Trainee Associate Gayathri, who studied Law at the University of Leicester took part in the Firm’s 2021 spring vacation scheme and will start as a trainee in September 2022. Find out what made Weil stand out to her and how the Firm’s culture shone through during the scheme…

Weil, for me, is friendly, welcoming and engaging.

I applied to Weil because, as a highly regarded international firm, working here would provide me with opportunities to undertake complex, transnational transactions for industry-leading clients. What really made Weil stand out during the spring vacation scheme was the Firm’s sizeable London office and trainee cohort, which facilitates an inclusive and friendly culture where trainees can build strong workplace relationships. The Firm’s smaller trainee intake also gives trainees higher levels of responsibility from an earlier stage and places you in the spotlight. Weil also gives trainees more ownership over their training contract, meaning no two trainees have the same experience.

While sitting in the Restructuring department during my spring vacation scheme, I was able to undertake live work for my supervisor. I helped draft a restructuring plan for a multijurisdictional restructuring and reviewed loan documents. I participated in several presentations about Weil’s practice areas, training contract and strategy. I also attended Weil’s Annual Pro Bono Awards, where I learnt about the numerous pro bono projects Weil undertakes across the Firm. Throughout the vacation scheme, we also took part in several assessments: a pro bono research project, a negotiation exercise, and a client pitch presentation. We also completed a training contract interview with two partners.

My supervisor and trainee buddy supported me by ensuring I understood how the live work I was completing fit into a deal. They also provided me with detailed feedback and offered advice for my assessments.

By explaining the wider context of her current transactions, my supervisor helped me understand how restructuring deals work in overview and how the team collaborates with other departments. Yohanna, Weil’s Early Careers & Development Manager, was always available if I had any questions during the scheme, or even just wanted to chat.

Weil’s culture is friendly, inclusive and supportive. I really enjoyed getting to know the people at Weil. Everyone was generous with their time, whether for a virtual chat or to help with live work and assessments. I also enjoyed being entrusted with real work because it gave me insight into what being a trainee at Weil would entail. I attended departmental meetings, a town hall meeting and even met the Managing Partner of the London office. I also received invites for virtual coffee chats from several people wanting to introduce themselves and get to know me, which made me feel like part of the Firm. The Firm even arranged two virtual socials during my scheme: an escape room and a paint party. As a trainee associate, I am in regular contact with Weil; I have attended information sessions, socials and diversity initiatives.

My top tips for applicants:

• My top tip to all candidates applying to Weil is to research extensively. By understanding what makes Weil unique, you can clearly demonstrate why you have chosen this Firm above others. This will also help you to consider how you can use your personal experiences to demonstrate that you are a good fit for the Firm.
• Secondly, identify what qualities Weil values in trainees. While Weil has no ‘typical trainee’, trainees work in close-knit teams and are encouraged to push themselves. Therefore, I would make sure you showcase teamwork, resilience, drive and communication skills.
• For the video interview and face-to-face interview, authenticity is key. Weil celebrates diversity and uses interviews to get to know your personality and what makes you unique, so being a well-rounded individual is a strength!

Want to develop your legal knowledge?

Enrol in our virtual experience programme, and gain hands-on experience of the type of tasks a trainee would get involved in while working in our Private Equity, Banking & Finance and Restructuring teams.