First year insight Review

I loved this insight day at HSF because I got the opportunity to do things I haven’t done at different law firms, such as participate in a mock M and A transaction deal. My work shadowing trainee was also really lovely and sitting in meetings was very insightful into the firm.

I felt valued as there were loads of different trainees to talk to at the firm during networking lunches and a social after the first day. I liked the work shadowing element as it allowed for a personal insight into the work of a trainee at the firm which was good to see.

Especially with the work shadowing element I felt like I could ask any question judgement free and get a response that was honest and open. Also, the talks such as on interviews were very helpful for the future. The graduate recruitment team was always there meaning I had a port of call if I had questions.

The mock M+A deal and negotiation was very useful as it was something I had never done before that showed an active part of life as an associate or partner. It is completely different to anything I have ever done at university in my degree, and wholly relevant for interviews.

There was a timetable that was stuck to well, that allowed the firm to fit in as much as they could within two days - the course was very busy but allowed us to best see everything that was going on at the firm. Potentially, the scheme could be widened to a 3 day course.

I really like the general atmosphere at the firm and everyone I met was super friendly, which I really appreciated. I definitely feel like the culture of the firm was one of the most friendly I have been to. Everyone was willing to answer any questions I had during the scheme.

There was a work shadowing session that allowed me to fully see into the life of a trainee, who I stayed with for about 4 hours. This meant I met people within that particular team (corporate group 4 energy) and also had the chance to attend 2 internal meetings in this time.

With a variety of work shadowing, social events allowing me to chat to trainees, and the talks highlighting what Herbert Smith Freehills prioritises, such as their pro bono work, I felt that I got a very well rounded understanding of the company culture and am looking forward to returning there in the future.

The company has said that they will reimburse our travel costs up to £100. They also provided a hotel for the night meaning that I did not have to do a long commute home, that was about 10 minutes walking distance from the firm, meaning it was very accessible too.

The networking event was amazing, as it was an after work social at a rooftop bar. There was a good selection of drinks, and there was the right amount of partners who took the time to speak to us, without it being overly formal or investigatory. There were also networking lunches.

I would definitely recommend this insight to a friend for anyone who was interested in commercial law or the firm. It gave the right amount of insight into what lawyers do at the firm and I had a really fun experience. This is the right insight scheme for anyone considering commercial law.