Solicitor Review

My role as a work experience student involves attending the firm from 9:30am to 5:30pm. Each day of the week I am assigned a supervisor from a different part of the firm who sets me tasks and provides me with feedback to give an insight into the sort of work that is undertaken. I also attend presentation such as 'Entry to Law' and 'Litigation' to provide me with key information about my chosen career.

Yes I have developed by skills in research as a number of my daily tasks involved a certain level of research. I am now also familiar with Microsoft Outlooks. I enjoy meeting new people and I have developed my skills in engaging with people in a professional manner. Through some of the task e.g. case study tasks I have also had the opportunity to develop my analytical skills.

I enjoy the programme very much. I value the insight that I have gained into working at a corporate firm.

I feel very valued by Pinsent Masons. Initially I was very nervous about being a work experience student at the firm but from the moment I stepped into the office I felt welcomed by everybody. My supervisors were friendly and approachable and I never felt afraid to ask anyone for help if I was experiencing difficulty. All the trainees that I met were lovely and willing to answer all of my questions. While at Pinsent Masons I felt as though I was part of a family.

Before I started my work experience I received a detailed programmed detailing what I should expect. I was aware of what was going to happen each day which meant that I wasn't panicking about where to go and what to do. I had presentations which were executed excellently and I now feel very well informed. The tasks that I was given by supervisor were pre-prepared and I could see that a lot of work had gone into setting tasks. I also received an information booklet on commencing my work experience which I found very helpful. It included a timetable of all the week's events and which room I had to be in which was very useful.

My supervisor were all very helpful and I felt reassured that I could speak to anybody if I had any questions at all. Everyone was willing to take the time to speak to me and it is very much appreciated.

I was in contact with the work experience co-ordinator all week and I felt that the support provided was exceptional

I do not receive a salary and have to pay for my own transport to and from the firm's office.

Yes, although it was not a part of the programme to take part in extra-curricular activities I am aware that the range of activities on offer is excellent. From Netball to Rugby to Music groups, I am very happy to hear that Pinsent Masons offers a wide range of things for staff to get involved in.

Yes

I wanted to gain an insight into what it would be like to work for a corporate law firm and I felt that the experience was very useful before committing to a certain career path. I would recommend the work experience programme to all students considering a career in the law. The best way to know if it's for you is to experience it!

My advice would be to: 1) take time over completing the application. Work through it over a number of week and keep saving and coming back to it. 2) Do a little research into what the firm does so you have an idea of the sorts of things that people who read your application are looking for. 3)Ask lots of questions when you get here! If your application is successful and you have the opportunity to do work experience with Pinsent Masons, then make the most of the week by asking lots of questions. All the trainees were once in our position, so they're willing to help!