Graduate Review

The 2 week vacation scheme at Taylor Wessing LLP, London was an extremely enjoyable insight into the world of commercial law. Undertaking 'real' work and engaging with lawyers from across the firm confirmed that a career in the legal sector is for me. I would have no hesitations in recommending to Taylor Wessing to anyone considering a career as a corporate solicitor.

The structure of the vacation scheme ensured that I felt welcomed to the team from the outset. I worked closely with my supervisor and 'trainee buddy' on a variety of different cases. All of my efforts, contributions and ideas were noted and everyone I met showed a genuine interest in me as a person.

There was a perfect balance between support and encouraging independence. I knew that I could always ask if I had any queries about any aspect of the work and I was given advice that helped my professional and personal development.

Given the sheer variety of tasks that I got involved with during the Taylor Wessing vacation scheme, my legal knowledge and commercial understanding developed enormously. The 'Focus On' sessions throughout the two weeks ensured that I was given a broad overview of the firms key practice areas.

The vacation scheme programme was very well planned and there was a perfect balance between social activities and law-based tasks. The scheme definitely worked better than other law vacation schemes I have completed this summer.

Everyone was extremely friendly and approachable. Commercial law firms are undoubtedly high-pressure environments but I never felt as though this dominated the atmosphere. Regardless of their seniority, the other lawyers dedicated a great deal of time to me and my development. I cannot recommend the Taylor Wessing vacation scheme enough - it was a truly enlightening and motivating experience.

It was evident that Taylor Wessing had invested a huge amount in their vacation scheme. The main aspect that stood out to me personally was the amount of contact we had with the recruitment team in the lead up to the scheme. We were given the chance to choose practice areas which were of particular interest to us and were given ample opportunities to engage with the other trainee lawyers at social events in the evening.

After having completed a vacation scheme at Taylor Wessing, I am now convinced that a career as a commercial lawyer is right for me. We were encouraged to find out as much as we could about all of the initiatives and events that the firm participates in. I shared an office with a Partner at the firm which gave me an invaluable insight into how lawyers interact with their clients and what they do on a day to day basis.

Taylor Wessing is an extremely innovative and modern firm and this was evident throughout the two weeks. All employees are encouraged to pursue their interests and are treated as people. The firm invited external speakers to talk about gender diversity which confirmed the firm's commitment to being at the forefront of social change within the legal sector.

As a result of my experiences at Taylor Wessing, I am now certain that I wish to pursue a legal career. I now know which areas of the law I am particularly interested in and the steps I must take to reach my goals. Each day there were a series of talks scheduled into the programme which have me ample opportunity to find out more about different practice areas.

I was paid £275 per week for the two week scheme which covered my travel expenses. The rate of pay for the Taylor Wessing vacation scheme is slightly lower than other law firms but this wasn't an issue for me. All travel expenses incurred while travelling to assessment days were paid by the firm.

Yes. This was highly encouraged and well incorporated into the vacation scheme structure. There were several day and evening events which allowed me to engage with other employees on a personal level and to find out more about their career path so far. I also arranged one-on-one meetings with employees who specialised in a particular practice area to expand my knowledge. Everyone always made time for me and ensured that I was given an accurate picture of their work and daily tasks.

The opportunities for networking were excellent. The firm arranged a formal dinner and several informal lunches throughout the scheme to allow the vacation scheme students to network with each other and the other employees of the firm. We also went out with the trainee lawyers in the evening too which was a great experience.

Yes. We were given the opportunity to get involved with several of the firm's pro bono activities which was an extremely insightful experience.

I would have no hesitations in recommending the Taylor Wessing vacation scheme to a friend who is interested in the commercial legal sector.