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Summer Vacation Scheme Review

at A&O Shearman

Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)

Legal/Law

London

Review Submitted: August 2022

Overall Rating

4.8 /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 - Overview of Experience
5/5 - Skills Development
4.5/5 - Company Culture
5/5 - Overall Experience
5/5 - Recommendations and Advice

Overview of Experience

Please give an overview of the insight and what was involved on a day-to-day basis.
On a daily basis, I worked with my designated team on intellectually stimulating deals under the supervision of my trainer and alongside my trainee buddy. In addition to this, we were able to network with individuals from across the firm during many events and sessions. What I really enjoyed was the group project task as this required different skill sets and ensured collaboration between myself and the other participants during the vacation scheme. Very comprehensive work on a daily basis.
What was it like understanding all about the business and potential roles available?
I personally felt as though I was given a comprehensive insight and explanation as to the different business and potential roles available. Everyone at the firm was very friendly and open to answering questions that I had and I was able to book in coffee sessions with employees all across the firm to learn more. The open door policy and friendly culture helped a lot in this regard. There were a plethora of networking sessions too which helped.
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 significantly strengthened my teamwork skills and ability to work effectively with individuals from different backgrounds. This was as a result of the group project which meant that my team liaised on a daily basis with each other. On top of this, I learnt many hard legal skills from the practical work which I got involved in with my designated team. Every day provided unique opportunities to learn new things. Being pushed out of my comfort zoned helped in this regard too.
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?
Company culture was very friendly and warm. On top of this, everyone was curious and eager to learn. Through osmosis, I believe this was beneficial and allows everyone to thrive at Allen & Overy. The general atmosphere was great, from the interaction with other vacation schemers, to trainees, to associates and even partners. My team got along very well with each other and were very motivated with their work. This shows in the results that Allen & Overy produces.
How would you rate the inclusiveness of the culture?
4/5
How would you rate the networking opportunities?
5/5
Please rate how valued you felt during your insight?
4/5

Overall Experience

To what extent did you enjoy the insight?
I thoroughly enjoyed myself during the summer vacation scheme and for many reasons. Firstly, I was able to meet and network with various phenomenal individuals who I will stay connected with during my professional career. In addition, the work was very thought provoking and challenged me intellectually. My supervisor was absolutely great and always took the time and effort to explain things to me. I felt valued throughout the summer vacation scheme and learnt so much.
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

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
I would definitely suggest to others that they should remain open minded with the practice areas they wish to experience. It is also very important to remain curious and constantly ask questions. The culture of the firm promotes this and this should be leveraged to your benefit. Individuals at the firm are more than happy to help and clarify any questions you may have. Be positive about the experience and network with as many individuals from the firm as you can.
In This Review
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