work experience student - Unpaid Role Review

I am a work experience student and have different daily tasks in different departments. I had experience with TMT and I got to research recent contract law cases and help put together monthly updates for clients. In construction and engineering the tasks I carried out included: drafting emails for clients and populated collateral warranties. I have also taken part in a mock trial with my peers. I interacted with the trainees and carried out group tasks with other students on the programme.

I have developed my confidence skills through the mock trail that we participated in and with tasks that I was given. I have improved my communication skills when talking to supervisors and when working on the trial with other work experience students. I have also improved when talking in front of people when presenting ideas.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this experience and have really learnt a lot from it. I have learnt a lot about the law firm and how it runs. I really enjoyed all the group tasks put together and the opportunities I got to ask lots of questions. Everyone is so welcoming and enjoyed being part of programme and different teams.

I feel valued by Pinsent Masons as they have taken the time to put this excellent programme together which has given me experience I will have for the rest of my life. The work experience students were involved in the daily tasks of the team and we have been given a great insight to how a law firm operates.

The programmes is very structured and we have tasks and events planned all day. We have a timetable which includes tasks such as: PM mock trial preparation, an entry to law talk, Journey talks from various members of Pinsent Masons, Business group exercise, an opportunity to review CVs and time in our different departments.

Trainees have supervised us and have given us support when carrying out various tasks. They have been very supportive and are always open to asking questions. If I had a problem there was always somebody available to help. I really enjoyed the tasks I was given as they were new to me and I had the chance to try something different.

They have a positive attitude to supporting us and have given us plenty of guidance throughout the programme.

This area is not applicable for me as I am only here for a week of work experience so I don't get paid.

As I was only here for one week I did not get the opportunity to attend any company events or join any of the sports teams. However, Pinsent Masons demonstrated how many opportunities there are within the firm to get involved in events or sports such as rugby or netball. Pinsent Masons have many events as well and the teams seem to get together outside of work.

Yes

Pinsent Masons have put together a well structured programme and provided us with insight to several areas of law. We have been placed across different departments and we have made friends with others on the work experience placement. You get an opportunity to work with peers in group tasks such as the mock trial and business group exercises. This allowed me to be challenged and improve various skills.

To consider what type of qualities a law firm would like to have and how you could out them into practice. To also have transferable skills from clubs or other opportunities. To ensure you take part in other activities than will look impressive such as sport or debating. I would advise spending plenty of time on your application as the programme is competitive but well worth it.