September 2024: What's the best possible way for future lawyers to get a real insight into what it's actually like to work at a global law firm like White & Case? Every year, 75 undergraduate students and graduates take part in one of our three vacation schemes. Here's the top ten reasons why you should apply.
1. There's no competition for training contracts
Most of our trainees come from our vacation schemes (approximately 80 per cent), but there's no limit on how many vacation scheme participants will be offered a training contract. The two-week programme is an opportunity to develop valuable skills, explore working in the law and develop personally–no matter where your career takes you.
2. Develop professional skills
As an integral part of our teams, you'll gain professional skills that will make you shine to any future employer. You'll master professional communication, preparing you for client meetings, crafting sharp emails, and writing impactful notes and memos. You'll enhance your research abilities, decision-making, and presentation skills. Plus, you'll get an insider's view of working in the bustling City environment—from navigating dress codes to discovering the best lunch spots. This isn't just a vacation scheme; it's your launchpad into the legal world
3. Build your network, both professionally and personally
Get to know our lawyers, from trainees to partners. If there's an area you're interested in, we can help arrange a coffee or a call. Your fellow vacation scheme participants might be your future trainee cohort, clients or friends. Start growing your network as soon as you step through the door.
4. Find out about different areas of the law
What does an Arbitration lawyer do all day? What kind of typical tasks does a trainee working in our Private Equity team do? What other practices do associates in our Capital Markets team liaise with regularly? Learning 'on the job' during the vacation scheme will answer all these questions and more, and you may even get the opportunity to work on real client matters.
5. Receive feedback and advice
You'll work closely with a supervisor (an associate or partner) who will give you constructive feedback on your work and your performance. For example, you may get the chance to do a first draft of a memo, then spend time with your supervisor comparing your work to the finished product.
6. Early Careers Legal Recruitment and Development team contact
You can check in with your dedicated Early Careers team member whenever you want. They're available to discuss work assignments, make introductions to people from different practices and answer any questions about the scheme or training contract that you might have. You'll also get the opportunity to have a formal feedback session with your Early Careers team member, both during and after the scheme.
7. Get to know our people
Working alongside, and as part of, our teams, you'll meet new people every day and build bonds. Expect to get to know our people at informal events too, including a lunch with your supervisor and fun activities after work (think sushi-making, go-karting, escape rooms and more).
8. Experience diversity at White & Case
Experience what working in a global firm really feels like. We pride ourselves on our commitment to a diverse, supportive workforce, where everyone who works here lives our values. You'll be invited to attend affinity network events and encouraged to find out more about our actions on diversity & inclusion.
9. Get answers to your questions
Got more questions? Our 'Ask Me Anything' session with partners and associates is where you can get insights into those questions you really want to know or haven't had a chance to ask. Typical questions might be: Why White & Case? Tell us your career story. How did you make partner? What are the hours like for London trainees?
10. Be assessed for a training contract
All vacation scheme participants are guaranteed a training contract interview, with two partners. This is a CV-blind process, during which you'll deliver a presentation on a commercial topic (with advance notice of the topic). You'll be asked questions about how your experience and competencies relate to the role of trainee. Additionally, throughout the scheme, you will participate in various assessments that provide insight into life at White & Case.
