Student Review

I thoroughly enjoyed the vacation scheme. I felt I learnt a lot about the firm and its practice areas. I really enjoyed getting the chance to speak to trainees and lawyers about a career in law and the type of work that they do. I felt very encouraged that everyone at the firm was very passionate about their work.

I felt very valued during my time on the vacation scheme. It was very clear from the networking and social events that everyone in the firm was genuinely interested in getting to know each of the vacation scheme students. I also think the fact that the number of vacation scheme students was relatively small ensured that everyone felt valued.

There was a strong support system in place. All vacation scheme students received a supervisor for each practice area we experienced and a second year trainee mentor. Everyone was unbelievably generous with their time and kept up communication throughout the two weeks to ensure we felt comfortable and guided through the process.

The morning presentations were highly informative on a career in commercial law and the work the firm actually does. I think this understanding equipped vacation scheme students moving forwards in their degrees and careers. The assessments also gave vacation scheme students an opportunity to develop their teamwork, presentation and written skills.

The vacation scheme was extremely well-structured. We received a timetable at the beginning of the two weeks. This clearly outlined all the events that would take place over the course of the vacation scheme including the assessments. We had presentations every morning giving us insight into the firm's different practice areas and Q&As into life as a trainee solicitor at the firm.

The atmosphere was supportive, personable and positive. The vacation scheme cohort was small enough so that nobody felt lost in the crowd. I was impressed by the way ample time was afforded to get know each vacation scheme student really well. It was clear that everyone at the firm felt very passionate about the work that they do and encouraging of the vacation scheme students' ambitions.

We had numerous presentations from graduate recruitment, trainees, associates and partners about the firm, the type of work the firm does and the firm's social events. We also were given a chance to ask detailed questions about the training contract and what it was like to be a trainee solicitor at Shearman.

The vacation scheme left a strong impression of the firm's culture. Everyone at the firm was extremely friendly and supportive throughout the two weeks. We were also given first-hand insight into the values of the firm and why these were so important. It was clear that the firm has a very positive working culture.

The content of the day was extremely valuable in helping vacation scheme students decide on their future career path. We were given the opportunity to experience what it was like to complete real work in two different practice areas under a supervisor as well as receive in-depth insight into the legal industry in general.

An event had been organised on most evenings of the vacation scheme. The events were very sociable and gave vacation scheme students the chance to interact with members of the firm in a fun setting. For example, one evening there was a culinary event where vacation scheme students and members of the firm were mixed into teams and taught to cook a three course meal.

All members of the firm were very forthcoming in advocating that there is a number and range of activities available to get in involved in outside of work. For example, the firm organises yoga at lunch times and there are a number of sports teams which compete with other firms across the city.

I would definitely recommend the vacation scheme at Shearman to a friend. I thoroughly enjoyed the two weeks: I felt I not only learnt a lot about Shearman and a career in commercial law but that I was also given a privileged opportunity to network with members of the firm.