Academy Participant Review

Item: Academy Participant at CMS
Rating: 5
Author: Anonymous

at CMS

Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)

Legal/Law

London

Review Submitted: August 2026

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 - Overview of Experience

5/5 - Skills Development

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.

The first week revolved around the Business of Law, in which we attended panels to learn more about life within the firm. There was also plenty of opportunities to meet and socialise with other Academy Participants. It was a week which fostered excitement for starting professional life within the firm alongside the fellow pre-trainees.
The second week involved work shadowing within a specific practice area. We were assigned specific buddies, but were able to get involved and assist wherever we could. It was incredibly interesting to see the work the firm does up close, and to be able to contribute towards it throughout the week.

How would you rate the structure of the insight

5/5

What was it like understanding all about the business and potential roles available?

A lot of time was dedicated within the first week to explaining different people's journey into law and journey within the firm specifically. Meanwhile, the second week allowed that understanding to be put into practice as we were able to work with and ask questions to people in specific teams.

Please rate how insightful you found the insight

5/5

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I was able to develop my attention to detail by reviewing and editing documents, along with my research skills.

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

What was the company culture and general atmosphere like?

The culture was incredibly supportive and kind, with Trainees and Partners alike making it clear that it was a safe environment to ask any question. This atmosphere made it easier to learn as much as possible and clarify when needed. It was very pleasant.

How would you rate the inclusiveness of the culture?

5/5

Please rate how valued you felt during your insight?

5/5

How would you rate business leader involvement during the insight

5/5

How would you rate the networking opportunities?

5/5

Overall Experience

To what extent did you enjoy the insight?

I loved the Academy experience, as it was clear a lot of thought and consideration had gone into making it as informative and inclusive as possible.

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

Would you recommend CMS to a friend?

Yes

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to CMS

I would recommend speaking to people within the firm to learn more about it. This allows for a more personal and informed tone when completing the application stage.