Overall Rating
4.1 /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!
3.6/5
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Overview of the Experience
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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Company Culture
Overview of the Experience
Please give an overview of what your work experience involved:
5/5
Structured and collaboratively presented my team’s pitch to a potential client regarding an acquisition after being introduced to the proceedings of M&A transactions from a partner at the firm. Discussed how to respond to a corporate client’s email with clear and concise language regarding the breach of an NDA. Introduced to the roles of in-house solicitors in different clients’ contexts by discussing a variety of scenarios with in-house solicitors from Deutsche Bank, helping me appreciate the importance of understanding a client’s industry in depth.
To what extent did you enjoy your work experience?
5/5
I enjoyed it to a very large extent because of the amount of different tasks and activities I had the opportunity to participate in. I also thoroughly enjoyed meeting like-minded people who also wanted to pursue a career in law as much as I do. I enjoyed it so much that I have recommended it to several people at my school already.
How well organised was your work experience?
5/5
It was extremely well organised, which was something I particularly admired about the firm. We managed to do a wide array of tasks throughout each day and the week, so I felt very productive. It enabled me to have enough of a break while also getting a lot of work done.
How much did your work experience help you in deciding on your future career path?
1/5
As it was one of my first ever work experiences with a law firm, it was a defining factor in influencing my future career path. I was given a very valuable insight into the type of work done in the legal industry and a commercial law firm, which has attracted me to pursue a career in a law firm.
Were you paid or reimbursed for this experience?
2/5
No, I was not paid for this experience, but I believe that I will be paid for taking part in ACCESS Spark, the continuation of the scheme in the first year of university. The experience was online so reimbursements for travelling were obviously not needed. However, when we were invited to the office after ACCESS Development, we were reimbursed for travel if necessary.
Skills Development
What training and skills development did you learn from your work experience?
5/5
Presented my team's points on behalf of the prosecution regarding the 'R v Dudley and Stephens' case, improving my ability to articulately and persuasively make arguments. Participated in a presentation workshop, advocating my group's discussions on confidence and making a positive impact, showing me the importance of presentation skills as a solicitor.
Company Culture
How much did you learn about the company culture and what it would be like to work there?
5/5
I learnt about the company culture every day by talking to employees there and hearing from the UK Managing Partner. I was introduced to the culture of meritocracy, diversity and support at the firm, which is something that I particularly value in any place of work, so I feel that I would definitely fit in.
Were there opportunities for networking and meeting other employees?
5/5
Yes, there were many breakout rooms and activities to work in teams where we could network and meet employees and peers. Also, when we were invited to the office, it was mainly a networking event to meet lawyers at the firm and the rest of my ACCESS cohort, which was great.
Recommendations and Advice
Would you recommend Clifford Chance to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I have already recommended it to many people and my friends, as an ACCESS Ambassador. I have done so because it is genuinely a valuable scheme that is run by people who care about the people they are supporting. It has also given me very memorable experiences that I have not forgotten to this day.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Clifford Chance?
My main advice would be to be yourself and try your hardest. If you are the type of person they are looking for, then you will get chosen to take part. Take pride and care in yourself and that will come through in the application, particularly in an interview if you have one.
