Vacation Scheme Review

I really enjoyed the vacation scheme. The whole timetable was varied, with a good mix of real work, introductory talks, socials and networking. The firm are really good at making you feel relaxed and giving the right level of support throughout.

I do feel as though I was valued throughout my time on the vacation scheme. I think this was shown not only through the personal and financial investment made throughout the firm to make the scheme a success (which I think it was!) I think this was also shown through everyone's willingness to talk about the firm, or answer any questions we had, however insignificant they may have been.

At no point did I feel like I didn't have a port of call to turn to if I had a pressing question. The supervisor and mentor system is really effective in creating an immediate support framework for the vacation scheme participants.

In terms of skills, I think the last two weeks have helped me to hone my research capabilities and attention-to-detail. I think another important skill is learning to approach new situations and deal with new topics in an effective way.

On the whole, the vacation scheme was incredibly structured, with introductory talks often taking place in the morning and time in our seats in the afternoon. Understandably, the time spent in our groups wasn't structured and we had a lot more freedom to organize our time.

The general atmosphere was very relaxed but professional. Everyone that I met at Shearman was the perfect combination of friendly and approachable, but focused and driven.

The insight was vital in my understanding of the company culture.

There were constant opportunities for networking with other Shearman employees, whether we were in our seat, having Q&A sessions or on social events.

The networking and social opportunities were excellent and involved two supervisor lunches, a dinner at Duck and Waffle, a group cooking exercise and vacation scheme drinks.

Yes, I learnt about the various sporting teams (netball, softball, football and rugby), classes (yoga in the office) and social events (Christmas and Summer parties) that go on throughout the year. There were also opportunities to join in with the training sessions - my only regret is not bringing any kit!

I would recommend this vacation scheme to anyone who is interested in gaining a greater insight into life at Shearman, a career in an American law firm, or just a career in law in general.