Summer Vacation Scheme Candidate Review

Across the scheme, there were several group projects. One involved a role-play simulation where team members had to meet several stakeholder demands simultaneously. Another involved a pitching exercise relating to innovation in the legal field. The scheme also had ample talks from several practise groups, ranging from Real Estate to Corporate and Banking, and more! Daily, we had the opportunity to meet people at several seniority levels from the firm.

As there were several projects across the week, I developed my skill of organisation and time management, prioritising several tasks(such as research-based ones) to ensure it's completion. The Summer Vacation scheme also consisted of several presentations. Through presenting my ideas, both individually and within a team, I learnt to be more articulate and confident in conveying my ideas.

Through the departmental talks, I had exposure to different departments. This included both contentious and transactional departments within the legal field. Subsequently, I appreciated the opportunity to differentiate the type of tasks, alongside skillsets, needed to thrive in different areas. It was also exciting to learn how trainee solicitors can work on several different tasks during their training contract, such as drafting documents in Corporate seats, or drafting witness statements and bundling in Litigation.

CMS was accomodating throughout the Vacation Scheme process. Prior to the scheme, every participant was sent merchandise to welcome us to the firm. This welcoming presence was felt during the scheme itself. Partners, Associates, Trainees and the Graduate Recruitment Team were very approachable and were helpful when asked questions, ranging from legal work at the firm, to the initiatives the firm pioneers, such as its D& initiatives. There were ample social catch-up sessions throughout.

I enjoyed partaking in various projects and especially valued the unique direct exposure to clients. I also enjoyed learning about the firm's sustainability practices, their D&I initiatives alongside the market-leading work CMS pioneers. This Vacation Scheme gave me an insight as to what it would be like as a Trainee Solicitor at CMS, and following this, I now have a greater understanding of what tasks and responsibilities the role entails of.

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Research the firm very well, as it is market-leading in several sectors, such as Real Estate, Employment, TMT and Corporate work. Also ensure that you familiarise yourself with the innovation levels CMS prides itself on, and how their innovation sets them apart in the legal field.