Summer Vacation Scheme Review

I’ve gained so much from the placement in terms of skills and a better perspective on the legal profession as a whole. I have a better understanding of the typical day within a commercial law firm and recognise that this knowledge has only furthered my desire to join this field. I enjoy the fast paced nature of the office and the variety of work. Shoosmiths surprised me in that it really is as friendly as its reviews indicate!

I was able to take part with big projects and trusted to complete the work and find help if I needed it rather than having someone sitting over my shoulder the entire time.

My host was really helpful. She checked on me every few hours but allowed me to get on with my work which I really appreciated! She also answered all my questions about the firm, the legal profession in general and training questions on the LPC, seats etc.

I worked within the Real Estate department and although I had studided Land Law in the abstract, seeing it being in play in a 'real world' experience, made all the difference to my understanding. The majority of the skills I gained were more around professional skills and I feel these will help me in the future in my legal career.

The structure was really well thought out. I had time to work on actual tasks that others in the office were working on as well as being given some tasks from HR to work on during the week in any downtime I had. I also worked on a project throughout the week and my last day incorporated my presentation to the staff. The only thing I would suggest could be improved was the placement of my desk in relation to my host. I was across the other side of the office and therefore, was largely unaware of what she was working on for the week.

The atmosphere was busy, challenging and I enjoyed being part of a department that was so buzzing! I also attended some social events with members of the firm.

I was given feedback on each of my tasks which helped my understanding and altered my approach going forward. The feedback was well structured and clearly took some time to undertake.

I truly did feel like part of the team for that week. I would have gladly stayed longer and was really sad to leave

I feel that no matter how well you research a firm, you can never truly understand the culture until you actually experience it. Not only was the culture exactly as described on the website/social media sites, I found myself contributing and enjoying it considerably!

I was paid a good amount for the placement and given an expenses form to claim back any business expenses.

The office is split across two locations and I was able to freely go between the two, meeting and chatting to employees I wouldnt have met had I stayed at my desk.

Lunch with trainees and drinks with the office.

I found out about many events that were taking place in the future or ones that had just recently took place but unfortunately, there were none during my placement

Yes, the insight confirmed everything I wanted to know but was also invaluable in finding out whether I as an individual could fit into the type of culture and feel of the firm. I was happy that I did!