2025

Detail your extra curricular activities and interests and positions of responsibility. Please state what you feel you have gained from them and how others have benefited from your involvement. (250 words)

As a legal speaking coach for a start-up company, I delivered one-to-one English-speaking sessions via an exclusive platform to international lawyers from the top global law firms. These sessions developed my communication and interpersonal skills as I was able to effectively build a rapport and communicate with lawyers discussing various topics even with a language barrier. The lawyers I coached were able to significantly improve their English-speaking skills and pronunciation.  

As the Careers Lead in my university Law Society, I hosted various events with top law firms. I have developed a myriad of skills, namely problem-solving and resilience especially when problems would occur on short notice. How I handled these situations also shows my proactive nature and ability to adapt to unfamiliar situations. This role required me to host commercial awareness seminars, keeping up to date with current affairs. I also mentored various students on how to develop their commercial awareness and guided them with CV drafting to help them improve their applications. 

During my role as a note-taker in [redacted] Legal Advice Clinic, I attended a range of client meetings. This developed my understanding of how to select relevant information provided by a client, and the importance of keeping my notes clear and concise in a situation where I was under pressure to obtain information. This experience of conducting pro-bono work was incredibly important to me as a means of giving back to the community whilst providing others with legal advice and developing vital communication and drafting skills.

Why does a career in commercial law and specifically Sidley Austin interest you? (250 words)

My motivation to pursue a career in commercial law primarily stemmed from a placement in the finance department at [redacted]. I managed multiple cross-border transactions, drafted and negotiated key documents such as facility agreements and corporate authorisations, particularly enjoying the intricate and dynamic nature of transactions.

Commercial law fascinates me because it underpins complex transactions and drives economic growth and innovation. Lawyers are critical in driving and facilitating deals and I aspire to be at the forefront of such transactions. The dynamic blend of intellectual challenge and practical problem-solving aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

Sidley Austin stands out for its reputation in facilitating market-leading, cross-border transactions, especially finance and mid-market private equity deals. The firm recently represented Apollo, a leading private equity firm, in the acquisition of Evri, one of the UK’s largest parcel delivery companies. Similarly, the firm represented Clearlake in its acquisition of Chelsea Football Club further demonstrating its excellence and market reputation.  

Furthermore, the supportive and collaborative culture and strong emphasis on D&I, including the Asian lawyers retreat, resonates with me as a founder of the South Asian network at [redacted]. The pro-bono initiatives align with my commitment to community service through my pro-bono work at [redacted] Legal Advice Clinic and [redacted]. Additionally, Sidley Austin’s global presence with 22 offices offers great opportunities for secondments and the blend of providing both substantial responsibility for trainees to learn ‘on the job’ and formal training in some seats is vital for professional development.

Describe a current commercial issue that has interested you and explain why it interested you? (250 words)

A commercial issue that has recently caught my attention is the implementation of Basel Endgame under the Basel III framework, and its implications for law firms and their clients, particularly in the banking and financial services sectors.

In the current financial climate, lending against certain asset classes, like real estate, is becoming increasingly costly and risky for lenders. Regulations require banks to hold a specific amount of regulatory capital as a safeguard against this risk making real estate lending less attractive to mainstream banks. However, since these regulations apply only to banks and not to alternative lending providers, debt and private equity funds are emerging as more viable options for real estate financing.

With regulation diminishing banks’ appetite to lend directly to the borrower, this poses a challenge for banks as they will have to take on a new role as back leveraged providers, lending to debt or private equity funds instead, which will then finance the borrower. This could also challenge law firms, particularly if they lack strong relationships with alternative lenders, potentially hindering the growth of their real estate finance practice.

This interests me because it highlights the intersection of regulation, financial strategy, and legal services with an impact that could re-shape real estate lending portfolios entirely. Law firms must not only understand the technical details of Basel Endgame but also anticipate its commercial implications for their clients, representing a dynamic challenge that requires regulatory knowledge, commercial awareness, and strategic thinking.

In your view which personal qualities make a successful lawyer? (250 words)

Through my experiences, I believe there are three key qualities including intellectual curiosity, integrity and adaptability which will be pivotal in making a successful lawyer.

Intellectual curiosity is significantly important for a lawyer’s professional growth and development. The legal landscape is constantly evolving, with new laws, regulations, and precedents emerging regularly. This curiosity enables lawyers to think creatively and analytically, problem-solve, and develop innovative solutions for their clients. Similarly, proactively seeking opportunities to learn and develop on a range of various matters helps in understanding the commercial and legal implications of each matter. Willingness to ask questions and explore every aspect of transactions allows lawyers to provide insights and engage meaningfully with senior colleagues and clients. 

Integrity is the foundation of a lawyer's reputation as they are entrusted with sensitive, confidential information and significant responsibilities. Demonstrating integrity means being honest and transparent with both clients and colleagues, requiring effective communication skills. This enables lawyers to build trust and credibility and uphold accountability which are crucial for fostering long-term client relationships and maintaining respect with colleagues and other lawyers.

Finally, adaptability is another key quality needed as a lawyer as working environments, are constantly changing, especially when working under pressure or overcoming obstacles. An adaptable lawyer is able to remain calm and composed and still diligently deliver high quality, thorough work. This quality is also important to be able to work well in team, adapting to different working styles and flexibly re-prioritising my tasks if needed to ensure a seamless client service. 

2024

Why does a career in commercial law and specifically Sidley Austin interest you? (250 words)

Becoming a commercial lawyer positions me as a key player in major corporate moves, marrying my love for law, that I gained through my degree, and business, that I gained as a consultant and start up founder. 

Interning with the Investment Funds team at Rajah and Tann LLP, I drafted fund launch documents and conducted legal research, experiencing first-hand the pivotal role that lawyers play in driving investments that benefitted my community. I became particularly interested in private equity, as the business of flipping businesses, in a relatively shorter timeline, relies on making high-impact, rapid moves.

As an amateur boxer, Sidley Austin's (Sidley’s) representation of the Professional Fighters League for its US$100m investment first drew my attention to the firm, and its impressive clients such as EQT and Apollo show that they are commercial law’s undisputed champions. The firm being awarded "2022 Private Equity Practice Group of the Year" by Law360 promises that Sidley is the longest lever in a high-leverage career. 

As an Indonesian-Singaporean migrant who volunteers in migrant abuse centres, Sidley’s works with Pro Bono SG to educate migrant domestic workers on their employment rights impacts a community I hold dear. As a Student Union Committee Member, I have campaigned for international students' rights, emulating the firm’s commitment to marry legal knowledge and community impact.

After interning at various law firms, I discovered that smaller teams allowed me greater exposure and learning opportunities. Sidley’s down-to-earth culture, smaller trainee intake and leaner teams will spur my growth. 

Describe a current commercial issue that has interested you and explain why it interested you? (250 words) 

Under the Investment Funds internship, I was exposed to the rising private credit market. Private credit encompasses various lending types, including Leveraged Buyout and distressed debt lending, and boasts £1.3 trillion Assets Under Management. (Apollo now 100B in investments, 400B in Private Credit - acting as a bank) - much of it coming out of US banks, US firms have advantage.  

As interest rates rose, institutional banks hesitated to provide Private Equity (PE) firms with similar debt-to-equity ratios. Private credit firms stepped in, owing to PE firms' solid credit history, lending to and benefitting PE firms. For instance, moves like New Relic’s acquisition by Francisco Partners and TPG for £6.9 billion in an all-cash deal required PE firms to have access to such liquidity.  

Private credit's success lies in its confidentiality, certainty, and speed for borrowers. Customised contracts deter borrower exploitation, while stable pricing minimises volatility. A one-on-one lender-borrower relationship also improves problem-solving and yields higher recoveries.

The boom of private credit shows the rapidly changing nature of the financial world. In tumultuous times, firms adapt strategies and so must lawyers to attract clients. This interests me as it shows the dynamic, exciting landscape I inhibit as a commercial lawyer.

As my family was affected by the global financial crisis, seeing legislation coming out of the crisis sparking the boom of private credit was interesting too. PE firms not impacted by the laws that restricted banks coming out of the crisis have expanded themselves to giants that rival banks. This shows the importance of legislation while inspiring fear in me if PE firms have now become “too big to fail”. 

In your view which personal qualities make a successful lawyer? (250 words) 

Firstly, effective client management skills are crucial. Clients come to us at crucial, high-pressure points in their business. Lawyers are service providers, and our ability to communicate with clients are vital in client satisfaction, especially in Sidley where the reputation of legal excellence must be upheld. As a committee member in several societies, I have honed this skill in communicating professionally and effectively. 

Having initiative sets successful lawyers apart. Going the extra mile includes staying updated on industry trends, networking, and exploring new areas of expertise adds value to clients. It also means helping struggling colleagues and staying intellectually curious on weaker areas. Founding  "The Reading List," a commercial news newsletter showcases my self-starting nature to find new ways to develop myself and my team.

Ethical conduct is non-negotiable. Clients rely on lawyers, and the legal field is strictly regulated. Lawyers must prioritise ethical considerations over profits, ensuring they do not bend the law. Furthermore, attention to detail is crucial in providing key advice to clients, preventing misinterpretation or negligence. Writing law articles developed my precision in delivering key information.

Collaboration is another key attribute. Lawyers frequently work with colleagues across different departments and even with cross-jurisdictional teams. The ability to communicate, delegate tasks, and provide clear instructions is vital, especially in Sidley’s leaner teams which require everyone to play their part. Collaboration also involves learning from seniors while guiding juniors. I have honed my collaborative skills in the particularly high pressure environment of the military. 

2023

Why does a career in commercial law and specifically Sidley Austin interest you? (250)

Problem-solving within a set of parameters first drew me to commercial law. I studied philosophy at university to become a vicar. After realising priesthood was not for me, I became drawn to law as it similarly offers the chance to guide others based upon a set of principles.

I am particularly interested in commercial law because of commerce’s ability to creatively solve and anticipate problems. Cofounding a childcare business showed me that anticipating consumers’ issues is key to business success. Commercial lawyers are central to this exciting problem-solving process. During my [Magic Circle law firm] vacation scheme, I saw how antitrust was integral to a megamerger’s success. Moreover, during a placement at [Silver Circle law firm], I found the multi-jurisdictional nature of a High Court litigation to be technically interesting. As an analyst of financial risk and regulation, I enjoy creatively interpreting seemingly rigid financial regulations. I now want to expand the remit of my role and, as a commercial lawyer, engage with a wider variety of legislation and companies.

I am drawn to Sidley Austin (SA) for its strong financial service regulatory practice. I want to continue giving financial regulatory advice but now from a legal perspective. SA’s aggressive growth in private equity is also attractive. Having specialised in corporate finance at university, I want to further develop my understanding of company valuation and acquisition. Finally, SA’s small trainee intake appeals to me. Having led multiple societies at university whilst working a part-time job, I enjoy shouldering significant responsibility.

Describe a current commercial issue that has interested you and explain why it interested you? (250 words max)

Environmental, social and governance themed (ESG) investing has exploded in recent years. ESG assets are estimated to exceed $53 trillion (over one-third of assets under management) by 2025. There has been a corresponding 95% increase in ESG regulation since 2000. Further, there are now over 600 different ESG rating providers. Consequently, ESG scores are increasingly influencing asset prices and corporate policies. The pandemic and subsequent green recoveries have only accelerated this trend.

Working with asset managers and insurers, I have seen first-hand the difficulty in navigating ESG scores due to their lack of standardisation. Different ESG rating providers’ methodologies use different categories, weightings, and measurements. A company can gain a poor ESG score from one rating provider whilst achieving a strong score from another.

Next, there are problems surrounding ESG rating providers’ motivations. ESG rating services often coexist with the provider’s credit ratings, consulting services, and asset management arms. Many ESG ratings providers offer consultancy on how to improve the very ratings they provide. This creates a conflict of interest as ESG rating providers can be hired on the back of giving poor scores and masking their methodologies.

I am particularly interested in these issues because of the current widespread confusion and long-term implications. After continued regulatory pressure, I predict that the ESG rating providers will merge and ESG disclosure will become mandatory. However, without regulators demanding more transparency and mitigating rating providers’ conflicts of interest, I believe, the comparability and trust in ESG scores will be undermined.

In your view which personal qualities make a successful lawyer? (250 Words Max)

A commercial mindset is crucial for success in a City law firm. Commercial lawyers must understand their client’s business but also, as I saw during my placement at [US law firm], recognise what wider socio-economic trends will adversely affect them. On the flip side, a lawyer should also recognise that their law firm is a business. Appreciating the consequences of ‘debtors’ days’ or ‘lock up’ and how their own individual contribution impacts their department’s growth is crucial to prioritising work and adding value.

Next, a lawyer must also understand that attention to detail is a mindset rather than a skill. That is, a faculty that must be fully engaged during any legal work. During my time at [Magic Circle law firm], I learned that commercial lawyers, as my associate explained, ‘fundamentally sell words’ and are in a constant pursuit of mitigating their clients’ legal risk. Consequently, they must have zero tolerance for final draft mistakes.

Good communication distinguishes leaders from intellectuals. Lawyers, by simplifying complex information, need to lead their clients to the right conclusion. My negotiation modules at university taught me that persuasion is often more about how you listen than how you talk. Similarly, lawyers need to actively listen to their client’s needs, whilst communicating in a succinct, top-down manner: beginning with recommendations and logically grouping supporting arguments.

Commercial lawyers must also be willing to be, not only intellectually, but emotionally challenged. Confrontational clients whose business is at risk, strict deadlines and long hours requires deep-rooted resilience.

January 2023

Why does a career in commercial law and specifically Sidley Austin interest you? (250 words max) *

Completing a work experience programme with Fieldfisher sparked my interest in commercial law. During the programme, I worked on reviewing a secured term-loan facility agreement and sat through the negotiations of a sustainability-linked interest rate, for the financing of an M&A deal. I enjoyed researching the issue and drafting the corporate authorisations for the same. This piqued my interest in structured finance which is one of Sidley Austin’s strongest practice area. I found the firm’s advice to Permira Debt Managers in its ESG-linked securitisation last year appealing and I want to work on such complex yet engaging transactions. 

I engaged in the virtual work experience programmes of firms like Jones Day, Hogan Lovells, and Weil, Gotshal & Manges and I was fascinated by the work of a private equity lawyer. Sidley Austin’s private equity practice has been growing since the last few years as a result of its lateral hires (most recent being Tony Downes leave from Proskauer). I was intrigued by GIC’s $8.4 billion buyout of Genesee & Wyoming as the firm navigated through the tricky multi-jurisdictional regulatory issues. A career at Sidley Austin will enable me to work on such challenging high-quality work. 

Attending open days at leading law firms like Shearman & Sterling, Covington & Burling, Davis Polk & Wardwell gave me an insight into firm’s work cultures. I learnt that I will thrive at Sidley Austin as it will enable me to take on responsibilities and ownership and provide me with faster growth opportunities. 

Describe a current commercial issue that has interested you and explain why it interested you? (250 words max) 

The issue of soaring interest rates combined with the fluctuating value of the British Pound Sterling has piqued my interest. From a historical low of 0.1% for a sustained period of 10 years, the interest rates have risen to 2.25% this quarter. Amidst the growing strength of the US dollar and the sinking value of the pound, we observed a 37-year low of $1.0915 reaching parity with the dollar. The strength of the dollar will enable US private equity firms to aggressively buy and take over UK companies. Firms can leverage their position to take on ‘undervalued’ companies and gain an advantage with significantly cheaper deals. Triton’s £1.3 billion ‘take-private’ of Clinigen Group in April this year is an example of the same. Even last year, private equity firms made over 15 deals for UK companies (both takeovers and minority stakes) with a combined value of £25 billion. Private equity firms are Sidley Austin’s biggest clients. This means increased opportunities for the firm to advise its clients on a wide range of areas like M&A, restructuring and finance among many others. 

This interests me because of my keen interest in the private equity sector. Completing virtual work experience programmes of several firm’s exposed me to the challenging and complex facets of private equity. I’ve extensively researched the on-going private equity deals and analysed their commercial viability. This has helped me develop a strong commercial acumen and motivated me to delve deeper into this field.

In your view which personal qualities make a successful lawyer? (250 words max)

A successful lawyer must have strong commercial awareness and a global perspective. Commercial lawyers must be cognizant of the latest commercial trends and understand how businesses function to be able to advise clients effectively. I’ve studied business management throughout high school, and I’ve picked optional modules like contemporary issues in law and business and European business context in my first year. Through this, I’ve developed a strong commercial acumen. Having gained legal work experience in India and in the UK, I’ve gauged the cultural and commercial differences in the regions and developed an international mindset too.

The ability to take on challenges proactively, the desire to learn and succeed in a new environment and most importantly resilience, are qualities crucial to the role of a successful lawyer. A lawyer has to face countless difficulties and it is important to be able to tackle them head on. Last year when I moved to London as an International Student from India, I found the academic, and cultural differences quite challenging at first. But I had a drive to succeed in this new environment. With a proactive and ‘can do’ attitude, I managed to get a 74% in the 1st year of degree, participated in several negotiation competitions, attended 5 Open Days, gained valuable work experience at Fieldfisher LLP, and secured the Clyde and Co Brand Ambassador position despite several hurdles and challenges. Alongside handling academic responsibilities, I managed to work part-time to support myself financially showcasing resilience. 

Detail your extra-curricular activities and interests and positions of responsibility. Please state what you feel you have gained from them and how others have benefited from your involvement. (250 words max) 

A noteworthy position of responsibility that I have taken up this year is the role of brand ambassador for Clyde & Co at my university. I promote the firm and it opportunities on campus. This position has immensely bolstered my confidence and helped me develop a commercial acumen. I’ve built a working knowledge of the firm’s business, it’s practice areas and opportunities. More importantly, I’ve understood first-hand how law firms operate as businesses, their structures and unique commercial focus. Through social media campaigns and drop-in sessions, I proactively share such insights with students. Students have benefited from the application tips, insights into commercial law that I share with them as this has provided them with greater clarity and understanding of the legal field. 

I have always been keen on engaging in community service. I volunteer for Girl Up Singhania, a student-led volunteer club to do my bit for society. This summer, I conducted a donation drive to collect sanitary commodities for underprivileged children living in orphanages. I was able to provide 100 children with year-long essential sanitary supplies. I continue to work remotely to collect donations to uplift the lives of underprivileged children. This experience has impacted me greatly and made me more compassionate and humble. But more importantly, the underprivileged children have greatly benefited from the donations as it helped improved sanitation in the orphanage. It brought a change in their daily lives and instilled hope in them for a better future.

Please list any academic scholarships or prizes (200 words max)

Competing at a young age in a challenging full scholarship competition held between The Oxford Times and St Edward’s School, was rigorous and demanding, but securing the much coveted place to study by being awarded the unique anniversary bursary demonstrates that I am able to endure the pressures of competition and thrive. My academic commitment and excellence was recognised after my first year at the school, when I was awarded an Academic Exhibition award. 

Detail your extra-curricular activities and interests and positions of responsibility. Please state what you feel you have gained from them and how others have benefitted from your involvement (250 words max)

I regularly champion the Lloyds Scholars programme to future applicants, by targeting individuals from lower income households and providing valuable information in regards to the scheme. Moreover, being College Representative for the Cambridge Law Society indicates my responsible nature, as I must frequently manage relations between Corpus Christi College and the Law Society, as well as assisting with the general management of the society.

In my spare time, I play the piano regularly and am competitive on the sporting front. I also spend my leisure time reading novels, at the moment I am currently enjoying the works of Harper Lee and Marjane Satrapi. Attending debates at the Cambridge Union is an intriguing activity which has enabled a more in-depth understanding of various topics, from Trump’s presidency to the scepticism surrounding mainstream media. Attending such debates also allowed me to identify and develop important public speaking skills and techniques to persuade effectively, which were of assistance for my completion of the Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer Research & Mooting Skills Programme.

At St. Edward’s School, I endorsed a role model image in order to provide the best possible example to those around me. Holding the position of President of the Law Society and Vice-President of the Economics Society enabled me to become aware of the workings of different sectors of society. Leading the Debating Society, as well as my own debating team, provided an opportunity to expand upon already acquired knowledge, and powerfully present my opinions.

Why does a career in a city law firm interest you? (250 words)

Commercial law is one of the fundamental pillar stones of society, the main purpose of commercial law being to accomplish the needs of the commercial community, which in turn facilitates commercial activity. From a corporate perspective, I would gain great satisfaction from working with large corporate clients in assisting them to achieve their business objectives. I strive to work in an environment that requires continuous drive to achieve a competitive advantage in the market place. Being able to participate in negotiations that will have a global impact will be stimulating, as I recognise that my work would have a positive impact across several jurisdictions.

By attending a discussion hosted by Clifford Chance in regards to emerging markets and technology, I have noticed how commercial law firms are having to adapt to technological advances. This evidences the broad nature of commercial law, as there is an adaptation to progress with the trends of emerging markets and the global economy. A career as a commercial lawyer would be stimulating and rigorous, as I would work individually or in a team to advise some of the most prominent and influential companies on matters that affect the world’s political and economic landscape. Engaging with a wide range of people with topical issues is exciting and thought-provoking, as I would have to use my initiative as well as problem-solving skills to achieve the most successful results.

Describe a current commercial issue that has interested you and explain why it interested you (250 words) 

The events comprising the US-China trade war, such as the escalation of tariffs and the making of threatening statements have provoked the commercial sector to respond to escalations in the economic cold war. The immediate impact of the trade war can be felt upon the American and Chinese economies, as can be evidenced by China’s economy growing at its slowest rate in almost three decades and US tariffs certainly being one of the reasons for that. However, it is clear that the US-China trade war can have a significant impact on other nations as well. As noted at Weil’s ‘What next for the global economy?’ discussion, the US-China trade war is causing great uncertainty and destabilisation, consequentially causing investors to pause. This is significant, as the effects can be felt worldwide, in the form of potential, long-term stagnation. The potential economic aftermath of the trade war signifies the international relevance of the financial sphere, as the global supply chain must be re-ordered to prevent lasting damage. Thus, the trade war could have a substantial impact on Sidley Austin’s clients by severely undermining the ability of companies to operate across borders. A progression and escalation of the trade war could force companies to consider pulling operations out of both China and the US, and delaying or cancelling investment in both countries. It has been recorded that Vietnam is ripe for private equity investors as the US-China trade war drags on, indicating a transition towards alternate private equity opportunities.

In your view which personal qualities make a successful lawyer? (250 words)

It is vital that a successful lawyer can demonstrate strong analytical skills to achieve the most successful results for clients. As the only intern in the legal department of Lloyds Bank Corporate Markets, I was able to develop my analytical skills by working alongside and completing work for the General Counsel in that department. A successful lawyer must also pay close attention to detail. Some of the presentations I made during the internship, such as my presentation on legal advice privilege, were provided to clients of the bank, which enabled me to enhance my attributes of responsibility and paying attention to detail.

A strong lawyer should be orally articulate and have strong communication skills, as they enter into negotiations with various clients from an array of backgrounds. Conducting mock interviews for prospective Oxford and Cambridge law students indicates that I have strong communication skills. In particular, conducting interviews for pupils that do not use English as their first language identifies that I am able to overcome obstacles and adapt to the situation.

To achieve success as a lawyer, it is important to be perseverant to achieve the best results for clients. My resilient nature can be evidenced by my undertaking of numerous work experience opportunities, as well as other positions of responsibility such as senior prefect at St. Edward’s School, Oxford. Striving to achieve the best possible outcome in everything I undertake is a valuable characteristic for a career as a lawyer.