ACCESS/PRIME Review

The week provided a well-rounded introduction into a career in law. From learning more about what life is like as a lawyer at Clifford Chance, to understanding the differences between a barrister, solicitor and the role of General Counsel, ACCESS gave me the opportunity to ask questions and network across the firm and with peers.

Whilst working on the team building exercise, I developed my ability to work in a team and communicate. I also found the scheme improved my commercial awareness - guidance was provided by the graduate recruitment team, alongside presentations from lawyers at the firm. Most importantly, I developed my capacity to learn from others and, specifically, my peers.

I thoroughly enjoyed my work experience at Clifford Chance. I found I was supported well before, during, and after the week. Everyone at the firm goes the extra mile to ensure you feel comfortable and have everything you need to make the most out of the experience. I learnt a great deal, much of which informed important career decisions, and I would recommend applying to anyone considering a career in law.

The week was very well organised - the graduate recruitment team ensured we had a jam-packed schedule, including networking opportunities at lunch. In the evenings, I had time to reflect on the day's talks, presentations, and one-on-one conversations. We also had plenty of opportunities to mix with those who were also on the scheme.

The first word that comes to mind when thinking about the company culture at Clifford Chance is diversity. I learnt the most about the culture, and what it would be like to work at the firm, through conversations with those currently working there at networking lunches. It soon became clear that there was no 'one path' to becoming a lawyer and that Clifford Chance celebrated the diversity of its employees. This particularly resonated with me coming from a 'non-law' background.

ACCESS was pivotal in helping me decide on my future career path - it cemented my ambition to become a solicitor in a city firm. Not only was the work experience insightful in providing me with an introduction into law, but it gave me the confidence to apply to the SPARK scheme - I felt supported by the graduate recruitment team as well as my mentor.

Although the work experience week was unpaid, Clifford Chance reimbursed travel expenses across the 5-day work week - this was a straightforward and easy process which was completed at the end of the week. Clifford Chance provided lunch (which was especially nice), tea and coffee for the duration of the week.

There were plenty of opportunities to network with employees across the firm - from trainees to associates and even partners. These took the form of presentations and panel talks, alongside more informal networking opportunities over lunch. We were also matched up with a trainee mentor who helped support us and facilitate further opportunities to meet others from across the firm.

Yes

I would highly recommend applying to the ACCESS scheme for anyone interested in law as it gives you a great opportunity to meet people, ask questions, and decide whether this is the career path for you. You come away with new and improved skills, and a fantastic network. What makes Clifford Chance stand out from other firms is the effort they make to keep in contact with you after the week and help with your ongoing development.

When applying to Clifford Chance, try to leverage any experience you already have (be it a Saturday job, a week in an office, volunteering, or playing a sport) and reflect on the skill set you have built up from this - how do those skills align to those of a lawyer? It is also important to make sure your personality comes through - what are your interests or hobbies? Do any of your values align with the firms? How can you show that?