2025

Describe how you think the innovative developments taking place in the legal industry will change the role of a commercial lawyer at Dentons. Please outline your research and reference the sources you used to inform your opinion. (250 words)

Artificial Intelligence is having a massive impact on the work of commercial lawyers. It minimises the time spent on mundane tasks, such as reviewing certain spelling and grammatical errors, and is assisting lawyers with tasks such as compiling contract reports. The firm are already innovating within this area with its generative artificial intelligence tool called [redacted]. Unlike many other generative artificial intelligence tools, one can upload sensitive information to generate a useful output, whilst protecting the confidentiality of client documents. Lawyers at the firm can therefore feel more secure in their use of the tool and use it to progress deals and cases more efficiently compared to before. Additionally, the tool’s ability to generate more than [redacted] a minute along with its constant availability distinguishes it from several other similar tools with word limits, which places less restriction on its use by Dentons’ lawyers. As Dentons employs a strong and broad practice, the innovation of artificial intelligence will continue to benefit the firm massively, enhancing service delivery.

Additionally, there is an emphasis on improving professional development generally. This may result in the firm investing more in the [redacted] pillar of its innovation approach. Senior professionals may commit more time to providing feedback for less experienced lawyers. Lawyers from multiple practice areas may collaborate more to develop and provide resources and tools for training lawyers at Dentons, with a key facet of the firm’s training philosophy being the targeted roll out of technology. 

Sources: Dentons Open Day

Tell us about a recent instance when you asked for constructive feedback. Please outline 1) the context, 2) the feedback you received, 3) the learning points and 4) the actions you have taken to improve your performance. (250 words)

An instance when I asked for constructive feedback was within my role as a warehouse operative. I was required to pack customer orders within crates that were moving along a conveyor belt. I asked my supervisors for feedback regarding my performance, and the main concerns were regarding the speed of my work and a misunderstanding of how to correctly operate the machine. My supervisors recommended experimenting with a method that involved scanning an item multiple times if there were multiple of the same classification. Another method my supervisors advised me to use was scanning for the items before packing them and then pressing the button that determined I had completed packing a crate, as this is what determined the rate at which I was packing the crates. The managers also advised me regarding what buttons to press when there was an issue with the machine, as well as showing how I can move crates for the machine to work again. I reflected on the constructive feedback they gave me and decided to use it as motivation to improve my performance. I followed the advice of my supervisors and implemented all these methods into my work. I also ensured I ate more during my breaks to provide me with enough energy to work as efficiently as possible. Within a few days, I noticed that the time I took to pack crates decreased from approximately 13 seconds to 7 seconds, which meant I was one of the strongest performers in my department.  

Q3. What do you understand to be the day-to-day responsibilities of a commercial lawyer? What attracts you to this reality and which aspects do you anticipate to be most challenging for you to navigate? (250 words)

Trainees and junior associates may undertake research, and draft and review documents for due diligence or disclosure. However, junior associates may interact with clients more, working more independently and managing larger workloads. These responsibilities require skills I enjoy developing now, such as written communication and legal research, so this role allows me to undertake tasks that I enjoy professionally.

Senior associates and partners may help to coordinate the firm’s strategy for the matters they work on and the firm’s growth generally. Whilst they conduct significant research and draft sophisticated documents, they tend to delegate more tasks and supervise trainees and junior associates to support with their development and the progression of tasks. Partners are more senior and have more oversight over matters. The appeal of building stronger relationships with a range of clients and managing high profile matters massively excites me. 

The practice area a commercial lawyer works in is impactful, as transactional work will involve more negotiations and contractual work, whereas contentious cases may include more preparation for cases and courtroom appearances. Firms can specialise more in one type than the other, with some firms offering a full service, whilst others almost solely focusing on one. The prospect of undertaking a wide range of work appeals to me.

I anticipate a challenging aspect to be the amount of work I would have to contend with, alongside the arduous hours spent working, as these aspects are constantly emphasised within the commercial law sector. However, I believe it will be worthwhile.

Please explain the factors that influenced your decision to apply to Dentons and specifically to the office location you selected, focusing on aspects beyond the firm's global, polycentric structure. (250 words)

One aspect that drew to apply to Dentons was my interaction with the firm through the ‘Now to Next BME’ scholarship. I attended exclusive application workshops, an exclusive social for scholars, and the firm's open day in March, whilst also receiving a trainee mentor. These resources highlight how supportive Dentons’ is, and the firm's supportive culture can allow me to thrive and maximise my training and growth as a lawyer. Additionally, it displayed Dentons’ dedication to diversity and inclusion, as during the scholarship, achieving the target of increasing diversity and representation of people BAME heritage was constantly reinforced. This personally resonates with me as someone of Nigerian heritage, therefore making the firm more appealing to me. 

The emphasis that the firm places on responsible business appeals to me, as many firms tend not to highlight the moral or ethical aspects of their work. It is evident that Dentons do not only value profit, but also client satisfaction and corporate social responsibility equally. My role as a clearer highlighted to me the importance of customer satisfaction, so this aspect of Dentons’ work personally resonates with me. 

I am applying specifically to the London office as I live closest to this office, meaning the commute will not be too time consuming nor expensive, and I would not have to factor in the cost of accommodation. This would make working long hours and working later at the firm much easier, allowing me to be more productive for the firm, especially as a trainee. 

2024

Please tell us about a current issue or news article that has interested you. How might the topic be relevant to Dentons and our clients? (250 words)

The collapse of Wilko and the subsequent questioning of its executives by MPs on the Business and Trade Select Committee recently interested me. Following widespread redundancies and high-street closures, Wilko's closure is representative of a trend affecting numerous shops and brands, resulting in substantial job losses. This story interested me not only because it signifies a pressing need for employment advice amid 12,000 redundancies but also because it places immense pressure on Wilko to adhere to proper redundancy procedures, mitigating potential legal repercussions from workers affected by the redundancy processes. The scrutiny by the Business and Trade Select Committee adds an additional layer of political interest and media attention to potential cover-ups of dividend pay-outs and deficits in Wilkos pension funds, particularly as Wilko is a prominent UK chain business.

This story is relevant for Dentons as it intersects with property and employment market issues. The decline of high street shops has a cascading effect on the turnover of commercial leases, impacting landlords' considerations of lease deposits, duration, and costs. Given the current high cost of living and the increased likelihood of smaller businesses defaulting on rent payments, landlords will face challenges in navigating commercial leases, necessitating advice on market regulations and restrictions. On the employment front, the decline of big businesses like Wilko contributes to increased job market competition, emphasising the importance of fair hiring processes. It may also prompt businesses to internally review their procedures following Wilko's business failures, including reassessing pension schemes to ensure regulatory compliance.

Describe a scenario (outside of an academic environment) where you demonstrated your determination and ambition by conquering a significant challenge. What was the personal challenge and what were the actions that you took to overcome or succeed at the challenge. (250 words)

One personal challenge I encountered was balancing my academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, and personal goals. As someone who thrives on new experiences and opportunities, I found it challenging to strike a balance, often overcommitting myself and neglecting essential study time. This became evident in some upsetting first-year grades. 

Recognising the need for change, I took steps to prioritise and manage my commitments effectively. Learning to say no to additional work shifts when short-staffed during periods of heavy academic load was a crucial decision. To ensure better time management and stress relief, I implemented practical strategies. Creating study timetables and sharing a calendar with my flatmates allowed us to allocate dedicated time for daily walks, creating a healthier work-life balance. 

Additionally, I was able to prioritise my running and fitness goals to make me more productive; waking up earlier, for example, meant I could fit more into my day. It also meant I had time to engage in extracurricular activities which aligned with my values, such as volunteering for Action for Refugees and participating in pro bono Citizens Advice. 

These adjustments not only led to improved academic performance but also reinforced my ability to navigate challenges with determination and strategic thinking. This experience honed my organisational skills, time management, and the importance of setting boundaries to achieve both personal and professional success. It is a challenge that I am continuing to overcome, but one that I believe I have achieved a better balance with over the past three years. 

Why commercial law? (250 words)

Having taken the opportunity to study both public and private law sectors at university, I've developed a keen interest in commercial law and the dynamic operations of the legal business sector. When [redacted]  I developed these skills in a legal context, analysing domestic legislation and regulations to provide advice for clients on a range of issues. This experience has honed my analytical reasoning, allowing me to convey complex legal information in an accessible manner for clients. Additionally, my time in [redacted] has accustomed me to client-facing roles and delivering excellent customer service. As such, working in commercial law is an opportunity to leverage my client relations skills while applying my legal knowledge to offer innovative business solutions. 

Another intrigue about working in commercial law is its breadth, spanning various practice areas and intersecting with cultural and economic shifts. I am fascinated by emerging industries and challenges, such as the integration of Artificial Intelligence in law firms' processes like due diligence, creating human comparable results. Actively participating in firm open days, [redacted] has expanded my awareness of issues shaping the legal market. I have found engaging in these opportunities has helped form my understanding of the diverse range of work in the commercial sector which solidifies my enthusiasm for pursuing a career in commercial law.

2023

Q1. Please tell us about a current issue or news article that has interested you. How might the topic be relevant to Dentons and our clients?

Max 250 words

ESG factors gaining greater prominence in driving business strategy is a current issue that interests me. My interest in this issue stems from my engagement in the Linklaters ‘Pitch for Change’ competition where I analysed ESG concerns for businesses. Increased scrutiny of ESG factors by stakeholders is driving private capital and public funds towards green and sustainable purposes. According to a PwC report, 79% of global investors consider ESG factors before investing. Additionally, the UK Government is introducing economy-wide ‘Sustainability Disclosure Requirements’ and a UK Green Taxonomy by the end of 2022. 

Growing market trends to incorporate wider ESG factors is relevant to Dentons as it is affecting banks, one of Dentons’ biggest clients. Its relevance is seen as Barclays, a client has pledged a net-zero target by 2050. Other clients like HSBC and Lloyds have pledged similar targets by 2030, while sustainability-linked transactions have increased 50% since 2020 as per Bloomberg.  

Clients will need lawyers with deep expertise in financial products and sustainability. Dentons bespoke finance team along with its global ESG team is well-placed to guide clients. Evidence of this is Denton's advice to NEPI Rockcastle on green and ESG-linked financing transactions. Alternatively, the ESG implementations may give rise to potential ‘greenwashing’ concerns and litigation. However, Dentons is well placed to support clients in such events through its dedicated ESG litigation and greenwashing team. In fact, ESG is part of Dentons' New Dynamic offer to clients. This exemplifies the relevance of these factors for Dentons and its clients. 

Q2. Tell us about a challenge you have overcome that showcases your ambition and drive.

Max 250 words

This June, I entered a competition, where I had to solve problems for local communities. I lived in a small town in Karnataka where the main occupation of people was to grow coffee. Their main source of irrigation was rainwater but due to a shortage of rainfall, irrigation had become expensive which increased their operational costs substantially. During my survey of 100 coffee planters, I identified that coffee plants were being over-irrigated leading to excessive water usage and increased costs. 

I decided to tackle the over-irrigation problem. The challenge was to come up with a creative, cost-effective solution to help small planters save water and reduce costs. I designed an Arduino-programmed sensor (priced at £10) which calculated the aridity of the soil with respect to the irrigation needs of a coffee plant. I then attached the sensor to the valve of the drip irrigation systems. The sensor would then shut the water flow when the crops were irrigated. My solution helped save 660 gallons of water per acre, which translated into £750, a 25% cheaper irrigation cost per acre. 

I was driven to overcome this challenge as I come from a similar background and saw firsthand how this affected the community’s livelihood. I was ambitious in reaching the final stage of the competition as this enabled me to implement my idea and make a real difference. My drive and ambition also helped me achieve the ‘top 10 community problem solvers’ title among 2500 participants. 

Q3. Why have you decided to pursue a career in commercial law?

Max 250 words

My interest in the business world led me to study commerce, accountancy, and economics in school. For my business project, I analysed the acquisition of Ranbaxy Laboratories by Sun Pharmaceuticals for $3.2 billion. Evaluating how a smaller company by revenue and size could acquire a larger company through equity financing gave me a strong understanding of M&A and finance. I was intrigued by the legal aspects of the deal which propelled me to intern at a local law firm. During my internship, I undertook legal research, drafted case summaries, and assisted on a tax waiver case. I enjoyed engaging in work similar to that of commercial lawyers and it motivated me to pursue a career in commercial law. 

At university, I participated in mooting and negotiation competitions, attended 5 open days, and interned at the [redacted]. I also volunteer as a legal student advisor at the [redacted], where I conduct client meetings and draft advice letters to help clients with company law-related matters. These experiences gave me further exposure to a commercial lawyer’s work. This summer, I interned in the corporate credit and legal compliance department of India’s second-largest national bank. I enjoyed analysing company financials and calculating ratios to determine the lending facilities for various companies. However, I was drawn more to my work in legal compliance where I undertook due diligence, ensured compliance, and assisted in analysing the regulatory impact on transactions. This further cemented my interest to pursue a career in commercial law. 

Q4. Why have you chosen to apply to Dentons?

Max 250 words

Dentons' bespoke banking and finance expertise fascinates me. It won the Finance Team of the Year at The Lawyer Awards 2021. This attracts me to the firm and my interest in finance stems from my internship at India’s 2nd largest national bank. My participation in M&A workshops and negotiation competitions has driven my interest in corporate work and dispute resolution. Therefore, Denton’s full-service practice appeals to me as it can provide me with opportunities to receive high-quality training in different practice areas. 

Dentons’ polycentric structure facilitated by the Swiss Verein model has enabled it to grow organically in 83 countries. This approach has made Dentons the first and only global law firm to enter the world’s 5th largest economy, India. Having interned at a law firm and a bank in India, I understand the legal and commercial market of the country. Thus, the opportunity to work with Dentons’ global clients in important fast-growing markets like India appeals to me.

Being an ethnic minority, Dentons' motto ‘as diverse as you are’ inspires me. I witnessed the firm’s culture at the Insight Day and learnt that I could fit well in Dentons’ open, diverse, future-focused environment. Listening to partner, Esther McDermott I learnt that Dentons commits 17,655 hours and £4.1 million worth of work towards pro bono and CSR. Volunteering as a Legal Student Advisor at the [redacted] has made me value pro bono work and inspired me further to apply to Dentons.

2022

Please tell us about your extracurricular activities and any positions of responsibility you've held as part of these.

I was a Social Events Committee Member of the [overseas university in western Europe] Law Society, where I collaborated with 8 other students to organise the 2019 European Career Day. I researched potential speakers and persuaded notable figures such as eBay’s Head of EU Affairs and the UK Parliament’s Counsel to the Joint Committee on Human Rights to speak at the event. I also promoted the event on social media and by handing out flyers, resulting in over 250 people attending.

Additionally, I assisted in organising and executing [overseas university in western Europe] University’s 2018 International Alternative Dispute Resolution Conference. I developed my interpersonal and communication skills by strategically using my fluency in 4 languages to build rapport with legal professionals and subsequently convincing them to sit on the Conferences panel.

I participated in [overseas university in western Europe] University's 2019 Research Based Learning Excellence Programme. I effectively processed, contextualised and collated complex findings on the implications of software failures in autonomous vehicles with other participants across various faculties. I developed my problem-solving and creative thinking skills, when I looked beyond domestic laws and interviewed stakeholders, including scientific and legal advisors at the [national] Safety Board, to understand and solve the issue from a policy perspective.

I volunteered in a local kindergarten in Brazil, where I tutored children living in extreme poverty. I taught the children simple English phrases and Portuguese grammar. My empathetic approach towards helping others assisted me in carefully listening and thoroughly understanding the children's intellectual weaknesses, which allowed me to tailor my teaching method to the children's needs.

Tell us about a challenge you have overcome that showcases your ambition and drive.

As a project manager for the writing process of a book named Unleash Today, I am responsible for leading a team of 19 people located in 8 different countries. I ensure project deadlines are met, that there is clear communication amongst team members, and keep my team motivated. I was faced with two challenges; to maintain effective team collaboration across multiple time-zones and language barriers, and quickly grasp a subject matter I had little knowledge of, the process of publishing a book.

To improve team collaboration, I created task-focused sub-teams such as an editing and writing team and a marketing and promotion team. I then introduced the role of a sub-team leader who managed the sub-teams workflow. Additionally, I utilised different collaboration platforms, such as Trello, to coordinate the work allocation, timetable planning and logistics of the project. To keep everyone engaged, I introduced fortnightly meetings, where we discussed the challenges each team member was facing and collaborated on potential solutions. To overcome my lack of knowledge about publishing, I used various resources, including Skillshare videos by former authors. I was then able to use this knowledge to give structured guidance to achieve the project's future objectives.

By improving team productivity, communication, and collaboration between sub-teams, I was able to boost the project's online traction and popularity. As a result of my leadership, there has been a 455% increase in the project's LinkedIn followers, a 920% increase in website views, and a 730% increase in unique visitors in 4 months

Please explain why you have decided to pursue a career in commercial law.

I am drawn to commercial law due to a commercial solicitor’s multifaceted role when advancing clients’ business objectives. In the European Corporate Finance Law Excellence Programme, I was tasked with solving case studies focused on corporate finance transactions. For instance, I advised an investment fund on the takeover of a technology start-up. I conducted legal due diligence, wrote a legal advice note on the funds acquisition financing options and subsequently negotiated, and drafted, a share purchase agreement. I enjoyed constructing arguments and proactively combining my legal knowledge with my understanding of the technology industry. Providing tailored legal advice that contributes to the client’s strategy, allowing them to mitigate their risks and satisfy their financial objectives, is something that I find mentally stimulating and extremely rewarding.

Subsequently, I secured a position as a corporate paralegal at the [city in western Europe] Institute of Corporate Law. Here, I utilised my legal knowledge by analysing issues concerning corporate governance and corporate social responsibility. When writing a report on short-term decision-making by businesses, and the financial impact for stakeholders thereof, I conducted legal research to identify shortcomings in regulation and analysed the impact of different ownership structures on a business long-term profitability. The opportunity to use my strategic and critical thinking skills to reach sound conclusions, and persuasive writing to present findings convincingly, paralegal, where I find investigating fact patterns and identifying key documents to assist my client exciting.

Why have you chosen to apply to Dentons and why in this location?

Given my multinational background and global outlook, I find Dentons’ global work and international presence, with 188 offices in 77 countries, appealing. At the Legal Cheek Virtual Law Fair, I discussed the firm's multi-jurisdictional work and the diversity of its employees with Ivan Jelocnik. My work experience in 4 different continents has been influential in developing my understanding of cultural and geographical sensitivities. I am eager to utilise my fluency in 4 languages and understanding of different markets when advising international clients and when collaborating with colleagues globally.

Furthermore, I am drawn to Dentons’ innovative use of technology through programmes such as Nextlaw labs and the innovation module for trainees. This resonates with me as I previously enjoyed working on creating a data model that used machine learning to predict decisions of the EU Commission when determining fines in EU competition law breaches.

I am attracted to Dentons’ London office because of its high-quality banking and finance work. My interest in this practice area developed during a case study I participated in at Allen & Overy’s Amsterdam office. I advised the client on the issuance of a senior corporate bond in the debt capital markets for a furniture retailer expanding into India. As a LittleLaw legal content writer, I write reports on finance-related topics such as Ant Group’s raising of capital as part of its planned initial public offering. Through the guaranteed seat in banking, I could continue to pursue this interest, whilst learning from lawyers leading in this field.

2022

Extra-curricular (250)

Firstly, I am currently a Legal Cheek Campus Ambassador for the University of Law’s Moorgate campus. In this role, I market the brand weekly through the library and employability newsletters, to increase student engagement with the website. 

Moreover, I am a passionate hockey player, having played for the past ten years. At Exeter University Men’s Hockey Club, I was elected by over 150-members, to be captain of the 4th team and the club’s development officer. In these roles, I aspired to improve the club's culture on and off the pitch, create a new cohort of sustainable umpires and assist with administrative tasks for the first team. As captain, I was responsible for organising weekly team sheets, hire cars and kit across a twenty-man squad. As the club’s leading qualified umpire, I organised its weekly umpire rota and instructed numerous umpire training sessions. By the end of the year, I had trebled the number of qualified umpires at the club, thereby saving it hundreds of pounds through preventing external appointments. 

Finally, during my sixth form studies I was selected as one of six House Captains, on an 18-man student senior leadership team, within a year group of 250 pupils. Throughout this role, I delivered monthly presentations to over 180 pupils across all years, visited form groups weekly and organised teams for house events across the year.

Ultimately, these experiences portray a refinement of an extensive range of competencies, which I now want to implement into a career in commercial law.

Challenge (250)

Alongside my graduate diploma in law, I implemented a Movember fundraising campaign for the university. In collaboration with the Students’ Union, I managed the campaign, to raise awareness for men's mental and sexual health. I am extremely proud of this initiative, as it was the first time that the Students’ Union has tried to run a Movember campaign across all the University of Law’s UK campuses. 

This achievement was particularly difficult because of the campaign’s novelty. Initially, I found it challenging to generate and implement my ideas, due to the limited support from the Students’ Union. Only through my drive, consistent emails and prior organisation of a fundraising page and memo, did the Students’ Union support my aspirations. Upon receiving backing, I encouraged campuses to communicate with all students electronically, to increase the potential to hit our £300 target. 

Furthermore, this achievement was challenging because it forced me to revaluate my time management skills, during an extremely busy autumnal schedule. Alongside this campaign, I have been studying, writing for The Legal Update and been successful in reaching the final of the university's mooting and commercial awareness competitions. Finding the time to plan and attend meetings with Movember and Students’ Union representatives forced me to adapt my weekly agenda and communication skills. I have learnt to increase my efficiency and systematic approach to work. 

Ultimately, this project has raised money for an extremely important cause and continued the hugely topical debates on mental health and wellbeing in the legal profession.

Why law? (250)

My desire to be a commercial lawyer originates from practical and virtual legal experience. Most recently, I secured a vacation scheme at a leading regional firm, where I enjoyed carrying out commercial work across numerous sectors. In addition, legal exposure at corporate-focused city firms, the completion of legal courses and the attendance of open days and virtual events, shows I enjoy and would thrive in high-level legal environments. 

Through engaging with sector developments, I have established an interest into the function of lawyers beneath transactions and disputes. My previous legal exposure, work and sporting experience has informed a personal desire to work as part of a successful team and provide a comprehensive client service at an international firm. I am inspired by the opportunity to research and apply my legal and business knowledge to new circumstances, alongside a collaborative team. I ultimately believe that a career in law will continuously challenge my own intellectual capacity. 

Finally, my interest in law was captivated by the reputation of the profession and the prospect of resolving current and future global challenges. As a lawyer, I would be working alongside some of the most knowledgeable fee-earners in the profession. The complex and essential nature of legal work, alongside its fast-paced timelines, emphasises that a career in law would offer a constantly exciting, yet intellectually challenging prospect. The opportunity to engage and assist with clients on profiled takeovers or contentious matters, across a range of industries, underlines the potential for a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Why Dentons (250)

Firstly, by using Chambers UK, Legal 500 and the firm’s careers website, it became apparent that a career at Dentons would provide an exciting and diverse growth opportunity. 

My significant interest in Dentons relates to its principal rankings for litigious and corporate M&A work. I am particularly attracted to the firm’s broad practice specialisms, as they would provide me with a breadth of commercial exposure and client contact, thus elevating my training experience and legal professional development. The firm’s elite global rankings define its reputation and underlines trainee exposure to headline work, at the forefront of the legal industry. Through my previous legal experience and commercial awareness, I have developed a wider interest into how conflict resolution and dealmaking drives business opportunism. Given the profession’s client facing model, I would thrive off engaging with Dentons’ clients and implementing their ambitions within global economies.

By applying to Dentons, I want to immerse myself within its integrated global structure, as it would allow me to advise the firm’s geographic and industry-diverse client base. I am highly attracted to the firm’s full-service approach and close-knit deal teams, as it would encompass a greater level of responsibility, early in my career. With the largest global legal footprint, a training contract at Dentons would allow me to extend my client base, firm-wide network and industry knowledge, on an unprecedented scale. I am excited by the opportunity to collaborate and assist on cross-border work, with the aim of bringing profitable and sustainable business into the firm.

2022

Please explain why you have decided to pursue a career in commercial law.

My interest in commercial law began at university, whilst undertaking legal internships at two distinct organizations. My first internship, within the in-house legal team at [organisation], consisted of assisting HR with employment issues, carrying out legal research to ensure compliance with banking regulations, and drafting agreements. This allowed me to offer general legal advice and an understanding of the law to the organisation. However, although I enjoyed solving business-specific problems, I disliked the in-house 'generalist' approach of providing day-to-day legal support to one business – the bank – acting as the middle-ground between the business and outside counsel. Rather, I sought a specialised role which would offer more high-profile client contact and an exciting, fast-paced, transactional environment.

My second internship within a larger law firm focused M&A, private equity,

financial services and litigation. I thrived when conducting meetings with large clients such as venture capital funds and investment banks. I found the high-levels of interaction between practice areas – e.g. collaboration between project finance and real estate during an apartment complex transaction – more attractive than the 'sole-legal-department' approach adopted by in-house legal teams. My ability to use initiative when solving complex problems and adapt to new departments enabled me to receive positive feedback from the Partners that I worked alongside, demonstrating that I am ready to start my Training Contract at Dentons. Dentons small trainee intake and high expectations of trainees correspond with my desire to apply my dedicated work ethic to intellectual challenges and further my career post-qualification.

Why have you chosen to apply to Dentons and why in this location?

I am attracted to Denton's aggressive international expansion. Having spoken to trainee [name], I have learnt that Dentons has a polycentric culture, utilising the Swiss Verein model to share branding internationally but keeping businesses financially separate. Having worked in [country], I like that Dentons has merged with [local company], winning the title 'The Largest Law Firm' with 6,600 lawyers in 120 offices. I am excited to expand my existing cultural awareness during an international secondment within the [country] office.

Second, I find Dentons' commitment to innovation attractive. I like that Dentons has acted upon its goal of facilitating 'smarter work' - creating NextLaw - the industry's leading technology/innovation catalyst. It is impressive that the CGO of NextLaw - Markowich - has been recognised as one of five women leaders in the legal community. I am excited at the opportunity to contribute to the firm's work on innovation and diversity.

I am applying to the Farringdon office as London provides unrivalled access to global-markets. As an aspiring commercial solicitor, it makes sense for me to train within a jurisdiction which offers the opportunity to complete international transactions, as parties to international-contracts often select English law as the governing law of agreements. I like that London is a world centre for arbitration, with the London Court of Arbitration remaining a leading institution for dispute resolution.