Work Experience Student Review

over three days we had several informative workshops where we were able to talk with employees of Pinsent Masons and ask questions about their fields of work. We were also taught about several areas of law in interactive workshop style sessions with presentations to look through. The interactions were always very friendly and helpful with members of the team.

We were introduced to several types of law, for example environmental, contract law and commercial awareness. We were also set a task for statutory interpretation and drafting which is something I'd never done before and definitely increased my skill in writing in a more law like setting. There was also again lots of support and resources to help with the task.

I very much enjoyed my work experience. It was very informative and a friendly and non-threatening introduction to law. Any technical issues (it was hosted on teams) were quickly and smoothly dealt with. Comfort breaks were also included, which were appreciated, and gave opportunity to absorb any information learnt and be away from a screen for a while.

It was very well organised with clearly scheduled and time tabled sessions. All the sessions kept within the time limit, with often extra time with opportunity to ask any questions. Each workshop had its own powerpoint that was emailed to us in case anything was missed. Support was also readily available with an email set up for students for any technical issues or issues with the work.

The company culture seemed incredibly inclusive and accepting. Every member of staff came across as very friendly and informed in their area of work. There was quite a light hearted but still professional air to the firm, and i could definitely see myself fitting into that type of work space.

Before coming into the work experience, I was pretty unsure of what my future career path was going to be, and even then leaning towards training to be a barrister, but after the sessions with the solicitors and seeing what their work involves, I am now much more open to the idea of being a solicitor instead and am going to research the job further. It also solidified my thought of getting a degree in law or going to law school and then going into the field of law for my work.

I wasn't paid or reimbursed for this experience. However, it was a virtual work experience with no travel or extra costs like food as I was at home. It was also only over three days with a six hour day, and so I think not being paid was very reasonable, considering all the valuable information we were being given for free.

Yes, there was a networking lunch which was active during the lunch break of the work experience. This was to practice networking and talking with other students involved in the programme. However, due to safeguarding rules no emails or linkedin accounts were allowed to be exchanged, which I think was a little annoying but completely understandable giving the age group (16 - 19) of the students.

Yes

Because they are clearly very educated within their work and are a very professional law firm. They are extremely inclusive with diversity and equality being a main focus of their ideals. They also come off as very genuine about their work as well as being friendly and approachable, and so easy to work and get along with.

Be honest in your application - Pinsent Masons are very accepting in applicants, especially those who had a less obvious path to law or older people who have had a career change. It doesn't hurt to research a company before you apply to it, so applying will do you favours too and show you are definitely interested and committed to the firm.