Vacation Scheme Student Review

I have undertaken two placements with Shoosmiths and each time I really enjoyed my time there. I even joined a group of people going out for dinner and to the cinema one evening.

I was always made to feel welcome and part of the team from day one. I was given constructive advice on the work did and were always on hand for any support I needed

Rather than simply being given a task to do, I was explained why I was doing it, what the client wanted to achieve and how what I was doing fit in with the bigger picture of what they were doing for the client. I was given plenty of information and precdents if I needed it and someone was always available to ask if I ever got stuck.

There was always a good stream of work coming in. The team I was part of would ensure they keep an eye out for work that would be suitable for me to do. There were some times where I think I completed a task faster than they anticipated though.

I was given real life tasks with deadlines so the team would rely upon the work I would do.

I learnt a great deal about handling clients and the commercial nature of the decision they made. Just listening to someone on the telephone with a client gave me a good understanding as to the sort of relationship these people had built with their clients and why these clients keep coming back.

It was sometimes quiet but still a very friendly atmosphere

It was all seamless. I was informed where I needed to be on my first day and who I would be meeting. Prior to my first placement I was informed about some areas of law I should briefly brush up on as it will help me gain a better understanding of the work they want me to do. I was given material so I was able to properly document the work I have done throughout my time with the team.

I was given a brief amount of training in the systems the firm use. I spoke to a few people who said that the firm are great if you want training in any area. The teams and departments will do as much as possible to allow you to go on any training.

Very good. I have been offered a Training Contract following this placement.

I joined a small group to a restaurant for a meal before seeing a new movie that was released.

Reading and Nottingham are fairly average in terms of cost of living and socialising

There were plenty of bars and clubs as the offices are located in city centers.

There are often away days help by the departments and teams where they would go away to have some fun team building for the day. There are a few clubs run by other employees which people can join, e.g. running club.