CMS Academy Participant Review

On a day-to-day basis, I was tasked with various jobs from my Supervisor and trainee buddy, ranging from managing client Dealrooms, preparing indexes, reviewing hard copy documents, drafting emails, analysing contractual clauses and research.

I was able to broaden my knowledge about Construction law more generally, the types of contracts normally used, the main challenges facing the industry, and also the key legislation shaping buildings are constructed and managed. In terms of skills, I was able to refine my time management skills, communication and resilience, often being asked to meet specific client deadlines.

CMS organised several roundtable Q&As with lawyers across various departments of the firm, providing an insight into how you're able to evolve throughout your career and the different types of roles certain lawyers plan within the firm (for example, generalists vs specialists).

The team itself was warm, approachable, and always on hand to answer any questions and lend support. Within the Vac scheme cohort itself, the atmosphere was less competitive and more supportive, helping to make the experience thoroughly enjoyable and affable.

I enjoyed the insight very much, as it's one thing to read about a firm's culture, and another matter altogether being able to live and breathe it for several weeks.

Yes

Firstly, be yourself. I would also recommend going to Insight days to find out more about the firm if possible, and applying for the Early Steps program. Both provide invaluable insights into the day to day life at the firm. Otherwise, it's worth reaching out to somebody currently at the firm on social media (e.g. LinkedIn) to ask some targeted questions to better understand the firm's culture.