SPARK Student Review
at Clifford Chance
Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)
Legal/Law
Canary Wharf
Review Submitted: September 2023
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Experience
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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Company Culture
5/5
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Overall Experience
5/5
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Recommendations and Advice
Overview of Experience
Please give an overview of the insight and what was involved on a day-to-day basis.
The scheme spanned five days, each day presenting a unique and enriching experience. Our daily activities included networking sessions, shadowing, and presentations on various topics, including the GFM team, the corporate team, networking skills, commercial awareness, affinity networks, ESG, and pro bono.
Furthermore, each participant was paired with a Trainee Buddy and an Associate Supervisor, with the majority of our time dedicated to shadowing the Associate Supervisor.
Furthermore, each participant was paired with a Trainee Buddy and an Associate Supervisor, with the majority of our time dedicated to shadowing the Associate Supervisor.
What was it like understanding all about the business and potential roles available?
I found the process of familiarizing myself with the firm's business and potential roles to be remarkably accessible. During the scheme, I had the chance to inquire about its internal hiring and promotion processes. Learning about the firm's efforts to address gender disparities in partnership promotions was particularly enlightening. Understanding the firm's commitment to supporting and promoting women was valuable for my career considerations.
Please rate how insightful you found the insight
5/5
How would you rate the structure of the insight
5/5
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
During the scheme, I had the opportunity to deepen my understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities of a trainee at Clifford Chance. While shadowing, I delved into the topic of securitization and even participated in a client call alongside my Associate Supervisor. Additionally, I took advantage by engaging with other associates, gaining insights into practice areas such as Private Equity, Capital Markets, FinanceX, and FIG. Moreover, I gained insight into the firm's commercial performance.
How would you rate the training provided during your experience?
5/5
How would you rate the knowledge learned around industry-specific skills during the experience?
5/5
How would you rate the knowledge learned around personal or professional skills during the experience?
5/5
Please rate how the knowledge learned has helped you with regards to your career development
5/5
Company Culture
How would you rate business leader involvement during the insight
5/5
What was the company culture and general atmosphere like?
My experience on the SPARK scheme introduced me to some of the most welcoming individuals I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. The Graduate Recruitment team and partners were exceptionally friendly and approachable. Both my Trainee Buddy and Associate Supervisor were always available for questions and friendly conversations, despite their busy schedules. Overall, everyone at Clifford Chance made me feel part of the team.
How would you rate the inclusiveness of the culture?
5/5
How would you rate the networking opportunities?
5/5
Please rate how valued you felt during your insight?
5/5
Overall Experience
To what extent did you enjoy the insight?
I can confidently say that my time on the scheme was nothing short of exceptional. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment, and it was genuinely difficult to bid farewell when the scheme concluded. The knowledge and insights I gained at the firm were immensely enriching, and the people I met were genuinely amazing. This experience has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on me and will prove invaluable in my future career development.
Please rate your level of enjoyment on the insight
5/5
Please rate how your experience met your expectations
5/5
Were you paid or reimbursed adequately for this experience?
I was paid and reimbursed expenses
Recommendations and Advice
Please rate the future employment prospects at Clifford Chance
5/5
Would you recommend Clifford Chance to a friend?
Yes
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Clifford Chance
My primary piece of advice for aspiring applicants to Clifford Chance is to invest time in enhancing your commercial awareness. Stay updated with current news and actively engage with relevant material. Research how the firm operates as a business and be clear about why you are drawn to Clifford Chance over other firms. Most importantly, be authentic in your interactions and remain open to learning from every experience.
