Hi Charlotte - great name!Hi everyone I hope you’re having a good morning! I have two questions if that’s okay. My first question is what does the application process look like for a first year scheme and my second is what type of attributes do you look for in applications to Reed Smith? Thank you in advance!
To answer your first question:
The application for the first year scheme is very similar to the vacation scheme. You will submit a written application, with questions along the lines of: why you are applying to the first year scheme, and why you are interested in law. We then have a blended assessment comprised of both scenario-based and video-based elements. We do not have a case study stage for first year scheme applicants, as this is something that we workshop whilst on the scheme itself.
On your second question:
I am afraid I have the same answer for all questions like this, and that is: try not to worry too much about exactly what we're looking for and think more about what you can bring to the role. All of our trainees have lots of different attributes and this is what makes them work well together. That being said, think about the typical trainee competencies (e.g. teamwork, collaboration, creativity, leadership, time management) and start to think about some personal examples of when you've demonstrated them - doesn't have to be legal experience! This will help you start to develop a narrative around why you are right for the role.