Work Experience Student Review

In the mornings of each day, we were given interactive talks and presentations by current employees of the firm that included commercial litigation, employment law, the structure of the firm and their own routes into the profession. In the afternoons, we were allocated different practice areas to join the teams and get an insight into the work they do. I was first in projects, specifically construction, then moved to competition for my final 2 days. I was allocated various tasks by my supervisors to help others in the team, including drafting letters, proofreading, and carrying out research.

I developed my time management skills - tasks I was allocated were to be completed by a certain time. I also grew in confidence as I had to take on the role of advocate during our mock tribunal at the end of the week. I felt that I was able to hone skills in attention to detail as it was needed for drafting and proofreading.

I thoroughly enjoyed the programme - I felt that each day was highly constructive, I had enough tasks given to me to keep me busy all day. The other students on the work experience week were all really great and easy to get along with. Each day went by very quickly and I left at the end of the week feeling sad it was over!

I felt very valued by PM - they were constant in offering support throughout the work experience placement. All of the staff I interacted with were really friendly and approachable, and created a welcoming environment. I felt valued by those around me and inclined to apply for other schemes run by the firm in the future.

The programme was incredibly well structured. Each activity was allocated a suitable amount of time, and no session ran longer than it needed to so I didn’t feel as though I ever got bored. We were never left with nothing to do, and all the speakers who came and the activities set were insightful and beneficial in helping us learn more about a career in law.

We were all allocated a supervisor for the week based on the practice areas we were placed in. My supervisors were really approachable, gave me an overview of what work they do in the set area and made sure I understood the work I was doing. If I had any problems I was comfortable asking them about it.

Pinsent Masons came across as a supportive employer - they gave us plenty of information about what was to come in our week and made it clear that everyone is happy to help out if we needed anything.

as it was a sixth form work experience programme there was no salary

We were informed of the vacation schemes and how/when to apply for them when at university.

Yes

I felt that the Pinsent Masons work experience programme gave me a real insight into the work of a commercial firm; by doing hands-on tasks and getting involved with real-life tasks and situations, I feel better equipped in pursuing a career in the legal profession. All of the staff at PM were inviting and friendly, making me feel welcome right from the start.

When applying for work experience at PM: Highlight your best qualities. Showing that you are a well-rounded person is great, but you want to let the firm know that you’re the sort of person they want to work for them. Do some research to find out what the ethos of the firm is, and what they look for in potential employees. Show them how you meet this profile, and convey a sense of enthusiasm about the programme and practice areas in your application. Don’t list skills; give examples to show how you have used them in the past.