Luke is a future trainee solicitor at Shoosmiths. Discover how the Shoosmiths Discover Vacation Placement helped Luke secure a training contract and confirm that Shoosmiths was the right firm for his future career.
My time on the Shoosmiths Discover Vacation Placement was instrumental not only in securing my training contract but also in confirming that Shoosmiths is the firm for me. The scheme offered invaluable insights and opportunities that I believe every aspiring solicitor should consider.
Preparing for the placement
Before starting the placement, I was incredibly nervous. This was my first fully-fledged vacation scheme, and I wanted to make a strong impression. To ease my nerves and feel prepared, I took proactive steps. I reviewed the timetable in advance, researched the people I’d be meeting, familiarised myself with the topics being presented, and gained an understanding of the team I would be joining. This preparation gave me confidence, allowing me to actively engage in discussions, ask meaningful questions, and make the most of my time.
Another crucial aspect of preparation was meeting my mentor beforehand. A brief Teams call with Luke, my buddy in the Employment team, made a world of difference. The informal chat put me at ease, provided a familiar face for the first day, and gave me the chance to ask questions about his experience at Shoosmiths. I would strongly recommend setting up a similar conversation before the scheme starts—it’s a small step that can make your first day much less daunting.
What I enjoyed most
One of the standout aspects of the Discover scheme was how welcoming everyone was. I was struck by how approachable the partners were; they were more than willing to have a chat and answer my questions. This accessibility extended across the firm, creating a culture that felt refreshingly different from the stereotypical image of a law firm. Everyone I met genuinely wanted to help me succeed and included me in activities they thought I’d find interesting or valuable.
The Manchester office also deserves a special mention. It’s a vibrant space complete with perks like a pick-and-mix station and a mini fridge stocked with drinks - little touches that made the experience all the more enjoyable.
Skills and insights gained
The placement was transformative in many ways, helping me grow both personally and professionally. It provided a deep understanding of Shoosmiths and its position within the legal landscape. I gained insight into what lawyers do beyond billable hours—the business side of running a law firm, growing client relationships, and contributing to the firm’s overarching goals. These are areas you don’t typically learn about in your degree but are crucial for success in the legal profession.
This understanding proved invaluable during the assessment centre, particularly for activities like the client presentation. Knowing what a law firm aims to achieve and what clients need gave me a solid foundation to approach tasks with confidence and insight. The placement also helped me grasp how the day-to-day role of a lawyer fits within the larger ambitions of the firm.
Why I recommend the discover placement
If you’re considering applying for the Discover scheme, my advice is simple: go for it. The placement offers the best opportunity to experience Shoosmiths’ culture and values firsthand. After completing the scheme, I had no doubt that Shoosmiths was the right firm for me. This certainty gave me the motivation to perform my best during the assessment process, which ultimately paid off with a training contract offer.
The Discover scheme is not just about learning; it’s about building connections, gaining insights, and discovering whether a firm aligns with your values and career aspirations. For me, it ticked every box and more. If you’re looking for a placement that can genuinely shape your future in law, I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Finally, take my top tip for anyone applying to Shoosmiths. Take the time to truly understand the firm and why it’s important to you. Reaching out to current trainees on LinkedIn or attending Shoosmiths webinars and events can help you gain firsthand insights. Asking thoughtful questions and learning directly from those involved in the firm can give you a genuine understanding to strengthen and tailor your application. If anyone is currently applying and would like some advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to me!
You can learn more about our Discover Vacation Placement and Mentoring Scheme here.
You can get in touch with us about career-related queries at [email protected].
Disclaimer
This information is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. Please contact us for specific advice on your circumstances. © Shoosmiths LLP 2025.