
Rating
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Skills
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Business Insight
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Culture
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Your Impressions
- 1. Please give an overview of the insight and what was involved on a day-to-day basis.
- 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
- How would you rate the training provided during your experience?
- How would you rate the knowledge learned around industry-specific skills during the experience?
- How would you rate the knowledge learned around personal or professional skills during the experience?
- Please rate how the knowledge learned has helped you with regards to your career development
- 3. What was it like understanding all about the business and potential roles available?
- Please rate how insightful you found the insight
- How would you rate the structure of the insight
- How would you rate business leader involvement during the insight
- 4. What was the company culture and general atmosphere like?
- How would you rate the inclusiveness of the culture?
- How would you rate the networking opportunities?
- Please rate how valued you felt during your insight?
- 5. To what extent did you enjoy the insight?
- Please rate your level of enjoyment on the insight
- Please rate how your experience met your expectations
- Please rate the future employment prospects at Herbert Smith Freehills
- 7. Would you recommend Herbert Smith Freehills to a friend?
- 8. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Herbert Smith Freehills
Overview
On the first day of the Herbert Smith Freehills insight scheme, we were introduced to some of the firm鈥檚 notable cases and the disputes involved, followed by a technical thinking workshop and a hands-on session in dispute resolution. We also received tailored application advice for future schemes. On the second day, we attended a practice area fair where we spoke to trainees across departments, asked about their application journeys, and spent the day shadowing a trainee to experience their daily work firsthand.
Skills
During the insight, I developed a sharper attention to detail, a skill that proved crucial during the dispute resolution and technical thinking workshops. While it may seem clich茅, I realised how essential it is to read between the lines and pick up on subtle information when tackling issues. This experience helped me appreciate the importance of precision and critical thinking in resolving complex disputes effectively.
Business Insight
It was exciting and refreshing to learn about the wide range of roles available across HSF鈥檚 practice areas. Each one offered something unique, and it was clear from speaking to trainees that every seat brought new challenges and learning opportunities. Their experiences showed how the firm supports continuous growth and development, which made the idea of working at HSF even more appealing.
Culture
The culture at HSF felt incredibly welcoming and supportive. Despite the hierarchical structure, everyone from senior lawyers to trainees was very approachable and eager to help. It was clear that collaboration was deeply valued, with trainees feeling comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance. During my work shadowing experience, I saw firsthand how this close-knit and respectful environment contributes to both personal growth and the high standard of work produced across the firm.
Your Impressions
I thoroughly enjoyed the insight experience at HSF. It was incredibly informative and gave me a clearer understanding of the firm and its work. I particularly valued the work shadowing experience, which offered a realistic glimpse into the day-to-day life of a trainee. The workshops were also a highlight, as they sharpened my legal thinking and taught me the importance of attention to detail when approaching complex issues, further strengthening my interest in pursuing a legal career at HSF.
Yes
My advice for anyone applying to HSF is to be specific, genuine, and reflective. Tailor your answers closely to the firm. This could be done by mentioning particular cases or practice areas that interest you and explaining why. Avoid generic responses; make your application authentically yours by showing how your personal experiences, values, and insights align with HSF鈥檚 culture and work. Highlight qualities or skills you鈥檝e developed that make you a strong fit, and clearly demonstrate what you can contribute to the firm.
Details
Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)
Legal/Law
London
April 2025