This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
Rating
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About You
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The Company
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Everything Else
- 1. To what extent did you enjoy the insight?
- 2. To what extent did you feel valued during your time at the company or firm?
- 3. How much guidance/support did you receive during the insight?
- 4. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and information you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
- 5. How well structured was the insight?
- 6. How was the general atmosphere during your insight?
- 7. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
- 8. To what extent did the insight help you to understand what it would be like to have a full time role with the company or firm?
- 9. How much did the insight help you in understanding the company culture?
- 10. How valuable was the content in helping you to decide on your future career path?
- 11. Were you paid or reimbursed adequately for this experience?
- 12. Were there opportunities for networking and meeting other employees of the company or firm?
- 13. How were the networking/ social event opportunities?
- 14. Did you find out about activities that employees can get involved in outside of work?
- 15. Would you recommend this insight to a friend?
About You
It was a great experience to see the day-to-day life of the firm. I feel I have became more commercially aware of how the legal transactions actually work in practice and although law school is great this was an invaluable experience to actually put the theory into practice. You also become involved in the firm and get to understand better their deals, client's objectives, business ethics and even just the general atmosphere of the particular office
I felt like my time spent on any task was appreciated and always followed by valuable feedback. My supervisor was also always making me aware if my drafts or documents I have help to prepare were sent onto the clients, which was great to see.
I had my trainee 'buddy' for any 'silly' questions and my supervisor for any queries that arose during my placement. I have met with both of them on daily basis and they were very supportive and helpful throughout the placement.
I feel like getting more practical skills can be only beneficial especially beyond the mere academic world as it has definitely increased my chances in any future employment opportunities. I think the skills whether gained from University and used during my placement or vice versa are transferable to a great extent and I definitely look forward to write my dissertation as I feel that the insight I have got into commercial transaction will allow me to submit more valuable piece of work with not only academic but also practical relevance.
The Company
The vacation placement took place over 3 weeks. We had a practice group presentations during the first two weeks where we were introduced to the other departments within the law firm. The rest of the day we have spent working within the practice group. Pinsent Masons also organised many social events where there were opportunities to get to know the people better even outside of the office.
The atmosphere was genuinely very friendly. It was a small office where people knew each other and even during very busy days everyone from partners to trainees and IT staff was very approachable and helpful. They were genuinely interested to get to know you and make the learning experience an interesting one.
We have been provided with IT training as well as Research and Library training. Furthermore, we were allowed to attend presentations that were held on the up to date law for the solicitors. Although the placement was only 3 weeks they tried to ensure we are getting the most out of it.
After spending 3 weeks with the firm I have a clear idea of what would be expected form me and what kind of work/life balance the firm can offer.
It was extremely helpful, you can hear countless presentations on one firm or another but actually being present in the firm and experiencing their daily routines is the best way to actually understand and have an idea of what the company is like.
I have confirmed myself with my career choice and gained further motivation to finish off my degree with the best possible qualification and pursue a job with an international law firm.
Everything Else
Appropriately.
Numerous. Besides events particularly organised for us as the placement students there were also the regular team-building activities for the actual employees of the firm to which we were invited along.
We have done a wide range of activities from lunches, after work drink to pizza making classes or transition extreme. It was a great variety to hang out with people from the office completely outside of work and do outdoors activities where everyone is very relaxed.
Yes, however, due to the fact that the placement was only for 3 weeks we did not get opportunity to become greatly involved.
Definitely, it was a first placement that I have ever done and either the company was the right fit for me or all of them are just as good. It just did not feel like work where you look at the clock every five minutes and wish to go home.
Details
Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)
Scotland
June 2015