Vacation Scheme Student Review

I thoroughly enjoyed the Vacation Scheme at CMS Cameron McKenna. It was a great chance to get a real insight into what it would be like to complete a training contract at the firm and there was a lot of exposure to a range of departments which made the experience very comprehensive.

I felt incredibly valued throughout the entire process. Graduate Recruitment were incredibly welcoming on the first day and knew all of us individually. I was also very warmly welcomed into my department with people often offering to help me out if I had any queries throughout the process.

There was a great deal of guidance and support throughout the entire scheme. Graduate Recruitment were always on hand to answer any questions or queries. We also each had our own Buddy and Supervisor who offered guidance during the two weeks. I also found that the rest of the department I sat in were more than happy to offer me guidance and support on particular pieces of work where I needed it.

The skills developed and the information received I found very useful for career progression. We had one session in particular based on presentation skills which was useful for the placement itself, as well as useful for your studies and opportunities during a training contract where you might need to present.

The Vacation Scheme was incredibly well structured. We were given a detailed timetable on the first day of what would be happening throughout the two weeks. This meant that we knew when the department presentations, socials and assessments were scheduled and this helped when organising time. The structure was also very full and we were able to hear presentations from a range of departments within the firm, as well as from CSR.

The atmosphere was fantastic. Every person that I came across in my department was incredibly friendly and enthusiastic about helping me out. All the Vacation Schemers were excited to be there and we all got on incredibly well, especially during the socials which were great opportunities to get to know one another.

It felt like the firm had invested a lot into our personal training and development. The two weeks were incredibly full and we were able to engage with a number of departments in the firm through a range of presentations and workshops. It was clear that the firm wanted us to gain valuable experiences from it.

It was a good insight into what it would be like to have a full time role with CMS Cameron McKenna. I was given real pieces of work to complete, and was able to attend department meetings and client events, which enabled me to experience what wit would be like to have a full time role with the firm.

A great deal. I found out a lot about the company culture just by spending time there and getting to know the people, but also through the department presentations and talking to people at the firm about the recent combination with Dundas & Wilson etc. to see how the firm is developing.

It was valuable for me as it gave me a broader insight into what it would be like to work at CMS Cameron McKenna.

There were lots of opportunities to meet with trainees at the firm in both a professional and a social environment. We also had presentations from newly qualified lawyers as well as partners and were able to chat with them. There were also chances to attend department meetings and client events which were a good chance to network.

The social events with the other Vacation Schemers were a lot of fun. We had a cocktail making class on the second night of the Scheme which gave us a chance to get to know one another early on, and a meal out in the second week. Trainees and Graduate Recruitment also came along to both events which made it a good chance to socialise with a range of people.

Yes, we were given a presentation specifically on CSR at CMS Cameron McKenna which was a good chance to see what goes on outside of work, and we also had the opportunity to get involved with some CSR work. We were also told about other things that go on outside of work, including the CMS Football World Cup and the CMS Cameron McKenna band!

I would recommend this Vacation Scheme to a friend. It was a great experience that gives you an insight into all aspects of the firm.