Vacation Scheme Review

The Vac Scheme was really well organised and engaging throughout, with a range of insights into the firm and networking events. I found it was a very valuable experience, from which I learnt a lot both vocationally and in terms of soft skills.

Everyone on the Vac scheme was really well looked after throughout, DLA Piper paid for all travel and accommodation expenses, supplied meals throughout and everyone within my office was very welcoming and friendly, they couldn't do enough to ensure all of the interns were enjoying their time in the office.

I received a lot of support throughout the process, from the Open Day prior to commencing my application, to my 'Buddy' who contacted me a few weeks prior to the start date to ask if I had any questions. Whilst in the office I had regular meetings with my line manager to discuss any queries and my progress.

I feel the experience helped my develop a strong sense of commercial awareness which is very useful in my current studies. The Vac Scheme also included a few sessions on interpersonal skills which are extremely useful for my studies and networking.

Very well structured, with well planned sessions throughout the three weeks such as networking events, presentations and video conferences. Slight lack of communication between London and regional offices in terms of timings etc, but nothing that wasn't very easily resolved.

The atmosphere was very friendly, I felt very welcomed at all the events and offices I attended. Whilst the office was formal, it was not intimidating and I always felt supported and able to ask for help when necessary. The trainees were also really enthusiastic, and involved us in as many activities as possible.

I felt really invested in as guest speakers were brought in throughout the three weeks from within and from outside the firm to help us grow our knowledge and skills, not just in regard to the firm but the law in general. DLA Piper are now supporting me through my GDL with tuition fees paid for and a maintenance grant, which has made a huge difference to enable me to dedicate more time to my studies.

I was given meaningful realistic tasks to do, which gave me an insight into the work trainees are asked to on a daily basis. Through a variety of talks I was able to fully understand the values of DLA Piper and how the employees practice these values.

I feel I understand the culture of DLA extremely well after the Vac Scheme due to the variety of information and examples we were given. The culture also formed a large part of our group task therefore required independent research to further understand it.

Very valuable, confirmed my interest in being a commercial solicitor.

All my travel expenses were paid for, and we were provided with free breakfast and lunch everyday, in addition whilst all the interns were in London in the first week an evening meal was sometimes provided and if not we were given a £20 food allowance. Whilst in London my hotel was paid for.

There were many opportunities to meet people across various departments and offices.

The opportunities were relaxed and sociable, everyone was very welcoming and eager to talk.

Yes and we were often asked to get involved.

Yes definitely, it was really well structured and everyone was really welcoming.