PRIME Scheme Participant Review

Work experience involved an insight into work as a trainee, talks from partners, and talks from Graduate Recruitment. We learned more about the culture and the firm. I was also given a strong insight into the firm's clients, the nature of the work and work patterns as a lawyer at Clifford Chance.

I learned a lot from my experience. This was effectively my first experience where I saw first-hand the opportunities available at a global law firm. I was able to appreciate the breadth of the firm's practice areas and what work you would be involved in as a Trainee Solicitor in Clifford Chance.

I enjoyed my work experience to a great extent. Clifford Chance facilitated a number of opportunities to network with other like-minded students, trainees and lawyers, many of which had a similar background to mine. There were also many social events that made the experience all the more memorable and enjoyable.

It was very well organised. Right from the outset, you are given a planner that provides you with an agenda during my time doing work experience at Clifford Chance. The scheme was well-structured and you are aware of all events from day one. There were no gaps during the day where you would have nothing to do.

I learned a great deal about the Clifford Chance company culture and what it is like to work here. The office atmosphere was overall welcoming and friendly, and many of the lawyers had humble backgrounds - something that made me feel like I could fit in with the team well given that I share the firms values.

This was a huge insight into the world of law. It shaped my approach towards university and towards a career in law. I completed my work experience in 2017, then accepted onto a Vacation Scheme in 2020, offered a training contract right after and now I am a Trainee Solicitor in CC.

I was paid, yes. We were paid a small allowance to cover our time during the week, with all travel costs reimbursed. Meal costs were not factored in here as Clifford Chance scheduled in daily lunches for all participants in the scheme. Social costs were also covered fully by Clifford Chance.

Yes. There was an abundance of opportunities for networking and meeting other employees. Throughout the week, we had insights from Trainees, Associates, Senior Associates and Partners. This was important because I was able to network with employees and see all the different positions in Clifford Chance from different departments (finance, corporate and litigation etc).

Yes

Clifford Chance has been a great firm to work at. It has a welcoming and inclusive culture where you are not left feeling out of place. I would recommend Clifford Chance because of the career insights you are provided with and the opportunities to network with like-minded individuals and lawyers - an opportunity that is invaluable and very important in determining whether this career is for you.

I would recommend you research Clifford Chance thoroughly and spend time understanding the firm in and out. Do not waste time studying deals that the firm has worked on, but rather spend more time on what you find interesting and why it draws you even closer to the firm. Overall, it is important to be yourself and relate to the role you are applying for.