Winter Vacation Scheme Participant Review

It was a very enjoyable insight into the working life of Shearman & Sterling. Everyone was very welcoming and accommodating which meant that it was easy to get lots from the experience. A combination of a great range of activities/presentations, lots of opportunities to learn, and a cohesive cohort resulted in an extremely positive week.

I felt extremely valued during my time; partners of the firm came into check my progress throughout the week and staff were more than happy to provide feedback on any work completed. Furthermore, the thoughtful planning of the week demonstrated that it was designed for us to get the most out of it.

Initial guidance was very helpful; tips as to how to get the most out of the experience of the week were provided and the graduate recruitment team were wonderful in assisting with any other queries. Mentors and supervisors were also provided for each participant and were excellent in their support. The welcoming nature of the firm meant that it was possible to ask anyone for further support or information on any task or area, which was very encouraging.

The skills developed and information received will undoubtedly help tremendously in my degree studies and in future employment pursuits. The scheme provided an informed and detailed view of the world of global commercial law and the tasks and activities therein. Being able to undertake work and read over work assisted in this, as well as providing the foundational skills for future work in the profession.

The vacation scheme was structured incredibly well: -presentations gave an informed perspective on key areas of the firm -socials were enjoyable and added to the collaborative atmosphere -supervisors and mentors were always thoughtful in providing work and acting as a source of encouragement to fit as much in the day as possible

The atmosphere was welcoming, collegiate and motivated. Although staff were very hard working, time was always made for vacation scheme participants which was really refreshing.

In additional to assistance from the great graduate recruitment team, the firm provided a supervisor and a trainee mentor who provided advice and guidance on work. While the short duration of the scheme meant that there was not a lot of specific training, small tasks and feedback were provided.

It was incredibly informative; everyone was very open and honest about all elements of working for Shearman & Sterling and the pressures and rewards inherent within that. Additionally, as you were there were opportunities to be independent, you could experience prioritising work and even stay late.

It was very helpful; I was impressed at the ability of everyone to remain so collected while under pressure and still make time for vacation scheme participants. The culture was refreshing and certainly made me want to go back for more.

Very valuable; the breadth of information and the experience was very useful.

The scheme was well paid.

The practice group I was placed in was very welcoming, meaning I could approach many employees and find convenient times to discuss their work and anything I could help with. We were also able to meet trainees at social events and a final networking event was put on for the whole firm.

Enjoyable and informative; it was very valuable meeting so many people.

I was able to discuss with trainees about the activities that employees can get involved with, including the pro bono work that Shearman & Sterling undertakes.

Without a doubt - a truly interesting, informative and enjoyable scheme!