Work experience student Review

My work experience at Pinsent Masons involved predominantly receiving information on the legal field, with particular reference to the work of Pinsent Masons as a firm and how to complete a successful application for university. I also learnt how to apply and interview to get into firms such as Pinsent Masons after university.

I developed my communication skills as well as my ability to network with my peers and supervisors. I also found this experience helpful as it allowed me to find out the skills necessary when working in the legal department and informed me on how to develop these skills in order to excel in a legal career.

I found my work experience very insightful and enjoyable when considering the amazing opportunities I had to meet members of the legal field involved in Pinsent Masons and hear about the diverse range of roles present within the company branching out from commercial law. The Jaffa Cake exercise was also a welcome addition to my experience as it allowed me to collaborate with my peers and refine my debating skills.

I was very impressed by how each session typically lasted the length of time specified in advance by Pinsent Masons. This helped me to coordinate the remainder of my day and made work experience practical for my life. I also appreciated how I was given a clear schedule in advance and how this schedule was adhered to.

I learnt a lot about the company culture and what it would be like to work there as I was informed of the different sectors Pinsent Masons deal with as well and was also deeply encouraged by how they are a company that prioritise people over profit by caring for the well-being of their employees as well as their clients.

I had already decided on a career in law. However, Pinsent Masons fully solidified my confidence in this career path as one which I want to pursue and persuaded me to research into different modules within law which I can take at university. It was also interesting to gain insight into the role of a solicitor in particular.

I was not paid or reimbursed expenses but this was not a priority for me as the information I received on the different elements of law which Pinsent Masons deal with was incredibly insightful as it helped me to grasp a greater understanding of the variety of sectors impacted by legislation.

There were ample opportunities for networking and meeting other employees as I was provided with a networking lunch where I could engage with peers interested in the legal field and find out the different careers they were hoping to pursue in law. Working in teams also allowed me to develop my communication skills and meet new people.

Yes

Pinsent Masons prioritises the wellbeing of employees as well as the wellbeing of clients and allows for flexibility during working hours. They are a large, well-known firm but I found that everyone I met during my work experience was very down to earth and keen to help those interested in their department.

Research Pinsent Masons' ethos prior to application as this will not only help you grasp an understanding of their values and whether you can identify with these values but will also allow you to demonstrate understanding into the work that they do and how your specific skills can contribute to this work.