Vacation Scheme Review

Every day, we were given a mixture of individual and group tasks to complete based on the different ESG issues (environmental, social, governance). Participants had the unique opportunity to speak to the chief executive of the firm in a small, informal forum. As well as this, each day we received a talk from the practice head of each of the firms practice groups. At the end of this scheme, we were given a session on how to prepare for an upcoming training contract assessment centre.

This game was amazing for developing skills which would be essential for a trainee, because we were given very typical trainee tasks by the practice group leaders. During the presentation task, this was a fantastic opportunity to not only develop oral communication skills, but also to develop teamwork skills and time management as we had to prepare a presentation together beforehand with a limited amount of time. As well as this, these tasks gave us industry specific skills, for example, due diligence.

This scheme was amazing for understanding more about the business because we had so much exposure and direct contact with the leaders of the firm (e.g. chief executive, all of the practice groups leaders). This was a great opportunity to ask about the strategies of the firm because the group asking was so small so all of our questions were answered. Speaking to trainees also was a good chance to learn about the role of a trainee more candidly.

The company culture and general atmosphere seemed really friendly. There didn't seem to be a hierarchal structure which made it really easy to ask the business leaders questions. There was never a feeling that a question was too basic or simple to ask a partner which was really nice. During the social, this was a good chance to see what the lawyers were like in a more casual setting, and how trainees would talk to each other outside of formal meetings/communication.

I really enjoyed this scheme. Graduate recruitment, the partners, the associates and the trainees were all incredibly friendly and it was a good environment to learn more about the firm. Additionally speaking to the different professional networks made me feel very welcomed. The ESG focus was my favourite part as I had not seen this approach to a vacation scheme before and I really gained an in-depth understanding of ESG and how law firms look at client problems through the lenses of ESG issues.

Yes

When applying to the Gowling WLG, research is such an important part and will help anyone trying. The firm, in my experience, was slightly harder to research compared to other firms so I think an applicant would benefit greatly from going to events with Gowling before they apply, rather than basing their application on research from the internet. Direct contact with the firm is what will differentiate the research points you bring up in your application, compared to other people.