Work Experience Review

During the week we followed a structured programme. In the morning and after lunch we were given an hour long presentation on the different areas of law offered in that particular office by trainee solicitors and an associate, as well as the opportunity to ask questions. The remaining time was spent in our practice groups - we were each assigned to a department and there we were given work to do by our supervisors - the trainee solicitors. We also visited court on the last day, and had a business exercise mid-week.

Yes. I have learnt the importance of being able to multi-task, and time management. I have also learnt how vital team work is in working in a law firm. I was often out of my comfort zone - meeting new people, asking questions and participating in a group exercise all helped me to gain confidence. We were given presentations by lots of different people so I was able to see what techniques the presenter used, and which were the most effective and engaging to the listener. I was able to use these new skills to help me give my own presentation at the end of the week,and I was a lot more relaxed as well when presenting and was able to engage more with the listener.

I thoroughly enjoyed the week. I thought it was absolutely fantastic - I learnt so much, and altogether it was an invaluable experience, and an extraordinary insight into what it's really like to be a lawyer, and to work in a law firm. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, and really willing to answer questions. I could not have asked for a more enjoyable, challenging or insightful week.

Everyone was so friendly and welcoming that I soon felt like I was part of the Pinsent Masons' team. Employees in all stages of their legal careers took time to get to know me and say hello, this went from trainee solicitors to partners. Everyone was always willing to answer questions and be helpful.

I thought that it was an extremely well structured, organised and thoroughly thought-out programme, therefore I really enjoyed it. We were always busy, and everything that we did was useful, informative and challenging. Every aspect, whether it was presentations, visits to court, working in practice groups or business exercises, showed me something different about law, working in a law firm or being a solicitor, and part and person involved in any activity seemed to be completely dedicated to helping us get the most out of our week and learn the most we could.

The supervisors (a trainee solicitor) are always happy to answer any of your questions or help you if you have a problem, or indeed anyone. For each task that you do, your supervisor will go over it with you at the start to make sure you understand everything, and instructions are always given.

As we were on work experience we did not have an employer. However, everyone, whether they were a solicitor or an IT specialist, was always happy to answer any questions or help you solve a problem if you had one. As you were in an office environment there was always someone around to ask if you were ever in need of a hand.

The week's work experience was free for us, and we were not paid. On the first day we were given a complimentary lunch, however for the rest of the week we had the option to provide our own or go to a nearby cafe and buy something, however in terms of the location, bringing your own lunch was cheaper. You had to make your own travel arrangements.

Yes. We were told that social events were organised by the social events team, and previous ones included barbecues and Wimbledon style parties for the employees. There was also a shower, so employees could do out for a run at lunch. Surrounding the office there were many cafes and restaurants, and town was only a matter of minutes away.

Yes

For me, it could not have been a more enjoyable, insightful or informative week. I learnt so much about law, and got a first hand experience in being able to see what it's like to be a solicitor, and to work in a law firm. Not only do you learn about law, you also learn how to interact with people, how to network and what an office environment is like. It was challenging and I was out of my comfort zone, but this helped me to gain confidence, and to push myself. Everyone was so friendly and helpful, so I would definitely recommened it to everyone interested in pursuing a legal profession!

I would advise students who have been successful in their applications for the work experience week to not be afraid to ask your questions, as you will get really insightful and useful answers. I would also advise you to be enthusiastic and put 100% into everything you do. Think about whether it's an environment you would like to or be comfortable working in. Enjoy the week and make the most of it, because it goes by very quickly!