Each day varied, but was a mixture of attending talks, speaking to current staff and trainees, preparing for a presentation, and doing work for the department in which you spent the week. There were also coffee socials throughout the day and two longer evening socials.
The week provided an insight into the skills needed to thrive at the firm. Above all, it helped to develop presentation skills, commerciality, and organisation.
The week provided a really good insight into the firm, particularly if you reached out to other trainees, associates, and partners for 1:1 meetings. There were also numerous talks about unique aspects of Simmons, such as its Solutions team and Responsible Business initiatives, which were especially useful for understanding the firm.
Everybody I encountered at Simmons was extremely welcoming and supportive. It feels like a firm that really values development, and where everybody takes time to answer questions and provide help where needed.
The week was extremely enjoyable: this wasn't only down to its organisation and the activities that we participated in, but also the firm culture and welcoming nature of everybody involved in the scheme.
Yes
I would say the main thing is to be well prepared: knowing the firm enables you to speak genuinely and convincingly about why you want to be there. Whilst capability is certainly important, I think there is a lot of emphasis placed on your attitude and openness to learning too.
Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)
Commercial Law
Central London and City
July 2021