First Year Insight Scheme Review

The programme offered such a wide range of information, not only on the DLA Piper itself, but application advice, and interactive activities to help develop our legal skills. I felt very well looked after throughout the whole programme and the relaxed and friendly atmosphere made me feel extremely at ease

Although the group was made to feel extremely welcome during our time at DLA Piper, as most of the programme was spent listening to talks and receiving advice, there wasn’t much valid contribution to be made to the company during my time spent there as we did not observe or assist actual legal work during the scheme.

There was an abundance of guidance and support available during the scheme, not only academic (with trainee panels and CV workshops) but also general support during our stay in London due to the hotel accommodation and meals provided. Everything in relation to this was well explained and easy to understand.

The skills I have obtained on this first year programme will greatly help me in the future, particularly when it comes to applying for the vacation scheme at the firm. Throughout the programme there were many different talks that offered a vast amount of information on the firm and what makes its special.

The programme was extremely well structured, with a well thought-out and full schedule. There could have been slightly more variety as there were multiple talks over the three days that were relatively similar and there were times when the schedule would over run. However every activity through the scheme was insightful.

The general atmosphere at DLA Piper was extremely friendly, a quality that was shared from graduate recruitment, to trainees, to partners. Everyone was very eager to help in any way and were very appreciative of questions. I was very impressive to see that multiples partners were willing to spend a huge amount of time talking to us about the firm as well.

Due the vast amount of talks and activities to improve my CV, application and general legal skills, I would think that DLA Piper invested a great deal into my personal development. Given the fact all expenses were paid for if you didn't live in London, the firm invested greatly financially also.

Although there was a lot of information given to me about the firm by trainee and partner talks, the fact that I didn’t get see what the day to day life of a solicitor at DLA Piper actually looks like first-hand, I don’t think I fully got to understand the daily running of a firm such as this.

Due to the general attitudes of graduate recruitment, trainees, and partners being extremely friendly and inclusive - I was able to fully understand the general atmosphere of working at the firm. There were also a number of talks on policies very important to DLA Piper such as diversity and pro bono, again suggesting the positive culture.

For those who did not live in London, hotel accommodation was provided for the duration of the programme. The hotel was relatively close to the office and tube station and was very nice. Breakfast, lunch and snacks were provided at the office and we were reimbursed for the cost of dinner.