Allen and Overy First Scheme Review
at A&O Shearman
Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)
Commercial Law
London
Review Submitted: May 2024
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
-
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 First scheme was truly an insightful and welcoming experience! It involved taking part in presentations of different training areas, such as banking. There was an opportunity to understand more personal experiences of the firm through a trainee panel and being allocated a trainee buddy. The firm emphasised the importance of diversity and inclusion through a group session with their team. The recruitment team were so friendly and approachable, and they really took the time to really get to know the 2024 cohort. Overall, it was an informative and unique experience!
What was it like understanding all about the business and potential roles available?
We were able to learn more about the specific practice areas, and what work and responsibilities they actually entail. However, beyond this, we also got to hear about the experiences of trainees, associates and partners within that specific area and how they tackle day-to-day tasks to ensure efficiency. There was also information about international roles that the firm offered through secondments, as well as placements at other businesses for training.
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?
I was able to develop my communication and networking skills, both with experienced lawyers and other students within the cohort. I also developed a deeper understanding about the commercial world with in-depth presentations of practice areas. Additionally, there was an entire session dedicated to understanding what commercial awareness is and how to practically take the steps to ensure we are constantly improving it.
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?
The firm had a very welcoming and accepting environment, from the interview process right through to the actual scheme. The recruitment team worked hard to ensure every student felt comfortable and excited about the programme! They made sure to connect with us and encourage a more open environment. The session on diversity and inclusion also gave a unique insight into how the collaborative culture of the firm operates.
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 really enjoyed this first year scheme, because not only did it teach me more about the commercial sphere, but it gave me, and continues to give me, skills and knowledge about greater confidence and communication. I enjoyed being able to connect with lawyers within the firm, but I also loved getting to know other keen students and building a long-lasting relationship with them. It truly was an unforgettable experience!
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 not paid and had no expenses
Recommendations and Advice
Please rate the future employment prospects at A&O Shearman
5/5
Would you recommend A&O Shearman to a friend?
Yes
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to A&O Shearman
For the application process, I would advise researching the firm in depth, including both on-going and recent deals the firm has been involved in. I would also recommend looking into the firms values and what they stand for, and understanding why you would be a good fit for the scheme.
The interview process was very constructive and informative! The recruitment team was lovely to speak to and it was a very calm environment. I would recommend other applicants to be themselves and truly let their personality come through! The firm is so welcoming and accepting to diversity and new perspectives!
Whilst on the scheme, try to talk to as many students and lawyers you can! Not only does it develop your own communication skills, but it creates long-lasting relationships with others.
The interview process was very constructive and informative! The recruitment team was lovely to speak to and it was a very calm environment. I would recommend other applicants to be themselves and truly let their personality come through! The firm is so welcoming and accepting to diversity and new perspectives!
Whilst on the scheme, try to talk to as many students and lawyers you can! Not only does it develop your own communication skills, but it creates long-lasting relationships with others.
