Attending the vacation scheme – Anna Jones, Patent Assistant
“In 2022, I attended Boult’s vacation scheme just after finishing the penultimate year of my chemistry degree. Like many students approaching the end of university, I was beginning to consider what career I would like to pursue. I knew I wanted to use my chemistry background, but I could not see myself working in a lab. At the same time, I had always enjoyed reading and writing, so when I discovered patent law, it seemed like a natural fit. The vacation scheme was the perfect opportunity to explore the profession and find out more about Boult as a firm.
On the first day of the scheme, we were introduced to the different areas of intellectual property law, covering patents, designs, trade marks, copyright and trade secrets. Over the next two days, I took part in practical exercises that mirrored the day-to day work of a patent attorney, including tasks covering amendments, opposition, freedom-to-operate and drafting work. During these tasks, I worked in teams with other attendees and directly with partners and attorneys.
One of the aspects of the scheme that I particularly enjoyed was hearing from clients about how Boult had helped them protected their IP and how that IP had benefitted their businesses. It was great to see the real-life positive impact on individual clients that was provided by Boult’s expertise. What stood out to me from the scheme was how approachable and supportive everyone at Boult was. The firm came across as friendly and inclusive, whilst being very respected by its clients.
After the scheme, we were invited to a networking lunch, where we were able to meet trainees and attorneys in person. This was a great opportunity to ask questions about the job and the culture at Boult in a more informal setting. This was also a chance for the partners to meet the attendees and as a result, I was asked to apply for a trainee position following the scheme. I have now worked at Boult for almost two years.
The scheme gave me an invaluable insight into both the profession and Boult as a firm and by the end of the scheme, I knew I wanted to apply to become a patent attorney. I would recommend the vacation scheme to anyone considering a career as a patent or trade mark attorney, whether at Boult or elsewhere. It is a great way to discover what the role involves and to see first-hand how rewarding it can be.”
