Vacation scheme student

I thoroughly enjoyed the vacation scheme as it was insightful, challenging and rewarding. There was a good mix of work and social activities.

I really felt that I was doing useful tasks and the supervisors went to a lot of effort to explain cases and points of the law. The firm invested a lot into us over the three weeks and so, each student felt valued.

There was a lot of guidance and support. The HR team were always on hand to help and each student was assigned a supervisor each week who really took care of you.

The three weeks really helped me to understand the practical application of the law in a more commercial context and I developed skills which will help throughout my career. We were given real tasks, real work on real cases and had to find solutions.

The vacation scheme was exceptionally well structured. There was a timetable given on the first day and it was followed perfectly. There was a great mix of networking events, Q&A sessions, skills sessions, work experience and then social events.

Everyone in Ashurst was extremely helpful and approachable. They made me feel welcome and valued. The atmosphere amongst vacation scheme students was extremely friendly and fun thanks to the many organised social events. These events allowed us to get to know each other and the current trainees in a less formal environment.

There were talks on the IT system, pro bono, diversity and a talk about how to sell yourself.

By getting to sit in three different seats and by being able to speak to as many people as possible, I feel that the scheme gave me a good understanding of what it is like to have a full time role in Ashurst.

Being in the firm for 3 weeks meant that I could really understand the culture. We got to go to meetings, have a dinner with the partners and socialise with the trainees. All of these things meant that we got a well-rounded view of the firm and its culture.

It was crucial. I knew after the three weeks that I wanted to work in commercial law and specifically with Ashurst.

We were given £300 per week.

There were many opportunities - department talks, networking lunches, seat rotation, dinner with the partners, nights out with the trainees.

They were quite relaxed and informal. The networking events were all interesting and the partners and associates were approachable and friendly. The social events included bowling, a cookery class, going to the top of the Shard and a final dinner and night out. They were really enjoyable and a great opportunity to bond with fellow vacation scheme students and to get to know the current trainees.

There was a talk on the numerous activities and there was the annual cricket match when we were there which some students even took part in.

Absolutely.