Vacation Student Review

I thought overall the placement was extremely well organised, well balanced and very insightful. The opportunity to experience different departments over the two weeks was useful and there were a number of creative ways talks were given e.g. lunch and learns, to avoid monotony. The people on the placement and at the office were friendly and welcoming.

Most of the time I felt valued by those around me, particularly with the work I was doing in the Insurance department. At times I felt I was asked to do tasks for the sake of keeping me busy, rather than there being any need but this was more down to the fact I was in a quiet department in my second week.

Throughout the placement I felt comfortable asking questions to people at all levels and stages. Both my supervisor and trainee buddy were always happy to help if need be as well as other members of the firm. When undertaking a group research task different departments were very forthcoming in allowing us to pick their brains.

I felt that I could have been given more things to do but there was an element of having to look for the work yourself if you want to do it. There was also a research project to do throughout the time and Grad Rec were happy to find you work if you were struggling (I don't think anyone struggled that much).

I was surprised at how much responsibility I was given in terms of the work I had to do which was great. Having the opportunity to undertake real trainee work was useful in gaining an insight into what type of work I'd be doing.

Some of the work I was asked to do I'd never done before and skills in drafting and research especially will be invaluable in the future.

The culture of the firm was fantastic. People were friendly and sociable throughout which made settling in very easy. The socials organised were great fun and original. We were taken on a pub stop Pedibus one evening, drinks on the first night and we had a meal at a nearby restaurant towards the end of the scheme.

The overall organisation of the scheme was superb. There were a variety of presentations and skills workshops (e.g. negotiation sessions) throughout both weeks and we were always well informed as to where to go and what we'd be doing. Grad Rec were great!

I felt the firm invested quite a lot of time in us in terms of taking time out to present to us on not only the different departments but also CSR and the marketing approach of the firm. We also had skills sessions which were attended by trainees and partners who would give advice and feedback which I found very useful.

I am very attracted to the prospect of working at CMS, based on the quality of work, with real strengths in Energy and Insurance, combined with a lively and friendly culture. There is a relaxed feel to the office despite the hard work and long hours that inevitably takes place at a law firm. My only concern would be retention rates at the end of my training contract.

Amongst the placement students there was not too much socialising outside of the office apart from on a Friday where we'd head off for drinks at a nearby bar. However everyone was very friendly and we'd regularly meet for lunch or a quick coffee break mid afternoon in the canteen.

London is very expensive, and student accomodation during the holidays is also quite expensive. Fortunately the money you receive for your two weeks easily covers this and travel costs.

There were some good bars nearby the office and its central location means it is just a short walk to plenty of pubs and bars.

The firm was excellent in terms of involving us in many different things outside of work. There were numerous CSR projects that we could participate in as well as sports teams with afternoon kick-abouts or more serious matches.