Pathfinder Scheme Review

It was really enjoyable to say the least. The presentations were all highly relevant from members of the Linklaters community, and the firm ensured we were well catered throughout. Both seats were hugely rewarding (Tax and M&A), allowing me to solidify my interest in the areas, providing me with relevant and rewarding work.

We were all treated as part of the firm over the two days. At no point did I feel a sense of nervousness talking to members of graduate recruitment or the legal practices. They continuously checked up on us throughout the two days, ensuring we were comfortable in the environment, and made sure we felt welcome on both a formal and informal level.

The guidance was excellent over the two days. Through all the group tasks they gave the correct balance of independence to complete tasks (hence the lower star), and advice, which made us feel both welcomed and competent in Linklaters-style tasks. Equally, in the legal seats, I was briefed strongly in the tasks I would be completing, but was then given independence to complete the tasks themselves which was beneficial, as we then got specific feedback on those tasks from our associates.

It was really clearly structured two days. We were given a programme of the order of events which was stuck to, having talks as a group in the mornings followed by lunch, then our seats. In the first evening the social event was really rewarding, it allowed everyone to get to know each other better on an informal level, and to wind-down after the work we had down that day.

The atmosphere throughout was really enjoyable. Everything we did felt relevant to commercial law, and everyone attending, both students and associates, were social, making the event, while highly beneficial, also enjoyable throughout

The fact that we had the ability to complete work appropriate to future roles meant we had a degree of understanding of what we would be able to take part in as part of the firm. Having a one-on-one lunch with trainees also meant any questions about firm-life were answered and gave clarity on what working at the firm would be like.

After this experience, it really clarified how i'm interested in an advisory career path in law, and being able to experience the culture at Linklaters definitely gave a clear positive view on the sort of firm I would like to be a part of.