Winter Vacation Scheme Review

I thoroughly enjoyed the winter vacation scheme with Shearman & Sterling. The scheme was excellently organised, with a mix of department presentations, socials and real work. I felt at ease very quickly, as everyone was friendly and approachable. The other vac schemers were great fun too which was a bonus.

I was fortunate to be given real and purposeful work from the start. I truly felt that my contribution was valued and that my viewpoint on certain tasks was appreciated. Associates took the time to explain technicalities which I had never come across before and by the end of the week I felt like I was part of the team rather than a burden.

As expected of a career in law, certain tasks were challenging and I was faced with new concepts. I was cautious to try and find the balance of taking initiative and asking for help. I think the firm encourages self-learning and personal development but in a supportive and collaborative environment. There was never a time where I felt I couldn't ask for help. I was able to get as much guidance as I needed.

The department talks were a great insight into the type of work each area does. It was interesting to learn of the roles of a trainee in each practice area and importantly how these differ in each department.

There was an effective balance of department presentations, socials and time allocated to real work. It was quite an intense timetable and I was very busy throughout the week but it was a very enjoyable experience nonetheless.

It was great to be surrounded by like-minded individuals. Whilst it was an intense week, it was also quite relaxed. The socials were great fun to get to know people and network.

It was clear that the firm invested a lot of time, money and effort into the scheme and I felt very well supported throughout the week. The graduate recruitment team was very helpful in introducing you to other areas of the firm which you had demonstrated an interest in but weren't officially assigned with during the scheme.

Very much so. I was very busy throughout the week and had to manage my time effectively between two main work projects, whilst attending morning presentations and evening socials. We also had several opportunities to chat to trainees which helped to give a clearer picture of the role of a trainee at Shearman & Sterling.

By sharing an office with an associate (your supervisor for the week) you got to see how the daily work was conducted within Shearman & Sterling's office environment. It is very much team orientated and everyone is supportive of each other. There is a real sense that everyone is working to the same goal.

Extremely valuable. It definitely confirmed this was the right career path for me, in terms of my skill set, my genuine interest in the dynamics of the commercial world and my fundamental career aspirations.

There were plenty of networking opportunities and social events throughout the week, which allowed you to meet people from all areas of the firm in different settings.

Very enjoyable and diverse. The events ranged from, to use a few examples, a Q&A lunch with trainees, to ice skating, and also a LGBT evening event too. This particular event allowed you to see the firm's real commitment to diversity.

Yes. There were several occasions where you could quiz trainees on their lifestyles and what activities they get up to outside of work. For example there is netball on Monday which some of the firm employees attend.

Absolutely! For all the reasons above.