Information hub

5 Minutes with Future Trainee, Lauren Richardson

What University did you attend?
The University of Nottingham

What subject are you studying?
I am currently completing the GDL at the University of Law, having previously studied History and Politics for my undergraduate degree.

When do you join as a trainee?
I will join as a trainee in August 2018.

How did you hear about Shearman & Sterling?
I attended a Shearman & Sterling campus presentation at the University of Nottingham.

What made you apply?
I was attracted to the high-profile, multi-jurisdictional nature of Shearman & Sterling’s work and ultimately the firm’s ability to successfully compete with other elite global law firms. The international dimension of the firm was particularly important for me, as I want to gain experience working in overseas offices whilst being a trainee. The opportunity therefore to complete a seat rotation abroad was a key motivation to apply.

On a more personal level, I want to be part of a relatively smaller trainee intake where I will be valued as an individual and given greater responsibility during my training contract.

How did you approach the initial application form?
I took time to gather a genuine understanding of the firm’s market positioning and the nature of Shearman & Sterling’s work. This research then enabled me to tailor my application form specifically towards the firm. Moreover, it gave me confidence to discuss more interesting aspects of each question and importantly helped me to differentiate myself from other applicants.

What made Shearman & Sterling different to other firms?
I think Shearman & Sterling’s working culture and its people are two distinguishing factors. During my vacation scheme, I was encouraged to voice my own ideas and opinions in relation to certain tasks. Initially this was quite daunting, but I genuinely believed the associates with whom I was working with valued my contribution – even as a vac schemer! I was welcomed into the team and was not made to feel like a burden.

Even during the assessment process, it was clear that the firm valued my personal perspective on areas I was questioned about. There was a real sense during my interviews that the firm’s partners and Graduate Recruitment team wanted to get to know me and what I could bring to the firm.

What made you accept?
The collaborative working culture of Shearman & Sterling, coupled with the firm’s investment in the professional development of its people, confirmed that this was a firm which I wanted to be a part of. The extremely positive experience I had with the firm during my winter vacation scheme helped me to be certain that my career aspirations would be fulfilled within Shearman & Sterling; knowing that I would be challenged daily but within a fully supportive team environment.

What advice would you give to others who are interested in Shearman & Sterling?
For me, it was my experience on the winter vacation scheme that really helped me understand Shearman & Sterling’s culture, so I would suggest to those who are interested to try and gain some personal interaction with the firm. This does not have to be a vacation scheme necessarily, attending events and presentations, as I also did, does give you an insight into what the firm offers and what daily working life is like at Shearman & Sterling.