Work Experience Student Review

The week involved a variety of in-person live sessions with members of the firm ranging from the Early Talent Team to Trainee Solicitors up to Partner. Some of these were presentations and some were interactive workshops. There were also pre-set tasks on a virtual platform that I completed independently. Overall, a very varied and enjoyable week!

I developed my communication and public speaking skills when I presented some arguments to a group session which was very helpful. I was also given the chance to complete some tasks independently that allowed me to enhance my attention to detail and problem-solving skills that are vital to the role of a solicitor day to day.

I really enjoyed my work experience placement as it was a very well-planned and varied week with no boring moments, there was always something to think about, complete independently, or get involved in within a group. I honestly could not recommend applying to this scheme enough as it is a very rewarding programme with plenty of opportunities to learn about the firm as well as the role of people within the legal profession.

Highly organised. I was sent my timetable well in advance of the programme start and the Early Talent Team was always on hand to help with any issues so it never felt like I was stuck without knowing what to do. I would also say that the pre-launch event a few weeks in advance was particularly helpful as it gave an introduction to some of the Pinsent Masons team as well as to the platform we would be using for the week.

I can confidently say I know far more about the company culture now than I did before. There was information about the firm put into every presentation which helped to gradually build a strong understanding of the values and culture of the firm. I would also say that there was plenty of time to ask any questions that I had which meant that I could gain further insight into the firm that way too.

I would say it helped significantly. Being given the chance to speak in small groups with trainees and current solicitors was particularly helpful as the questions that I had about the career were most definitely answered. I also found the tasks set to complete gave a helpful insight into the kind of work that is carried out in a law firm on a day-to-day basis which was great.

I was not paid for the experience programme as it was a work experience placement so this is not applicable. I would encourage anyone to apply for this placement and spend the time getting to know the firm and its people as it was a fantastic week with plenty to do and get involved in.

There were a significant number of opportunities to network with employees. From the start of the week, we were placed with a supervisor group that provided the chance for any of our questions to be answered. Aside from this, there was also the chance to ask questions in any of the other presentations by members of the firm which made the virtual programme very exciting and interactive.

Yes

I really enjoyed getting to learn about the people, culture,c and progress of the firm. It was really nice to see the focus put on diversity and inclusion especially relating to empowering women in the company. I found out lots of information about the role of a Solicitor and the route to qualification as well as being provided with the opportunity to carry out some tasks both independently and within a group with the support of solicitors from the firm. Overall, I could not have asked for a better experience!

I would say to take time when filling in your application for the work experience programme. I found it helpful to look around the website and learn about the firm before I started to formulate answers as it meant I could tailor my application to the firm and make it special. Ultimately, I would say have the confidence to submit your application and work hard on making it unique and reflective of yourself.