Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati

"I wish I had talked more to partners about career development"

"On the work front, the firm generally seems to be supportive of female associates, though there is something of a "boys club" feel. I haven't had problems getting good opportunities and the types of work that I want, and I feel I have good working relationships all around - associates and partners are approachable and willing to help and answer questions. I've had some very positive experiences, and great mentorship. But I'm not generally included in some of the boys club-types of social activities... I can't say that I particularly want to go smoke cigars after work or stay out till 1 a.m. drinking, but I do worry that there may come a time that that puts me at a disadvantage."

"N/A"

"This firm has great working mom policies in place, but not everyone follows them. I am the first woman in the group to ever take maternity leave, and it was pretty apparent that not everyone knew how to appropriately handle it. To say the very least, it was challenging to go out on maternity leave (though I took the full leave despite naysayers) and even more challenging to return to the stigma of having taken maternity leave. However, since then, the firm/group has recognized the errs of its ways (its illegal for one, but also a terrible attitude and culture to have) and now they are taking strides to allow me to reintegrate into the group. Its difficult being a female in a group largely dominated by men. Certain partners clearly think its a Boys Club. But there are rising female stars and at least a couple women in leadership who seem to be trying to make it better for those that come after. I'd say, be prepared to deal with a little uneven treatment. But if you can tough it out until you find the right mentors, then the world is your oyster."

"The quality of life for women in this firm can vary dramatically depending on which location you work and what partner and/or senior associate attorneys you work under. While this firm has a good proportion of female partners and senior associates as compared to other firms, the women who make partner have nannies and are available to work essentially 24/7. That said, I don't think there is much of a stigma associated with a woman who takes a few months of maternity leave, as long as she has a good reputation as a valuable to the firm before doing so. According to word of mouth, a woman with children is more likely to be given permission to work reduced time than a male attorney or a woman without children. Being able to work reduced time is up to the partner you work under, so, again, one's practice area and location are really important in determining work/life balance."