Vacation Scheme Student Review

I really enjoyed the insight (vacation scheme) as a whole. The structure of the scheme was beneficial in understanding the culture of the firm. The first week of the scheme was filled with various presentations and insight sessions, the second and third week were spent in two separate departments. Through out the scheme various events and socials were also organised assisting in the understanding of the culture of the firm.

During the first day we had a presentation followed by a Q&A session led by the Global co-CEO of the firm. This and other presentations with senior people at the firm also demonstrated the value placed on the vacation scheme students. Whilst in the departments, the work undertook was trainee-level work and subsequently contributions felt valued.

Before the scheme we were put in touch with 'trainee buddies' to address any concerns we may have. Our 'trainee buddies' and the trainees in general also gave us various guidance on the scheme. In regards to the departmental work, and presentation assessments, fee earners were very willing to provide guidance when asked.

The vacation scheme was a great insight into a global law firm and the practical application of the law above a law degree. Partners were also willing to assist, and make introductions to other people in the firm to assist with various relevant essays that I was currently working on.

The insight was very well structured with a detailed vacation scheme handbook provided to us on the first day. This included relevant times and locations and names of the fee earners for all sessions which were being conducted. The structure and its implementation was very well thought out.

The general atmosphere of the scheme was friendly and fun. The initial week allowed for various networking opportunities with people in the firm and amongst the vacation scheme. The graduate recruitment team also created played a huge part in the general atmosphere on the scheme.

The investment into the vacation scheme participants were quite substantial. There were various one on one networking opportunities in regards to personal development with Global Heads, partners and associates whilst in departments. There were also various professional skills training sessions which were beneficial.

The departmental work gave a good insight in to what a full time role with the firm would look like. Whilst limited to a three week period, the insight demonstrated the nature of the work undertaken and the structure of the teams. There were also insights into what the future of the firm entails which also provided insight into what a role in the firm would be like in the next two years.

Whilst obtaining a glimpse in to the overall culture of the firm, this was somewhat limited to the departments we were placed in and the work which was being undertook at the time. Nevertheless, the general feedback from vacation scheme students in the departments were positive and outside departmental work socials and networking events amongst other events, gave a great insight into the firm culture.

The content of the scheme was very helpful in providing a look at the nature of a global corporate law firm, and how these law firms can be distinguished. The length of the scheme was also assisted this insight. Overall the experience solidified my decision in regards to my future career path.

We were paid £325 p/w.

Apart from the various networking events already discussed, there were various opportunities to network around the firm yourself. When I first arrived at the department, I was introduced to the team that I would be working with and given various opportunities to network through out the time with that department. This was replicated with the second department too.

We told about various activities which were conducted outside of work including boxing, football and basketball to name a few.

I would recommend this scheme to anybody looking to work at a global law firm.