PRIME Work Experience Programme Review
at Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP
Work Experience
Commercial Law, Corporate Law
London
Review Submitted: October 2025
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 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 experience involved:
5/5
My experience at Gibson Dunn involved a combination of insight sessions, practical workshops, and work shadowing. Throughout the week, I had the opportunity to learn about the firm’s core practice areas, engage in discussions with partners and associates, and gain a clearer understanding of the firm’s culture and values. I also shadowed an of counsel, which gave me first-hand exposure to the type of work trainees are involved in and allowed me to ask questions about their day-to-day responsibilities and career paths.
How well organised was your experience?
5/5
The experience was exceptionally well organised. Each day had a clear timetable that balanced workshops, networking, and shadowing opportunities. The graduate recruitment team kept us well-informed with reminders and were always available for support. Transitions between sessions were smooth, and everything ran on time, which made the whole week feel structured and professional.
To what extent did you enjoy your experience?
5/5
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience. Gibson Dunn provided my first real exposure to a law firm environment, which deepened my interest in pursuing a career in law. Each session offered something distinct and engaging, from learning directly from partners to networking with trainees and taking part in interactive workshops. The week gave me a genuine sense of the firm’s culture and a clear understanding of what makes Gibson Dunn stand out.
How much did your experience help you in deciding on your future career path?
5/5
My experience at Gibson Dunn significantly helped shape my understanding of what a career in commercial law involves specifically. Speaking directly with partners and trainees gave me clarity on the realities of working in a top firm and the exposure to both transactional and contentious practice areas helped me refine my interests in the corporate world. It confirmed that I want to pursue a career as a solicitor in a leading international firm.
Were you paid or reimbursed adequately for this experience?
I was reimbursed expenses
Skills Development
What training and skills development did you learn from your experience?
5/5
During the week, I developed a range of professional and practical skills. The employability workshops strengthened my communication, networking, and interview skills, while the drafting session with a partner improved my attention to detail and ability to analyse legal documents critically. Work shadowing also helped me understand how trainees approach complex matters and manage their workload effectively within teams.
Company Culture
How much did you learn about the company culture and what it would be like to work there?
5/5
I gained a very strong understanding of Gibson Dunn’s culture throughout the week. It was clear that collaboration, excellence, and authenticity are highly valued within the firm. Everyone, from partners to trainees, was approachable and open in sharing their experiences, which made the environment feel incredibly inclusive and driven. The emphasis on quality work without losing individuality really showed me what it would be like to be part of the firm.
Were there opportunities for networking and meeting other employees?
5/5
Yes, there were networking opportunities almost every day. Whether it was speaking with partners after sessions, chatting with trainees during lunch, or engaging with associates during the work-shadowing placement, there was always time to connect. For example, during the trainee Q&A panel, I was able to ask direct questions about their journeys and get honest advice on applications and firm life, which made the experience even more insightful.
Recommendations and Advice
Would you recommend Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend the Gibson Dunn PRIME work experience because it offers a genuine insight into life at a top international law firm. What stood out most was how approachable everyone was. It’s the perfect introduction for anyone serious about pursuing a career in commercial law.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP?
My advice would be to be genuinely yourself throughout the process. Gibson Dunn values authenticity and individuality, and the people here can immediately tell when someone is trying too hard to fit a mould. Do your research on the firm’s practice areas and recent deals, but focus on showing genuine curiosity and enthusiasm when you speak to people.
