ACCESS scheme participant Review

The ACCESS experience involved 5 days with the firm, with them hosting virtually. It gave insight into what a legal career would be like, hearing from trainee associates and partners giving us the opportunity to get to know the firm. There were workshops to develop our skill set that would be transferable, not just useful in the legal sector. We also got to visit their London office in the summer.

Throughout the week, there was a focus on the development of skills that would make you a desirable employee. In terms of law, we had a workshop about working together to create a presentation. We also had sessions hearing about the different areas of law so we got to hear about the possibility of becoming an in-house lawyer or barrister, showing the different options available. Communication skills were also enhanced as there were a lot of networking opportunities for us to get to know members of the firm more.

I really enjoyed my work experience as it helped my confidence so much. Getting to know the firm and the people who work there made me much happier to be with the firm. Also, in the summer we got to visit their London office which was surreal to see in real life as we got a tour. Also, the other people on the scheme were so lovely so it's been great getting to know them.

There was good communication through emails in advance and a timetable was provided so we knew what to expect. This meant that we knew the daily tasks. Also on the first day, there was a strong and welcoming induction which offered good insight into what the week would entail. It was a little confusing at times as I didn't know what to expect, but they did a good job at settling me in.

I learnt so much about the firm's culture as trainees, associates and partners took time to give us the chance to get to know them. I could really see myself working there in the future, the atmosphere is very collaborative, but also has the sense that they push you to achieve your best which is something I resonate with personally. Also the Graduate Recruitment Team are lovely!

The work experience was crucial at giving insight into what commercial law consists of, allowing me to see the different opportunities available alongside being a lawyer at their firm too. After talking to the employees, I really liked their mentality which has encouraged me to pursue this career as I see similarities between us. The office visit also confirmed how this environment would potentially really suit me.

No I wasn't paid for the week experience as it was virtual, but when visits to the London office occurred they offered to cover travel expenses and also provided dinner and drinks. They also offered to reimburse hotel accommodation costs if necessary. They paid my train fare when I recently went to their office for a networking event.

There have been so many networking opportunities over the past 2 years. During the virtual week, we got to meet and connect with their employees on LinkedIn, and were also encouraged to talk to mentors on their online platform. They recently hosted a networking event in their London office where we heard from Partners, future trainees, trainees and associates so this was really great to get to know the firm.

Yes

Clifford Chance really made me feel like they cared about me. It felt like my potential and capabilities were seen, where they would nurture you so you could thrive and see what suits you best. They have acted to promote diversity in the firm, and have never failed to offer support over the past 2 years.

Be honest in your application as they want to get to know you as an applicant to see if your a good fit. I would've liked to have known just how welcoming they are, as well as tips on how to make the most of taking notes throughout as it has been great to reflect on.