Vacation Placement Review

I extremely enjoyed my vacation scheme. It has been a real eye opener to a career in commer ial law and made me realise for sure that Pinsent Masons was the firm for me. I was given real work and therefore real responsibility. I got involved with a variety of tasks and developed so many skills. This has been an invaluable experience.

I felt very integrated in my department. I was given constant feedback which made me feel valued because it showed that my work was not being overlooked, that my supervisors had time for me and that my progress was important. Everyone was very approachable and friendly, regardless of their rank in seniority. I was able to meet people from various departments.

In terms of receiving feedback, i received feedback on every piece of work submitted. This was really good in terms of knowing where I stood and where there was room for improvement. Even if they couldn't send feedback straightaway, I always received it eventually. Feedback was always very constructive. I had a meeting each week with my supervisors to review my objectives. I was given the opportunity to do more work when, for example,when I wanted to improve on a particularly difficult task I had attempted. With regards to fulfilling the tasks I was given, everyone would readily help me with any queries I had. However, I wanted to be careful not to ask too many questions and display a level of independence. In fact, I very much enjoyed the fact that I was left to work independently, without being constantly checked upon but knowing that I could ask anyone for help if I needed any.

I have learned so many invaluable things during the placement. I have gained a real insight of life as a commercial lawyer. I have learned how to draft a number of legal documents and developed a lot of technical skills such as research, writing, proofreading. I have learned about time management and work/life balance. I have uncovered a strong sense of confidence about my abilities as a future lawyer. This will all help me go forward in pursuing a career in law and be successful at it.

The insight was very well structured, although I would have preferred the whole placement to take place at the chosen office, as opposed to all candidates going to the London office on Day 1. The practice group talks were well structured and well timed, and very insightful. There was a good number of social events.

Everyone was very laid back, in my department and generally. I noted how friendly colleagues were with each other and witnessed a lot of banter, which made the atmosphere very relaxed and enjoyable.

The practice group presentations were a great effort at sharing information about the firm, opportunities at the firm or in commercial law generally. Speakers were always willing to answer questions and engage in discussions. This showed their willingness to help us learn and develop. The objectives meetings with supervisors and the trainee buddy system greatly helped me in making the most of my experience. I found my trainee buddy especially very invested in me and my progress. She always trusted me with important tasks, giving me regular feedback while allowing me the freedom to work independently.

I was able to see for myself what it would be like to work at PM. I have seen and experienced how supportive the firm is of working parents, the number of lawyers using flexible working and the working culture at the firm. I spoke to many trainees and solicitors about their experience of the firm to learn more about what it is like to be employed by PM. By the end of my placement, I felt like I had a rather good idea of what it would be like to work at PM, and I liked it!

I feel like I knew a lot already about the company culture and vision while researching the firm to prepare for my vac scheme. However, i got a real insight of the firm's culture durng my time there. I got a real feel for the working culture through the networking events, unoffical lunches with other colleagues and training sessions. Particular to my departent, i learned about the company's focus on productivity rather than presenteeism, and it's acknowledgement that good work like balance produces more efficient employees.

This experience confirmed that I definitely want to become a commercial lawyer. It gave a a real insight into a career in commercial law, helped me acquire numerous new skills and helped me decide which firm I feel best suited for and vice versa.

I was paid £600 for the 2 weeks and was reimbursed travel expenses incured for travelling to London on the induction day.

Thee were many such events organised by the graduate recruitment team, definitely. However, very often there were actually few attendees, for example the Friday office drinks and the client secondmenf lunch with trainees. However, I would say that we were not restricted to these events to meet other employees as everyone is really friendly and approachable.

There was a good effort put into organising these events. Unfortunately, a partners' lunch clashed with my day at the tribunal so I couldn't attend, but I heard it was great. Also, as I am the primary carer for my child, i could not attend the out of hours socials, so I some of these were badly timed.

Yes, there were quite a few sporting activities although I wish there had been more pro bono or CSR events I could have bee involved with. But we did receive talks on the subject.

Definitely! I would recommend this insight to any propective lawyer. I was given real work, developed new skills, met passionate lawyers and learned a lot about the firm, I would most certainly recommend applying for this scheme!