Vacation Schemer Review

I was at Winston Taylor for two weeks, spending one week in two departments (Private Client and Disputes & Investigations). The days were organised with blocks of 'Focus On' Sessions, which gave us insight into the different practice areas at the firm. I was set tasks relating to live client work in both departments, ranging from drafting and updating documents, research, and tasks related to business development. I had an associate supervisor and a trainee buddy in each seat, all of whom were incredibly friendly, helpful, and supportive. I had a chance to attend team meetings, organise coffee chats with people around the firm, and attend networking events. Everyone was very friendly, supportive, and willing to give up their time to help.

It was great insight into the role of a trainee solicitor, whilst also furthering my knowledge of each of the practice areas at Winston Taylor.

I have developed my research skills: whereas in a different and more academic context, I would have focused on collating the resources so that a more senior person could make a judgement about what the law said, I now feel more confident about reviewing sources myself, having a stronger narrative voice, and giving my opinion on the research question. I have also developed my collaboration, time management, networking, drafting, and commercial awareness skills.

The culture and general atmosphere were great - this was my fourth vacation scheme, and easily the one where people were most open and willing to talk. I was surprised by how willing senior people were to give up their time to speak to me, and it was great to build rapport with people from all levels.

I very much enjoyed this insight - I felt that I got involved in a good range of work and explored practice areas I was very interested in, I made connections around the firm, and I learned a lot about how the firm develops its business.

Yes

Ensure that you research the people in your teams in advance of joining the vacation scheme and have a list of people you'd like to speak to before you join. Send coffee chat invites in advance, try to build rapport with people and show off your preparation. Be enthusiastic, triple-check any work you submit, and try to think about the next steps for each task and propose to help.