Vacation Scheme Student Review

Day-to-day tasks involved typical trainee tasks such as taking attendance notes, research tasks and proofreading. I also sat in on a trial and took a transcript of what was said. In terms of interactions, I had daily contact with my supervisors and also scheduled calls with other people outside my department. The vacation scheme also entailed graduate recruitment sessions about Diversity & Inclusion initiatives and interview tips.

I have learnt new skills including confidence in tackling unfamiliar tasks and reaching out to people virtually. I have also learnt how to interact in a professional legal environment and how to manage my time effectively, as I needed to balance competing tasks. I have developed my legal research and drafting skills, as well as my attention to detail. I have also honed in my commercial awareness and ability to work in a fast-paced setting.

I found the business development side really interesting as I learnt how a law firm makes profit and attracts clients. It gave me a deeper insight into the myriad of roles within a law firm and how they contribute to the firm as a business. For example, diversity initiative coordinators are also important in attracting clients and employees, as they set the firm's corporate responsibility agenda.

The culture seemed very friendly and approachable. Everyone I have spoken to so far have been really helpful in sharing advice and career tips. It was a bit difficult to socialise in a virtual space, but the people I reached out to were responsive and happy to have a chat about the firm, their careers and other interests. The work/life balance was something that everyone seemed to appreciate at the firm.

I enjoyed the vacation scheme a lot. It gave me a much better insight into the firm from a practical and insider's perspective, as it allowed me the chance to talk to the people as peers. I also appreciated getting exposure to high-profile cases and challenging work, as this helped me develop my skills as a future lawyer.

Yes

I would advise future applicants to research the firm thoroughly, know its broader strategy, talk to as many people as you can from the firm to get a feel for what it is like to work there, know why you want to work there, ask yourself if you would fit into the culture, prepare for the interview as much as possible by using online resources like The Corporate Law Academy or Aspiring Solicitors.