Vacation Scheme Student Review

The vacation scheme provided a valuable insight into both the legal work undertaken at the firm and the day-to-day experience of working in a commercial law environment.
On a day-to-day basis, I worked on a variety of legal tasks, including drafting board minutes, conducting legal and commercial research, reviewing transaction documents, and working with Excel spreadsheets and iManage. These tasks helped me develop my drafting, research, and organisational skills while giving me exposure to the type of work undertaken by trainees and associates.
Alongside the legal work, I had numerous opportunities to network with trainees, associates, partners, and members of the wider business services teams. The scheme also included social events and activities, which provided an opportunity to build relationships with colleagues and fellow vacation scheme students in a more informal setting.
I also took part in pro bono activities, which highlighted the firm's commitment to supporting clients and communities beyond its commercial work. In addition, there were various workshops, presentations, and briefings covering different practice areas, legal topics, and career development skills. These sessions provided a broader understanding of the firm's work, culture, and the legal industry more generally.
Overall, the scheme offered a balanced combination of practical legal experience, professional development, networking opportunities, and social activities.

It was very insightful and gave me a much better understanding of both the firm and the role of a commercial lawyer. Through presentations, workshops, and conversations with trainees, associates, and partners, I learned about the different types of work undertaken across practice areas and how lawyers collaborate to support clients on a range of matters.
I also gained an understanding of what day-to-day life as a commercial lawyer looks like, including the variety of work involved, typical working patterns, and the skills required to succeed in the role. In addition, I learned more about Dentons' global presence, the different offices within the firm, and how teams across jurisdictions work together on cross-border matters.
The scheme also provided useful insight into the different career opportunities available within the firm, including trainee and associate roles, the qualification process, and retention rates. Overall, it gave me a clearer picture of both the career path and the opportunities available at Dentons.

Yes, I have both developed existing skills and gained new ones during the vacation scheme.
From a legal perspective, I improved my drafting skills through tasks such as preparing board minutes, reviewing documents, and completing research assignments. I also developed my ability to analyse information, identify key issues, and present my findings in a clear and concise manner.
Beyond the legal work, I strengthened my networking and communication skills by speaking with trainees, associates, partners, and members of the wider firm. These interactions helped me become more confident in building professional relationships and asking questions.
I also developed my proactivity and time-management skills by balancing multiple tasks, managing deadlines, and seeking out additional work when I had capacity. Overall, the scheme helped me become more confident, organised, and effective in a professional environment.

The company culture was very collegiate, friendly, and approachable. From the beginning of the scheme, I felt welcomed and supported by everyone I interacted with, including trainees, associates, partners, and members of the wider business services teams.
People were generous with their time and always willing to answer questions, provide feedback, or discuss their experiences at the firm. This created an open and collaborative environment where I felt comfortable seeking guidance and getting involved in different pieces of work.
The atmosphere was professional while also being supportive and inclusive. Through both the legal work and the social events, it was clear that the firm places a strong emphasis on teamwork, collaboration, and helping colleagues develop and succeed.

I thoroughly enjoyed the insight and found it to be a very rewarding experience. I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to learn about the work of a commercial law firm, gain exposure to a variety of legal tasks, and develop a better understanding of the different practice areas within the firm.
One of the most enjoyable aspects was seeing my own development over the course of the scheme. Through the work I completed, the feedback I received, and the conversations I had with people across the firm, I became more confident in my abilities and gained a stronger understanding of the skills required to succeed as a commercial lawyer.
Overall, I enjoyed every aspect of the experience and found it both intellectually engaging and professionally valuable.

Yes

My main piece of advice would be to make the most of the experience. Two weeks may seem like a long time, but it passes very quickly, so it is important to take advantage of every opportunity available.
I would encourage future applicants to meet as many people as possible, whether that be trainees, associates, partners, or members of the wider firm. Networking and having conversations with people across different practice areas can provide valuable insights into the firm and the legal profession.
I would also recommend being proactive and asking for work whenever you have capacity. The more tasks and experiences you take on, the more you will learn and develop your skills. Overall, being engaged, curious, and willing to get involved will help you gain the most from the vacation scheme.