ÆÞÓÑÉçÇø

On the first day we took part in an welcome session, commercial negotiation exercise, insight into different deals, and Q&A panels. On the second day we had more insightful and informative talks and panels, before engaging in a few hours of work shadowing with an assigned trainee.

Yes, I've learnt more about negotiating, technical and critical thinking skills, and interpersonal skills. I have also developed my knowledge of typical trainee tasks, and what life is like at an elite law firm.

Understanding more about the business and potential roles available at Herbert Smith Freehills was incredibly insightful. It gave me a clearer picture of how a global law firm operates, especially how different practice areas interact on complex, cross-border matters. Learning about the role of a trainee was also very enriching, as it made the path from student to solicitor feel much more tangible. Overall, it helped confirm my interest in pursuing commercial law and made me more motivated to work towards a training contract at a firm like HSF.

The culture at HSF came across as welcoming, friendly, and genuinely inclusive. All the trainees and partners were approachable, positive, and open to answering questions, which elevated the experience overall. Ultimately, the atmosphere was ambitious yet also down-to-earth, and has made me more excited about the idea of potentially building a career at the firm.

I thoroughly enjoyed the insight — it was incredibly engaging, well-structured, and genuinely eye-opening. The sessions were informative yet approachable, and I appreciated how they balanced technical learning with personal stories from trainees and associates. It was especially inspiring to hear from people at different stages of their careers, which gave me a clearer understanding of what a future at HSF could look like. The interactive elements made the day feel dynamic and inclusive, and I left feeling even more motivated to pursue a career in commercial law.

Yes

My biggest tip is to be authentic and show genuine curiosity. HSF values individuality and diversity, so let your personality and interests shine through in your application. I would also recommend doing thorough research — not just on the firm’s headline deals, but also on its culture, values, and global presence. Understanding what makes HSF distinct will help you tailor your application more meaningfully.