Summer Vacation Scheme Review

I spent two weeks with the Pensions team during the AOS Summer Vacation Scheme 2025. Coming from a non-law background, I found the internship both intellectually stimulating and rewarding. The legal tasks and projects I worked on broadened my understanding of AOS’ expertise, and the Pensions team was incredibly welcoming, supportive, and generous with their time and insight. The Early Careers Recruitment team were extremely helpful, organising a range of engaging workshops and seminars across different departments. Everyone I encountered at AOS was approachable and enthusiastic, and the collaborative, inclusive office culture stood out.

Through coffee chats, departmental presentations and working within the Pensions team, I was able to understand how AOS operates across different departments and international offices (combining local knowledge with global reach). I really enjoyed sitting in on department-wide meetings which gave me insights into how matters are structured by the team, and how responsibilities are divided between partners, associates and trainees.

I improved my attention to detail by reviewing contracts and extracting key contractual requirements into tables. I developed my research abilities using The Pensions Regulator to further my understanding of pension law, and refined my communication skills through drafting emails and organising coffee chats with trainees and associates. Attending departmental presentations also expanded my commercial awareness and understanding of AOS’ workplace culture.

I would say that the firm’s culture was welcoming and inclusive. Everyone, from the Early Careers Team to the Partners, was incredibly approachable and genuinely supportive. All the trainees and associates were very happy to talk to me over coffee about their careers and their time at the firm. The firm also has a commitment to pro bono initiatives and affinity networks which demonstrates their strong desire for social responsibility and inclusion.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Summer Vacation Scheme, especially coming from a non-law background, as it gave me first-hand insight into corporate law. Working in the Pensions team, I reviewed contracts for key requirements, conducted pensions law research using TPR guidance, and summarised decisions from The Pensions Ombudsman. I also attended departmental meetings, workshops, Q&A sessions, and delivered a presentation to the Early Careers Team on the final day. These experiences were all incredibly interesting and provided me a clearer understanding of the day-to-day work of a solicitor.

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