Vacation Scheme Review

Although virtual, there were numerous activities planned throughout the week; all of which were very enjoyable. Personally, I most enjoyed being able to take part in a real virtual client visit. It was admirable that CMS were able to organise this for 100+ participants, especially given the exceptional circumstances. Additionally, I had the opportunity to take part in a simulation activity, where, as a group, we had to manage the expectations for several stakeholders involved in the setting up of a hydro-electric power plant in south-east Asia.

Clearly a lot of time and effort went into planning the virtual Academy scheme. I felt valued knowing the lengths that CMS went to in ensuring the scheme ran smoothly, and re-inventing the scheme in a way that allowed all participants to experience a feel of the firm without physically being in the office. It was encouraging to see that CMS employees, from all levels of the firm, were involved in the scheme. Including talks from the executive partner and managing partner!

Given the circumstances and amount of people on the Academy scheme, I think CMS did a good of a providing us guidance/support on the virtual experience as they possibly could have done. The instructions given for all tasks were very clear from the outset. However, I think providing us with a supervisor each during the scheme could have really elevated this score. Although, throughout the scheme, there were still numerous opportunities to speak to employees of the firm.

I had graduated before the scheme, thus, that section of the question does not apply to me. However, regarding 'beyond', being able to conduct client visits (major clients as well), has provided me with confidence going forward, as I now know how to approach this if I am tasked with doing so once I have joined the firm. Several of the activities were group orientated, I think that illustrates how collaborative CMS is as a firm, and being able to further enhance those team working skills is always welcome.

The virtual experience was extremely well structured. Every Academy participant was provided with a 'handbook' beforehand; the handbook detailed the schedule and provided an insight into each participant. Each activity ran within the time scheduled and there were little, if any, virtual hiccups, such as losing connection. Each day had a 'wellbeing' session scheduled. These were really important to break up the day, which could be quite intense, and enable everyone to stay focused and ready to concentrate for the next activity in the itinerary.

Despite being virtual, the atmosphere of the scheme was still very welcoming and everyone I spoke to, whether a CMS employee or Academy participant, was extremely friendly. Every candidate was willing to learn and get involved, this really elevated the general atmosphere. Whilst there were some social activities, unfortunately, the virtual experience, in my opinion, cannot replicate the fun you would have on a physical scheme social. As someone who has done a physical and virtual vacation scheme, this is something that I noted.

The firm arranged numerous personal development activities, for example, we undertook an exercise on discovering and harnessing our personal strengths. This involved creating our own 'strengths shield'. I gained a better understanding of the strengths that I utilise the most and strengths that I should perhaps use more often. Being trusted by the firm to conduct visits with their clients demonstrated to me that CMS wants to help us develop and understand the commercial nature of the role at an early stage.

The virtual experience enabled me to gain a real insight into the business structure of the firm, as an EEIG, CMS has a different business model to most other firms and it was great to learn more about this. From interacting with employees at all levels of the firm, I was able to gain a better understanding of the role and what is expected of trainees at the firm. However, I would have liked to have been set at least a bit of legal work. Luckily, as I had undertaken previous vac schemes, I had an idea of the type of work a trainee would typically do.

The company culture was pervasive throughout every activity that I took part in. Everyone that I spoke to, from all levels of the firm, was friendly and willing to provide an insight into the firm. Many of the activities were very collaborative which mirrors the ethos of the firm. Being able to chat to the executive and managing partner was also a great indicator for me that the firm genuinely wants us to succeed and get to know us at an early stage.

I already knew that commercial law was the career path that I wanted to follow, however, I felt that this experience really cemented to me that this is the correct path. As soon as I attended the assessment centre, I felt that CMS was a firm where I fitted in and could see myself at; the virtual Academy positively enhanced this view. This is why attending vacation schemes are imperative. I was ecstatic to receive a training contract offer from the firm, and i cannot wait to start!

Numerous opportunities to virtually meet employees at all levels of the firm.

The opportunities were great to get involved in. I would have liked them to have lasted longer.