Vacation Scheme student Review

I absolutely loved my time at Taylor Wessing due to the work and the people I met there. My group of students were all incredibly nice and it felt like we gelled together from day one. Before we had even arrived we were invited to drinks and a quiz organised by the firm to get to know each other which was great. During my two weeks, I was lucky enough to get involved with everything, including talks from departments and pro-bono. It was an incredible experience but a fast learning curve which was sometimes daunting.

In both of my departments, the supervisors and trainees went out of their way to make me feel at home. From day one I was going to meetings and getting on with a variety of work which was really enjoyable. Everyone was always quick to ask how I was getting on and what my department was like which showed how much everyone cared about students.

During the first week, I was sitting in my supervisor's office so if I had any questions I could ask directly. However, in the second week I was in my own office most of the week and I felt much more independent. Both weeks were a contrast but I never felt like I was left to do my own thing. I always felt like I had a challenge but there was support if needed it.

The valuable insight I got into how academic law is put into practice will be invaluable. Although I did see a stark contrast between academic law and the advice that goes to clients. The firm gave me the opportunity to gain an understanding into how everyday business was done which was amazing. I am sure that it will be invaluable in my later practice areas.

Every day the students had an organised talk or event that we could go to. This allowed us all to catch up and see what the other departments were doing within the firm. Even when it was quieter we still managed to book an impromptu court visit which was very enjoyable. There were also 2 organised socials which gave quality time outside of work to get to know everyone.

The atmosphere at the firm is unique it is clearly focused on achieving its goals but everyone always finds moments to chat. The environment is very collaborative and it was great to see people working in a job which they loved. I don't think you can truly appreciate how different the firm is until you have worked there as it is full of very passionate people.

We were all tasked with giving a presentation at the end of the two weeks. As the topic was so broad it really helped build communication skills within our group. We often had to organise meetings outside of our work schedule and do lots of research on the topics. The hardest skill it taught me is timekeeping as everyone is always very busy so deadlines are crucial.

We had a talk from one of the partners and he was very open about what it might be like 10 years down the road. The firm was also very open about what numbers they were looking to take on and what their strategy was. All the supervisors explained what kind of roles trainees would do and I feel well prepared for the future.

The company has a unique culture which is unlike other law firms. Having been to other law firms I can say that TW is unique as it believes everything that goes into the marketing material. Everyone at the firm is very aware of the goals and what the future will hold for the firm which is reassuring.

As I was there for two weeks I feel that I have become much more knowledgeable on what goes on inside law firms. I now know what type of firm I want to work for and what type of work I would like to do. I also know that the people you work with are often the most important factor which people can forget.

I was paid for both weeks. The pay was very generous as I lived close to the office anyway. However, for those outside of London I did feel a little sorry for them as some did not make any money from their hard work as they had to spend it on accommodation instead.

We had a partners lunch that was very enjoyable and it gave a long opportunity to talk to senior members of the firm. There were also numerous drinks events which allowed for good networking with people inside and outside the firm.

I would absolutely recommend this vacation scheme to a friend. Although it is very competitive to get places, it really gives an amazing insight into a unique international law firm that is thinking about the future. As soon as you speak to someone from the firm you will be hooked I think.