Vacation scheme student Review

I really enjoyed the mix of practice-related, every-day work and trainings to give us a better impression of what life at HSF is like.

I received good feedback and also appreciate that my supervisors did not just comment on what I had done well, but also how I could improve what I had already done. This showed me that the people I had worked with critically assessed my work and put some thought into how I could do better in the future.

It was a balanced mix of individual research and cooperative work which meant that I did not constantly have someone looking over my shoulder. Although a bit daunting at first, this really helped me to become more confident within a few days. I also never felt completely lost, since HSF had a open door policy and there was always someone I could ask for advice.

I received a valuable feedback on how to improve my writing style with respect to legal reports. Since I am currently studying the GDL, this knowledge will certainly come in handy.

The organisation was impeccable. On the first day, we received a schedule for the two week scheme.

Professional but relaxed at the same time.

HSF organised quite a lot in the two weeks, and I can confidently say that I was never bored. From negotiation trainings, to court visits, to pro bono work, the firm had tried to incorporate pretty much any aspect of legal life and made sure that we saw a bit of everything while there.

Since the scheme was only two weeks long, it is not possible to be one hundred percent sure what a full time role would be like, but talking to current trainees, associates and partners helped to create a more complete picture of what working at HSF is like.

I didn't think I would say this before the scheme, but the two weeks made a huge impact in understanding the firm's culture. When reading about different firms on their websites, it seems as if they are all the same and that their values overlap - which true to a certain extent, I suppose. However, it is the social aspect and the people that make up a large part of the firm's culture, and it is this part that one cannot get to know by reading a brochure.

The scheme congirmed my decision to work as a lawyer rather than influence my decision to go in that direction.

The reimbursement was good and higher than at many other firms.

Yes, we were invited to many meetings and partner drinks.

Because I participated in the winter vacation scheme, the wee a lot of opportunities because of all the Christmas parties that were organised. On top of that HR had also planned additional gatherings, so there were ample opportunities to talk and mingle.

Yes, the yoga classes and music lessons that are held in the office appealed to me in particular.

Definitely!!