ACCESS Review

A 4 day virtual programme that included talks on topics like global transactions and asset financing, meeting legal professionals, including partners and paralegals, and taking part in more interactive sessions. It also included sessions on things like Clifford Chance’s diversity and inclusion strategy. This spanned around 6 hours a day, including breaks and lunch.

It was quite insightful as it showed that Clifford Chance does not just hire lawyers. For example, it also hires paralegals at its Newcastle office. This came with also showing that there are multiple ways into a legal career, as the paralegal positions are filled via apprenticeships.

I have developed my networking skills via the multiple virtual networking lunches provided, which gave us the opportunity to network with professionals.
I would also say that I have developed my application writing skills, especially for vacation schemes and training contracts, due to the legal insight I gained on the placement.
I have also developed my skills with regards to commercial awareness and how to obtain and utilise it.

Very welcoming to all. This was best shown by the session on Clifford Chance’s diversity and inclusion strategy, which highlighted things like the multiple employee networks available and the events going on to help people feel welcome, such as the LGBTQ+ art galleries sponsored by the firm. Everybody was very nice and I did not have a single bad experience with any of the Clifford Chance professionals, nor any others on the scheme.

I largely enjoyed the virtual internship as it provided a solid insight into the firm and had a good mix of activities and sectors. I would say that it could be made better if it was in person, but this is obviously a logistical nightmare. Long Teams calls can also be quite tiring.

Yes