Vacation Scheme Review

I enjoyed it. There were a lot of assessments, which mean the scheme was pretty intense. However, I found the structure and content of the assessments interesting and engaging. The actual work shadowing was also enjoyable as both my supervisors were happy to help me out and were friendly.

To give a quick example - during my first, I was given a peice of work which ended up being sent out to the entire Tax and Funds team (after some light editing by my supervisor). My supervisor also organised a lunch at a restuarant during my first week with the rest of the department which went a long way in helping me feel like part of the team.

Between Grad Rec, my Trainee Buddy, other students, and my Supervisors, there was a lot of support available.

Since there are a number of assessed exercises during the scheme, it gave me a chance to develop my negotiation, teamwork, and presentation skills. The actual work during my seats probably won't be too helpful int he future didn't corporate law in practice is very differant to a law degree.

The whole scheme was completely seamless - Grad Rec did a fantastic job or organising job of socials, assessments, and practice area talks spread out over the two weeks. The way in which the scheme was organised was especially important since the Easter break meant the 2 week scheme had to be completed in 8 days as opposed to 10.

The overall atmosphere was focused and hard working, but also very friendly. There is an "open door" culture here. Since the office is relatively small, most people seemed to know each other.

As I mentioned earlier, I think the assessments helped develop skills which I hope will be useful in the future regardless of what I firm I end up at. There were a number of practice area talks which were helpful in giving me an insight into the work done at the firm.

Some of the work I was given in my seats was normally that given to new trainees, which helped me understand what it would be like starting at the firm. My Supervisors explained what they were currently working on which was also useful.

The scheme confirmed my desire to work at a firm like Weil.

The firm paid £400 a week for the 2 week scheme.

Between meeting people on socials, at the drinks event, in the office whilst working, during the assessments, and during the practice area talks, there were plenty of opportunities to network and meet people.

We went cocktail making and chocolate making with trainees from the firm. Both socials were a lot of fun!

We had a talk on diversity at the firm as a whole, which covered some of the pro bono work the lawyers here are involved with.

You need to be able to handle a certain amount of pressure when it comes to juggling your supervisor's work and preperation for the assessments on the scheme.