Work Experience Review

Day one was an introduction to commercial law, and the different paths to a career in law. In the morning, we would learn about the different positions at Pinsent Masons and how they can be achieved. We had a small ice breaker, although I believe that a small group activity could liven up the atmosphere. We would receive small presentations each morning, and work in a real office environment later in the day until 5:30pm. In total, at the end of the week each person would have worked in 3 different departments. I feel like this could improve if each person worked in a different department every next day so every individual would get a proportion of the experience in each department. The week was enjoyable, and different content was covered in different department as well as new skills being developed. Many of the tasks involved research, reading through cases and picking out any issues, as well as being able to explore what it is actually like to work in commercial law.

I have learned about how the commercial law works and many of its sectors that I have not considered before. It most certainly improved my research skills as the information was not given to me in a simple manner where anyone could understand, all research was done independently to match my own personal level of understanding. My communication skills also developed as I was able to voice my own decisions and concepts of work given. I have also learned a variety of business - related words and have a bigger understanding of the commercial law.

I enjoyed the programme very much as the staff makes you feel very welcome, and treats you like a member of their own. I enjoyed expanding my commercial vocabulary and learned about how real business issues can be resolved and what the process is like.

I felt like a valued member of the team as the staff members treated me like one, however still providing the full support. All of my questions were answered fully and I felt like I could ask away with confidence. The work wasn't easy, however it was doable with research which developed my skills and understanding which gave me a taste of what it is like in the commercial and independent world.

The programme was very organised and ran smoothly. At no point during the programme I felt lost, and I knew I would get answers as well as support if I asked. The induction was extremely beneficial as it explained what Pinsent Masons was about and what career options there are. The timetable was structured very well and time management was almost perfect. Everyone knew where they were going and what they were doing at all times, and in case of confusion supervisors would always be there to help out. The only thing I would improve is the mock Tribunal, and give more time for extra planning as well as explaining each role individually.

I knew that if I had any concerns or questions, I was free to ask at any point during the programme. If in any case my supervisor was not there, I could always contact any of their colleagues or contact them through an email. Every task also included a set of instructions and sources from which help could be pulled out of in order to still give us our independence.

Again, at any point on the programme I could ask questions or reference my concerns. Full support was given, and questions were appreciated as well as answered professionally, and in a friendly manner.

Since the work experience programme lasted only a week, travel costs would be covered if necessary as stated in the regular emails I received. However, I chose to pay for my travel costs myself. I had no problem with arriving on time and found myself arriving half an hour early every day as Pinsent Masons is placed approximately 3 minutes outside of the train station I would get off at. £5 vouchers were provided every day for us to spend on our lunch which were more than enough. Free water, coffee, tea and snacks were also provided upon arrival.

This would not necessarily apply to the work experience programme I was doing as I am an A-level students however it is a great addition to my CV which would most certainly help me with applying for other work experience programmes, or part time jobs.

Yes

I would recommend this programme to a friend as it is great for anyone, not only those who are studying law. I am certain that this work experience programme would expand the views of an individual on the wide variety of law career paths, as it expanded mine. Before coming here, I had limited knowledge and was convinced that I wanted to pursue criminal law, however this week has opened my eyes and made me reconsider as I realised that many of the other departments in law are interesting and hi8ghly rewarding too.

I was notified of this offer on quite a short notice, less than a week before stating. Beforehand, I would apply through an organisation called the 'SMF' which help you find work experience programmes such as this one. My tip would be to be confident in yourself, and not to worry if you have any questions as there is no such thing as a silly question to ask. It most certainly benefits anyone, even those who are still not interested in law as it gives people an idea of what it is like in a real life setting - as well as develops many of your skills.