Vacation Scheme Student Review

The scheme combined events to increase our understanding of the firm and the legal profession, skill-based events to boost our legal research and drafting, and work given to us by our supervisors. We were also given trainee buddies and encouraged to meet others at the firm for regular coffees to better understand what it would be like to work there.

I have developed a host of skills during my time on the scheme including drafting, attention to detail, proofreading, and organisation.

It was eye opening to see the way that the firm functioned and to be a part of it, if only for a short period of time. I also expanded my understanding of the roles of trainees and paralegals which, as a non-law student, I did not have a good prior knowledge of.

The general atmosphere during the scheme was extremely friendly and open. Everyone was very willing to go for coffees and answer any questions that you might have. The trainees buddies were also lovely in serving as an additional point of contact during the scheme.

I very much enjoyed the scheme and the insight that it gave me into the firm. I think that it provided a better understanding of what the work would be like while providing ample opportunities to meet people from differing levels of seniority and getting to know the people around you, both those at the firm and others on the vacation scheme.

Yes

I would advise others who want to apply to Herbert Smith Freehills to do your research on the firm and try to understand the way that it functions and what values are important to it. I think preparation is key, both in submitting the written application online and in attending the assessment centre in person. Also, relax and be yourself when in interviews and on the vacation scheme, they want to know more about you as a person as well as how competent you are.