Summer Placement Scheme Review

I enjoyed the insight the scheme provided me to the type of work being undertaken by different departments. During the scheme, we have scheduled 'practice overviews' of the firm's key departments. Those mini-lectures added value as they enabled to get to know more departments than the two we were placed in.

I felt valued during my vacation scheme. I was learning more about the firm by assisting trainees in their day-to-day tasks and conducting those tasks. I was being given "live-work" which provided me with an opportunity to learn on the job. I felt valued as my work was discussed with my supervisors which provided me with an understanding of the role of the tasks.

My supervisor and each team member were always ready and happy to help me if I required assistance. They always tried to provide me with as much background to the case as possible so that the task will be easier for me. The timeframes and deadlines were always expressed in a clear manner.

I found the scheme extremely useful and valuable for the purpose of my future studies. Practice overviews and the time in departments have enhanced my knowledge of specific practice areas and laws. I gained a practical knowledge regarding different legal procedures, filings, documents and practices. That knowledge equips me well for further studies and practice.

We were given a timetable at the beginning which provided us with a good overview of what to expect. Also at the start of the scheme, we received details of the assessment. What could have been improved is ensuring that details of speakers during the practice overviews are disclosed beforehand as well.

The general atmosphere during my vacation scheme was very good. Everyone was really approachable and friendly - people were genuinely interested in my past experiences and who I am as an indvidual. Even though we had assessments during the second week of the scheme, there was no competition between other interns.

I feel that the firm valued my personal development and training. During my scheme, I was invited to training which gave me a detailed knowledge of a situation that the firm's clients may be facing. I was also provided with varied work, which enabled me to develop a variety of skills.

I found the summer placement scheme extremely useful and crucial to understanding the role of a trainee solicitor in a firm. By observing what trainees are doing in different departments, I have seen the type of work undertaken, level of responsibility that is being given and ways of working under different managing styles.

I found the summer placement scheme really useful and the key to understanding the company culture. Everyone was very friendly and approachable in day-to-day situations. We were also attending socials with trainees that will enable us to understand the firm's culture better. On the last day of the scheme, we were also invited to the firm's summer party.

By being involved in a variety of tasks during the scheme, I was able to critically assess what I enjoy and what skill set I need to work on and further enhance. Attending practice overviews and sitting in two different departments confirmed my working priorities and what is a desired career path for me.

I was paid for the two weeks I spent with the firm.

Yes, during the two weeks scheme there was a plethora of opportunities to meet other employees and network with them. On the first and last day, we had lunch with trainees, HR and graduate partners. Every other day, we had practice overviews with different employees which were an amazing opportunity to ask any questions and network.

Social and networking opportunities were very good. As summer placement schemes students, we have two socials organised by trainees - pizza making and bowling. On the last day of our scheme, we were also invited to the office's summer party that was attended by the majority of employees of the firm.

Yes, during the two weeks with the firm, I found out about the out-of-work activities that employees can get involved in. My supervising trainee provided me with relevant information and her experience with different committees. I believe, however, that session about out-of-work activities and corporate responsibility would have been useful to enhance my knowledge.

Yes, I would definitely recommend the summer placement scheme to a friend! I believe the scheme provided me with a valuable opportunity of getting to know the firm's practice areas and industries that it specialises in. There were also socialising and networking opportunities and everyone was really approachable which made my time with the firm even better.