Niki Mehta is currently studying the LPC and took part in Mayer Brown’s vacation scheme in April 2019. She will start at the firm in February 2021.
No of scheme places 30 Location of schemes London Length of schemes 2 weeks Remuneration (per week) £275 Dates of schemes Spring 2020 Summer 2020 Closing date for applications 31 January 2020 Application procedure Online Insider report Mayer Brown International LLP For full contact information and details of Training Contract, see the firm’s full entry in the main directory on p384
What did you do while on the scheme? I completed two seats during the two-week vacation scheme at Mayer Brown – pensions and finance. It was a great chance to experience the type of work the firm undertakes, to meet different teams, and to understand how these teams collaborate with other areas of the business. In terms of specific work, I reviewed liability standards and contracts, proofread documents and undertook legal research tasks. It was a real insight into the sorts of challenges and considerations that the firm must take into account when working for its clients. During the scheme there were a number of skills sessions scheduled, including one on how to create and manage your personal brand. This was invaluable as, regardless of the outcome of the scheme, we were given tips that will be helpful in the future. There were many different social events throughout the scheme, including a networking lunch with partners and a dinner at a top restaurant. We were also taken on a tour around the law courts. Everyone we met was really passionate and enthusiastic about what they were doing. Another highlight was the trip to the Paris office, which was an incredible experience. It was interesting to see how the firm works in another country. Trainees at Mayer Brown are encouraged to complete a secondment during their training contract; therefore it was a great insight into where we could be working as trainees! What did you feel that you gained from the placement? It provided a genuine insight into the firm. Everyone throws the word ‘culture’ around, but I’ve done other vacation schemes and seen first-hand how the culture can vary between different firms. It’s important to go into the firm and work out if it’s somewhere you can see yourself. Plus, doing different seats gives you an appreciation of the departments and the kind of work you will be doing as a trainee. Which were the most enjoyable – and most challenging – aspects of the scheme? It was very enjoyable meeting people at the firm. Everyone was genuinely interested in what we had to say and we felt so valued, even as vac schemers. The challenging part was being given a piece of work, worrying that you didn’t know how to do it and thinking that would impact your chances of getting a training contract. But ultimately you don’t need to worry about that because the firm isn’t expecting you to get absolutely everything right – they want to see your logic and how you approach work. Did the scheme end with a training contract interview or some other kind of further recruitment process? At the end of the placement there was an interview with two partners. This was informal and relaxed. We spoke about what I had learnt during the two weeks, why I wanted to work at the firm and if I felt the firm was still a good fit for me. I was offered a training contract shortly after. Is there one key thing that you took away from the experience that you would pass on as advice to others? Be yourself. Everyone at Mayer Brown was united by their friendliness and approachability. The firm really values people coming from different backgrounds and the diversity of thought and personality. You know you’re good enough to get onto the vacation scheme, so use the opportunity to let your personality shine.
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WORK EXPERIENCE
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