2025

Please give a brief summary of any prizes, scholarships, positions of responsibility and any other noteworthy achievements gained at School, University, Law School or in employment. (100 words)

At university, I was appointed as the [redacted] Brand Ambassador, responsible for representing the firm on campus, driving traffic to its early careers website, and acting as a point of contact. I also promote [redacted] opportunities through social media and live events. As a Brand Ambassador for the Commercial Law Academy, I convey commercial topics to students and drive traffic to the platform. Additionally, as [redacted] at [redacted], I manage the diary and access for properties, taking into account factors like property size, potential questions, and travel time between viewings.

Please give a brief summary of any activities you've been involved in outside academic study or work over the last four years. (100 words)

Outside of academics and employment, I am a dedicated mentor with Zero Gravity, where I guide students from underrepresented backgrounds to achieve academic and career success, reflecting my passion for social mobility and inclusion. I am committed to supporting diversity in the legal profession, helping to create equal opportunities for all. My year traveling and working across the Philippines, Vietnam, and Australia has also instilled a global mindset and adaptability, crucial for thriving in Jones Day’s truly international environment. Additionally, I am an avid hiker, having climbed over 60 mountains, including Vietnam's highest peak, Fansipan.

Please type your cover letter below to be read by the Graduate Recruitment Manager. You do not need to address it to a person or to include your/our address. (300 words)

Commercial law sits at the beating heart of business, economics, politics, and law. It is for this reason that I am drawn to this field, where I can contribute to cross-border transactions and shape the success of global businesses. Jones Day’s representation of clients like Google and Goldman Sachs, and its reputation for handling complex, cross-border cases, perfectly aligns with my ambition to work at the intersection of these critical areas.

I believe my global mindset and diverse experiences make me a strong fit for Jones Day. Having worked across two continents and travelled to three, I’ve developed adaptability, resilience, and an ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. My roles as [redacted] and Commercial Law Academy Brand Ambassador demonstrate my ability to represent a world-class organisation, drive engagement, and convey complex ideas. Additionally, my work as a mentor with Zero Gravity reflects my commitment to social mobility and inclusion—values that align with Jones Day’s dedication to diversity, equality, and fostering an inclusive culture. These experiences, combined with my drive, position me well to thrive in Jones Day’s fast-paced, global environment.

What sets Jones Day apart is the non-rotational training contract, which allows trainees to see matters through from start to finish while building deeper relationships with colleagues and clients across multiple practice areas. The firm’s “one firm worldwide” approach, where clients engage the entire firm rather than individual lawyers, is a model that resonates with my collaborative nature. With strengths in areas such as cross-border M&A, civil fraud, and real estate, I am particularly excited to develop my skills across these key sectors. Jones Day’s pro bono initiatives, such as the Unaccompanied Children Project, further demonstrate the firm’s commitment to meaningful social impact, which is something I am eager to contribute to.

Have you have chosen to use AI tools (such as ChatGPT) in your application? 99 words

I have used AI tools in my application, but rather than substituting my own work or misrepresenting my skills, I’ve used AI to fine-tune my writing and ensure clarity. As AI is already being implemented by lawyers, using it in this process has been a valuable exercise in becoming comfortable with this emerging technology. By using AI responsibly, I’m enhancing my applications while staying true to my own voice, and preparing myself to work effectively with the AI tools that are shaping the future of the legal profession.

2024

I am a graduate in English from Oxford University, hoping for a place on your winter vacation scheme. Studying for my degree, I learned to base arguments closely on a text. I was proud to graduate with first class honours and credit that success to my skills in language analysis and attention to detail. Completing job simulations developed by law firms, including Jones Day, I discovered how these skills could be transferred to commercial law. 

When completing Jones Day’s job simulation, I turned my textual focus to legislation. I used the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 when analysing the key points of an international lease agreement and read the Enterprise Act 2002 while advising a client on the competition law issues raised by a proposed acquisition. These tasks challenged me to use skills I developed in my academic studies to evaluate whether an action would further a clients’ interests. 

Having thoroughly enjoyed each programme, I was drawn to Jones Day as a firm whose key practice areas of joint ventures, real estate and global disputes align with the experience I gained. I particularly enjoyed Herbert Smith Freehills’ programme on global disputes and am keen gain experience in litigation, so I was excited to see Jones Day ranked tier 1 for civil fraud by Legal 500. Jones Day’s programme centred around a joint venture in real estate, knowledge which I built on when completing Norton Rose Fulbright’s programme which also focused on a joint venture. Having enjoyed both the corporate and litigious sides of law, Jones Day’s non-rotational training contract would provide the ideal opportunity to explore my initial curiosity about each of these practice areas. As an independent, self-motivated individual, I would relish the control over my career that this system would give me.

Thank you for your consideration.

December 2023

Please type your cover letter below to be read by the Graduate Recruitment Manager. You do not need to address it to a person or to include your/our address. (300 words)

I am applying for the winter vacation scheme at Jones Day to experience the firm’s international approach, non-rotational training, and standout culture. Completing two vacation schemes this year, at [firm] and [firm], has not only solidified my commitment to a career in commercial law, but also clarified the type of firm I want to join; a globally united firm that excels across a variety of commercial departments, offering opportunities to work in cross-border teams on the most complex transactions and disputes. 

Having experienced a generalist approach to training at [firm], I am confident that Jones Day's distinctive seat structure would suit my learning style, offering me the intellectual stimulation to fully understand the problems I am solving, rather than being siloed to one aspect of a matter. The unique opportunity to manage my own work by walking the floors and knocking on doors aligns with my outgoing personality and drive to take initiative, while also enabling me to organically pursue my interests and forge meaningful connections across the firm. 

Pursuing a Masters whilst working as a [occupation] demands efficiency, strong organisational skills, and excellent time management. The fast-paced, open approach to work, enhanced by Jones Day’s small trainee intake, would lend itself well to the strong communication and interpersonal skills I’ve developed in both my work and extracurricular activities. 

After speaking with [name] and [name] at a recent open evening, it is clear that Jones Day has truly built a culture of unity and commitment. The firm’s core values promote high-quality work within a supportive, collegial environment which the lawyers are buying into. I would like to be a part of this vision. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

Yours faithfully, 

Extra Curricular Activities

Please give a brief summary of any prizes, scholarships, positions of responsibility and any other noteworthy achievements gained at School, University, Law School or in employment. (100 words) 

During my first term at university, a friend was spiked on a night out together. This incident motivated me to secure a leadership position in a new student-led society aimed at tackling sexual harassment on campus. My role entailed conducting workshops; managing ambassadors; and, the promotion and coordination of three sold-out events. 

At school I was elected Deputy Head Girl. My legacy was establishing a club to help younger students excel in their music and drama LAMDA exams. I was awarded music, drama and academic scholarships as a testament to my leadership skills and dedication to the arts. 

Please give a brief summary of any activities you've been involved in outside academic study or work over the last four years. (100 words) 

Last year, I co-designed a collaborative project with a [network] to combat anti-gender ideologies. In support of this, I routinely engage with prominent feminist scholars worldwide, convening bi-monthly webinars to explore their research. Intellectually challenging discussions with diverse audiences have honed my ability to navigate conflicting opinions and think quickly. Two years ago I directed my passion for theatre to perform a play at [event]. Engaging in these activities has taught me the importance of dedication, teamwork and perseverance, especially when things don’t always go as planned; qualities I will carry forward into any role. 

Have you completed Forage? (no word count)

I participated in the Jones Day Commercial Law Job Simulation to gain exposure to the typical tasks carried out by trainees. Completing tasks relating to different stages of a deal across the firm’s departments provided a more rounded perspective and comprehensive understanding of the transaction. The level of insight gained from this cross-practice approach highlights the advantages of Jones Day’s non-rotational training contract. 

I particularly enjoyed amending provisions into the joint ventures articles of association as the brief encouraged you to take initiative, highlighting the level of responsibility entrusted to trainees. I certainly gained a deeper understanding of how Jones Day encourages hands-on learning and the opportunity to take on meaningful tasks from the outset. 

Summer 2023

300-word cover letter

My interest in commercial law stems from my knowledge of the business world and my knack for debating. To further these interests, I participated in several open days and virtual legal work experiences. Having interned at two commercial law firms and India's 2nd largest bank, I developed an analytical mindset and business acumen, which motivated me to pursue a career in commercial law.

Jones Day’s unique non-rotational training contract attracts me. This approach allows greater responsibility and presents an opportunity to build expertise in one’s desired practice areas right from the onset of your career. I believe I would fit right in this model because of a similar experience during my internship at the [redacted], where I proactively took on work in the departments that appealed to me. 

Jones Day’s expertise in varied practice areas like private equity, civil fraud litigation, and corporate M&A, appeals to me. I am fascinated by the firm’s strategic commercial solutions. One such example is its design of the ‘Texas two-step’ strategy. Acting for J&J earlier this year, Jones Day used its clever restructuring manoeuvres and halted personal injury claims which could have dragged on for years. My interest in these practice areas stems from being a self-taught investor and attending M&A workshops.

I am also interested in pursuing a career at Jones Day because of its ‘One Firm Worldwide’ culture. This approach enables the firm to deliver seamless service to clients by collaborating with its international office network. A testament to this is the firm’s winning of “Most Recommended” Law firm by General Counsel for 17 consecutive years. I am motivated to apply to the firm as I resonate with its globalism, through my proficiency in six languages and work experiences in the UK and India.

2023

Cover Letter

I developed an interest in commercial law whilst studying Business Law and Practice during the LPC. Here I was exposed to different areas of commercial law, which fascinated me due to the combination of black letter law with commercial considerations. Completing a vacation scheme at Travers Smith further cemented this interest. During a mock M&A negotiation, I enjoyed working collaboratively to critically analyse the heads of terms alongside our client's instructions. This exposed me to the strategic nature of commercial law, where I was required to provide legal advice whilst considering the risks involved and the client's overarching business goals. My strong commercial knowledge of current affairs, including rising oil prices and ESG considerations, strengthened our client's case. I am keen to become an international commercial lawyer and apply my interpersonal skills to market-leading transactions.

I am attracted to Jones Day's expertise in complex, multi-jurisdictional matters, evidenced by advising Orange on its €18.6 billion merger with Masmovil. This deal piqued my interest as an Orange shareholder and is impressive as it involved lawyers working across six global offices and negotiating with multiple financial institutions. This deal demonstrates how well Jones Day can pull together to provide multidisciplinary and international legal advice to its clients. I have strong teamwork skills, developed from running a restaurant with six individuals and working under pressure. I am also enthusiastic about building a network across the Firm's international offices.

Finally, Jones Day's unique non-rotational training contract provides trainees with early responsibility, allowing them to take ownership of their work. My work experiences demonstrate I would flourish under such conditions. I have effectively managed five high-responsibility positions, including being a tutor and a legal researcher. I was personally selected to interview a Senior Vice President at Morgan Stanley because of my curious nature and vibrant personality.

Please give a brief summary of any prizes, scholarships, positions of responsibility and any other noteworthy achievements gained at School, University, Law School or in employment.

Out of my sixth-form cohort, I was awarded the Regent Prize for my academic dedication and attended a House of Lords academic award ceremony.

Following a competitive application process, I was awarded the BPP Career Commitment scholarship for the GDL and the Aspiring Solicitors Foundation BPP LPC scholarship.

Due to completing the GDL and the LPC with Distinction, BPP invited me to share my scholarship success and experience with aspiring lawyers for multiple webinars.

I established a scheme to tutor BPP students. The four students I tutored at least twice a week experienced an improvement in their grades by 30%.

Please give a brief summary of any activities you've been involved in outside academic study or work over the last four years.

I enjoy cooking ‘fusion’ food and showcasing my inventions. During the pandemic, I prepared 300 meals for vulnerable individuals. This challenged my organisation skills and ability to work under pressure as I created a production line, worked within short timeframes and adhered to individual preferences, including food allergies

2023

Please give a brief summary of any prizes, scholarships, positions of responsibility and any other noteworthy achievements gained at School, University, Law School or in employment.

In my second year, I ranked 5th in my cohort of 250+ LLB students. As Mooting Officer of the [society], we won the "Best Society for Mooting" award at LCN Society Awards. Alongside this, I founded the [society], and gained over 650+ followers through consistent student engagement. Prior to university, I served as Head Boy of my School, graduated Valedictorian and won the Captain's Cup for Exceptional Leadership. I was invited to the Hwa Chong Asia Pacific Young Leaders' Summit where I won the Best Presentation Award as the Indian delegate.

Please give a brief summary of any activities you've been involved in outside academic study or work over the last four years.

At school, I won the Best Delegate Awards at the two largest Model UN conferences in India, Ivy League Model UN conference and Harvard Model UN. At university, I won the Pan London Novices Debate, UCL President's Cup Debate and reached the Finals of Southampton Open. Further, I was my university’s adjudicator at the World University Debating Championships 2021. Moreover, I reached the finals of [university’s] most prestigious moot, [name of competition] as a first year, and achieved university’s best ever result at the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot, reaching the European Semi-Finals and ranking first in UK.

Please type your cover letter below to be read by the Graduate Recruitment Manager. You do not need to address it to a person or to include your/our address.

Commercial law uniquely reconciles my interest in law and business. Working through case studies during Hogan Lovells’ first-year scheme and experiencing the fast-paced nature of commercial law as a legal intern at Ernst & Young demonstrated how instrumental commercial solicitors are in fulfilling their clients' ambitions through the whole lifecycle of a deal. I am attracted to such intellectual challenges of solving varied legal and commercial problems, which I really enjoyed while scrutinising international commercial contracts for the Vis moot. Attending Jones Day's (JD) Open Evening highlighted JD's non-rotational training contract system and their collegiate work culture which I instantly connected with. Further my conversation with [name] a disputes associate, at the Bright Network Festival, highlighted how he tailored his training contract to work with the disputes team and was proactive to involve himself in different projects and make the most of his training contract. I realised that JD would spur my legal development given its non-rotational system allows finding the right fit for their lawyers where they can excel. By procuring and analysing legal resources and drafting memorials with my team for international moots, I have developed my legal research, problem solving and collaboration skills. JD's top ranked (Legal 500) disputes team provides an opportunity to utilise and develop these skills professionally while collaborating with the firm's seamlessly connected global "One Firm Worldwide" network. Further, as a summer intern at a financial services oriented executive search firm, I was proactive in extending my conversations with clients to understand their businesses which highlighted the increasing prominence of the private retail markets for private equity firms. This allowed me to shoulder the responsibility of more complex projects which was a great learning experience. My proactive nature would allow me to excel at JD while contributing effectively to their non-hierarchical structure.

2023

Please give a brief summary of any prizes, scholarships, positions of responsibility and any other noteworthy achievements gained at School, University, Law School or in employment. (100 words)

As a recipient of the Career Commitment Scholarship, BPP University has recognised my dedication to the legal profession. Moreover, earning an Academic Scholarship to Sixth Form was fulfilling in having my hard work recognised. Additionally, I represented my school as Academic Ambassador. In this role, I helped promote the school at open events, acted as a liaison between the teaching department and students, and oversaw the peer tutoring scheme to support pupils in their studies. In order to stimulate greater engagement with the pursuit of knowledge amongst the students, I also set up my own initiative, a STEM journal.

Please give a brief summary of any activities you've been involved in outside academic study or work over the last four years. (100 words)

As a keen sports enthusiast, I enjoy spending my free time being physically active and challenging my body and mind to be more resilient. Throughout university, I was a committed member of the LSE netball first team, participating in twice-weekly matches and regular training sessions. I also frequently attend a range of classes at my gym, from Pilates to weight training, focusing on improving my balance, stability, and strength. I find physical exercise complements my interest in keeping up-to-date with legal issues – exhibiting discipline and staying fit in both body and mind.

Cover Letter - you do not need to address it to a person (300 words)

I am currently undertaking the PGDL at BPP University following my BA International History degree at LSE, where I developed a meticulous approach to document analysis and production. I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to the law in my studies and work experience. In my second year, I elected to undertake Intellectual Property Law. Through my role as Volunteer Advisor at Citizens Advice, I have picked up knowledge of the regulations and legislation across topics from employment to immigration.

Jones Day stands out to me as a firm that offers its trainees a distinctive learning experience. The freedom to seek work across practice areas allows you to take charge and mould your own career from the outset, providing an unparalleled opportunity to continue exploring where my interests lie in the legal profession. During my Vacation Scheme at Penningtons Manches Cooper, I developed my written and communication skills in an employment law context and, interning at Colman Coyle, obtained insight into private client and property practices. At Jones Day, the strength of the disputes practice appeals to me. With asset values dropping and cashflow at risk due to supply chain disruption and the current economic climate, increasing unfulfilled contract obligations have resulted in an influx of litigation work. Moreover, the multi-jurisdictional character of such matters requires effective collaboration and adaptability, which I have consistently developed through team sports, namely LSE Netball First Team. From a trainee perspective, such global interaction provides access to a wide range of expertise, constituting an invaluable learning experience. The opportunity to take on real responsibility also makes clear that Jones Day would push me intellectually as a lawyer. Challenging oneself is the foundation of growth, and as personal development is what motivates me as an individual, I value the opportunity to acquire new knowledge and capabilities. 

January 2023

A career in commercial law appeals to me due to my experience with commercial negotiation and debating competitions. Attending insight days at several leading firms like Covington & Burling, Shearman & Sterling, and Davis Polk and completing a work experience programme with Fieldfisher have cemented my interests in this field. As a second year law with business student, I picked optional modules like contemporary legal issues in business management and European business context, where I enjoyed focusing on the practical applications of law in the commercial world. These experiences have motivated me to build a career in this sector. 

I’m interested in pursuing a career at Jones Day due to its high-quality cross-border work and its commitment focused work culture. Jones Day is currently present in 18 different jurisdictions with 42 offices across the globe. It’s ‘One Firm Worldwide’ philosophy allows it to deliver seamless trans-national service by placing client needs first, making it truly global. This is evidenced through top leverage finance partner, Lewis Grimm’s move from New York to London Office. Having gained work experiences in the UK and India, I’ve been exposed to commercial work in different jurisdictions. This puts me in a conducive position to work at a global firm like Jones Day.

I believe I’m better suited to train in the firm’s non-rotational seat structure. It would allow me to gain exposure to a broader variety of practice areas and work on all aspects of a transaction, seeing the matter through to the end. The work culture nurtured by the firm will enable me to take on high levels of responsibility and challenges from day one, pushing me to achieve my fullest potential. This approach feeds my proactive and determined personality, which I’ve cultivated through the volunteering and part-time opportunities undertaken at university. 

2021

Please type your cover letter below to be read by the Graduate Recruitment Manager. You do not need to address it to a person or to include your/our address.

I am interested in pursuing a career in commercial law due to both the intellectual stimulation and the personable aspect of the profession. I am also intrigued how the role of a commercial lawyer has changed to include one of a business advisor. During my work experience at [redacted law firm], I was tasked with understanding factors that may impact the firm or its clients’ sectors. For instance, I researched the Payment Protection Insurance deadline which was soon approaching, so the firm could advise clients accordingly.

After speaking to trainees from Jones Day at the SEO exclusive Insight Day at the firm, I am confident that the firm’s synergy between training, quality of work and high responsibility means I will maximise my potential within Jones Day's collegial atmosphere. The non-rotational training contract feeds my proactive personality, demonstrated through my various responsibilities such as volunteering and writing for my University Legal Clinic. My problem-based learning University course means that I am well equipped for the cross-practice work because I regularly unpick multi-faceted legal problems.

My work experience at [redacted firm] exposed me to some litigation cases, which spiked my interest in that area, and I developed an understanding of the importance of attention to detail. The focus placed on the intricacies in litigation fascinates me and so Jones Day is an obvious choice with its market-leading litigation practice.

Jones Day's fostering of a true partnership and international mobility enforces its “One Firm Worldwide” philosophy, also shown through its week-long induction in Washington, a true reflection of its widespread values. This philosophy allows Jones Day to deliver a seamless service to clients by collaborating with its international office network. My passion for travelling instils a global appreciation and so I am drawn to the international scope of Jones Day's transnational work.

2021

Please type your cover letter below to be read by the Graduate Recruitment Manager. You do not need to address it to a person or to include your/our address.

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to apply to Jones Day’s Summer Vacation Scheme 2021.

My interest in commercial law was stimulated by an acquisition case study that I took part in at LSE-PKU’s (Peking University) summer school during my gap year. I enjoyed understanding the relationship between the commercial context of the case and the legal issues at stake.

Jones Day’s distinctive non-rotational training programme attracts me as it will allows me to work across all departments during my training contract. Attending multiple law firms’ open days, I spoke with different trainees who worked across a wide range of interesting matters. This helped me realise that instead of pigeonholing myself into any particular type of work, I should focus on gaining exposure to various responsibilities to learn where my interest truly lies. Speaking to one of the firm’s trainees at LSE Law Fair, I can envision that one needs to be proactive and resilient in order to excel in the firm’s unique training programme.

Jones Day’s self-starting ethos is one that appeals to me. When my legal internship was cancelled due to Covid-19, I cold-emailed multiple law firms and networked with lawyers to secure another legal internship. During the legal internship, I actively sought out responsibilities and took on additional work reviewing, proofreading, and commenting on conflict of interest compliance documents. My resilience character was demonstrated when I passed the PADI Open Water Diver course this summer despite my fear of water caused by a past near-drowning experience. Albeit I was haunted by my traumatic memories when my coach wanted to replicate the oxygen depletion circumstances under the sea, but I persisted and eventually passed the test.

Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully,

[redacted name]

2021

Please type your cover letter below to be read by the Graduate Recruitment Manager. You do not need to address it to a person or to include your/our address.

There are three reasons why I am extremely keen to pursue a Training Contract at Jones Day.

Firstly, as Partner Ms Harriet mentioned, it is a one-firm partnership which makes it a consensus-driven organization across the globe. This homogenous culture is crucial for the firm’s international strategy. Having interned in a plethora of law firms across Singapore, India, and the UK, I have been exposed to the court processes in various jurisdictions, which puts me in a conducive position to work at a truly global law firm like Jones Day.

Secondly, the cutting-edge work is a huge draw. Juliette’s trainee work involving directly working in International Arbitration proceedings showcase the massive responsibility we shoulder from the get-go. Besides, the sheer scale of the work is evident from the firm having done the largest number of M&A deals for any law firm, recently advising Marathon Petroleum on a $23.3 billion acquisition. Being the president of 4 societies while managing 3 jobs alongside my law degree at Oxford, I have what it takes to succeed at innovative work while managing multiple responsibilities as a trainee at Jones Day.

Thirdly, the firm's culture embraces the entrepreneurial spirit. At 18, I founded my own education start-up in Singapore, and thus have always resonated with the go-getting spirit that permeates Jones Day. Trainee Sophie shared that the small trainee intake also meant that we had to actively seek opportunities to learn from the seniors at the firm. I am acutely aware of the rigorous challenges and expectations of trainees and am determined to rise to the challenge.

Thus, in a nutshell, I strongly resonate with the unified structure, cutting-edge work, and entrepreneurial culture of Jones Day and would be grateful for the opportunity to attend an interview for which I am available at your convenience.