2025
Why do you want to become a commercial lawyer? (300 words)
Shadowing my father's real estate business on a trip to Nigeria in 2020 sparked my interest in commercial law. I saw how the legal team had to consider clients' business plans and the legal implications of their purchase. This ensured the land was compatible with the client's desired use. I became captivated by the understanding that commercial lawyers must have not only of the law, but also of their client's business. This attracts me because it's a career path where I can develop my affinity for problem-solving in complex commercial contexts like the one I observed.
This interest led me to secure a first-year scheme at [REDACTED] in 2024. I sat in the Investment Funds and Asset Management department. I assisted with a PPM document and amended an engagement letter whilst working on the [REDACTED] fund. Here, I saw how a commercial lawyer's work has a real-world impact. For example, our work on the [REDACTED] fund contributed to the Mayor's net zero ambitions across London. By seeing the tangibility of my work, I was motivated to pursue a career in commercial law.
Building on this, I secured a spring internship at [REDACTED] in 2024, where I sat in the commercial department. This cemented my interest in commercial law as I saw first-hand the role of commercial awareness in providing tailored legal advice. I became intrigued by how changing economic and political developments can impact a client’s operations. For example, when completing a research document for [REDACTED], it was essential to consider data privacy concerns in light of the EU AI Act. This combined my interest in analysing pertinent legal issues, which I attained during my legal studies, with the commercial acumen I honed during the [REDACTED] programme in 2023.
Why would you choose to train at Latham & Watkins over another firm? (300 words)
I'm drawn to Latham's Investment Funds practice, which leverages a global reach to advise the world's most sophisticated fund sponsors and investors. My first-year scheme at [REDACTED] in 2024 sparked my interest in funds. Latham is the best place to continue this interest. Latham's funds practice has serviced multinational clients by advising Neos Partners in their $1.37 billion energy fund formation. The particular aspect of this deal that stood out to me is the firm's ability to navigate the varying interests of founders, advisors and executives when structuring the fund. This means as a trainee, I will be trained to be adaptable and serve the needs of several parties. It will also allow me to work on various fund deals, as Latham has shown excellence across different fund structures.
Latham's technological approach to training is equally compelling, which I find incredibly exciting. I spoke to associate [REDACTED] at [REDACTED] in 2024 and I was struck by the firm's TACE library, which encompasses years of legal education into an online platform. As a spring intern at [REDACTED] in April 2024, I saw first-hand how online learning and practical experience are invaluable for a trainee solicitor. As Latham recently announced its unique AI academy, it is a strong place for me to develop a more profound knowledge of legal practice with technology at the forefront.
I also appreciate Latham's Pro Bono practice. In 2024, I completed Latham's virtual Pro-Bono Simulation, where I learnt about the legal challenges marginalised communities face. Latham’s collaboration with Bigkid reaffirmed my admiration of the firm’s commitment to altruism. My current role as [REDACTED] of [REDACTED] evidences my dedication to using law as a vehicle for positive impactful change, which draws me to Latham.
Please give details of your extra-curricular activities, and any prizes, scholarships, positions of responsibility, or noteworthy achievements that will support your application. (300 words)
One noteworthy achievement of mine is succeeding in A-levels during a time of adversity. When my best friend [REDACTED] was stabbed and murdered during my A-level Exam period, I was responsible for fundraising for his funeral. I planned and promoted a balloon release in [REDACTED] town centre. To raise awareness, I made a flyer using Canva and promoted it via social media. Alongside this, I circulated a GoFundMe link across various social platforms. As a result, approximately 600 people from the local community came together to pay their respects and I raised £2830. Alongside this, I successfully gained a place at my first choice University.
I have a growth mindset. I was Deputy Head Boy of [REDACTED] School in 2023. Upon identifying a need for further support outside academia, I pioneered the non-academic mentoring scheme. Through weekly mentoring sessions across a period of 6 months, I developed an ability to adapt my communication style to the needs of my mentees. This resulted in my mentee's grades improving from 5s to 7s. Additionally, I received a thank you letter from a parent who had seen significant behavioural changes in her son.
An extracurricular activity I enjoy is music. In 2019, I released my first song on all streaming platforms. Initially, I used the recording studio in my church to record the track. Then, I created a preview video and circulated it on social media to gain traction. I also utilised my connection to "Young Dave", an artist signed to influencer KSI's label, to promote the song further, resulting in the song gaining 30,000 views. As a result, not only was I invited to perform on BBC in 2020, but I was invited to a studio session with award-winning music producer "ELEVATE" in the summer of 2023.
2024
Why do you want to become a commercial lawyer? (300 words)
I want to be a commercial law for its impact, the fusion of my two loves and its emphasis on precise entrepreneurship.
Commercial lawyers play key roles in groundbreaking transactions that capture headlines and drive markets. Aspiring to be impactful and essential, I view commercial law as a high-leverage career, especially as lawyers are engaged at key moments in a business' life, such as mergers or fundraising. During Latham's first-year scheme, my mentor Clive Wong affirmed the firm's role as a key contributor to market-shaking megadeals, promising an exhilarating future.
My early interest in business was inspired by my entrepreneurial grandfathers, growing a business in challenging times. I furthered my interest by consulting with the Oxford Strategy Group, advising multimillion-dollar companies, and developing my understanding of the strategic significance of moves like partnerships and fundraising.
My fascination with law stems from a desire to comprehend societal rules and understand why the world is governed as such. Pursuing a law degree, I am captivated by the intricate details and its emphasis on precision. As a published writer covering topics such as NFT regulations and the EU Digital Act, I find the dynamic legal environment impacting the commercial realm particularly thrilling.
Becoming a commercial lawyer represents the perfect fusion of my two passions.
I am intrigued by the accuracy and entrepreneurship demanded in commercial law. Crafting advice and agreements requires surgical precision, especially in the ever-changing commercial landscape. My legal internships exposed me to innovative fund structures, emphasising the need for precise problem-solving. As the founder of The Reading List, a commercial news newsletter, launching a fresh but flawless and accurate product was an exciting challenge. I aim to bring this blend of entrepreneurial enthusiasm and precision to my future career in commercial law, tackling novel solutions in this dynamic field.
Latham & Watkin’s (Latham) most appealing quality is its people. As a first-year scheme participant and brand ambassador, I had the privilege of meeting multiple members of the firm, and everyone has been welcoming and supportive. My mentors Clive Wong and Emma Leatherbarrow were extremely approachable and helpful. I believe that the culture the firm inculcates, through initiatives such as the Associates Committee, coupled with lean teams providing direct feedback from top partners, provides a community where I will connect, reach out and grow.
As an international student, I enjoy solving problems in different contexts, with diverse groups of people. As a truly global firm, Latham frequently handles multi-jurisdictional deals. With a single fully integrated management structure, Latham offers unparalleled global collaboration. Speaking to Ein Le Lim from the Singapore office, she details how she easily collaborates with colleagues from DC or London. This global collaboration excites me.
Latham receives unmatched quality of work. As the firm with the second highest revenue in the world, and working on megadeals such as advising Carlyle on acquiring a majority stake in END., the firm offers exciting deals that will develop my legal skillset in high-pressure, industry-shaking deals.
At the Business of Law event, many firm leaders emphasised the need for an entrepreneurial spirit as an expanding firm working on revolutionary deals. As the founder of a newsletter with 200 subscribers and originator of multiple events in various societies, I never aim to maintain the status quo but always seek growth. The firm’s commitment to entrepreneurship parallels my values.
As an Asian man, I seek inclusive communities where my struggles are recognised. Meeting multiple Asian lawyers in the firm, and learning about the various active affinity groups, I am assured that Latham is an inclusive space for me to thrive.
I founded "The Reading List," a biweekly newsletter that delivered commercial news updates to students in a condensed and humorous style, developing their commercial awareness. I took charge of the platform setup, recruited a team of 10, and marketed the newsletter to subscribers. In just two months, we attracted over 200 subscribers from more than 15 universities and gained over 800 views per month. Moreover, I secured sponsorships worth more than £150, providing value to subscribers. This initiative showcased my entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to helping my peers.
As Director of Events for the International Students' Campaign, I was responsible for organising events with over 180 attendees, working with a budget exceeding £1000. My role involves serving the community by creating a home away from home, providing support to and championing the causes of international students.
As a consultant with the Oxford Strategy Group, I played a vital role in researching the market expansion strategy for an electronics retailer with a market cap exceeding £625m. My responsibilities included presenting potential expansion streams, analysing the suitability of the product catalogue, proposing partnerships and acquisitions, and identifying challenges and opportunities for the firm. I was recognised as one of the top consultants in the society.
2023
Why would you choose to train at Latham & Watkins over another city firm? (300 words)
With a tier-one ranking, I am drawn to Latham & Watkin’s leading Merger and Acquisition Group. I noticed this after participating in Latham & Watkins’ ‘Mergers & Acquisitions Virtual Experience Program’ where I drafted a share purchase agreement and conducted an issues list for a fintech firm. To complete the task, I used my prior knowledge of finance which I developed as a private bank summer advisor at J.P Morgan, where I conducted SWOT analyses for my clients. This virtual internship stemmed my desire to learn about mergers and acquisitions and I believe I will benefit from Latham & Watkins’ expertise and access to the US capital market.
During the Latham & Watkins’ Open Day, I enjoyed learning about Latham & Watkins’ international reach, particularly the Africa practice, which I would love to get involved in. The structure of the Africa Practice, divided into multiple industry groups, highlights Latham & Watkins’ unique approach to Africa as equal to other markets. This is exemplified through Latham & Watkins’ role in the financing and development of the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline and Stations Project in Nigeria, one of the largest projects in Africa in the last decade. Despite the drop in the global demand for oil and gas, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Latham & Watkins’ knowledge of the Nigerian energy market enabled this successful deal. My Nigerian roots and ability to speak four languages give me a unique and valuable perspective, enabling me to connect with clients on a personal and cultural level.
Latham & Watkins’ Business Services Trainee Program and Summer Academy will equip me with the business knowledge and skills required to excel in my training contract. I will be able to know Latham & Watkins’ clients’ businesses better- therefore being able to take up challenging transactions. I value Latham & Watkins’ interest in growing its trainees’ skill sets.
Why do you want to become a commercial lawyer? (300 words)
In 2002, [redacted]. My parents’ inability to speak Spanish led me to learn the language. I helped them translate balance sheets and court letters to advise them on further actions. My interest in becoming a commercial lawyer stems from my desire to be the lawyer that my parents’ business needed. This event marked the beginning of my interest in a career in commercial law and pivoted me into my first work experience at JMW Solicitors within the insolvency department. This experience opened my eyes to the mistake my parents made; they failed to organise the restructuring of their financial arrangements and didn’t effectively administer their assets during the bankruptcy process.
To explore my interest in law, I successfully applied for a place at the Rare Articles: Latham & Watkins event. I engaged in a private equity case study, where I learnt about Latham & Watkins’ role in advising The Rise Fund’s investment in Airtel Mobile Commerce BV. During this case study, I pointed out potential issues such as employee terminations, regulators and briberies. This experience made me aware of the international scope of commercial law in contrast to the small family business that I was familiar with; thereby captivating my interest in commercial law. Through the Rare Articles: Latham & Watkins event, I became aware that as a commercial lawyer, I would have the opportunity to work with businesses and help them navigate the complex legal landscape in order to achieve their goals. I am particularly interested in the field of commercial law because it allows me to combine my passion for business with my desire to make a difference.
Please give details of your extra-curricular activities, and any prizes, scholarships, positions of responsibility, or noteworthy achievements that will support your applications (300 words)
My parents migrated to Spain without speaking Spanish, and as a result of this, I learnt Spanish in primary school. I helped them translate important information, like employment contracts. This made me aware of the difficulties African nationals face when learning Spanish. Due to this, I took the initiative to establish a Spanish learning centre [redacted], tailored for African nationals. The influence of my role is clear; all my students improved their speaking proficiency level from beginner to intermediate within 10 months, and 15 students passed their Spanish nationality test.
A noteworthy achievement I am most proud of is my impeccable GCSE grades, achieved from a place of adversity. In the aftermath of Catalonia’s referendum, I migrated to the UK. I had to decide between repeating Year 10 and doing Year 11. I decided to do Year 11 during school periods and do Year 10 coursework after school. After failing my GCSE mocks, I questioned my decision and considered returning to Spain. However, I decided to persevere. I handed in extra essays and past papers, reached out for help and actively took note of the feedback I received. The hard work was worth it, as I was featured as a 'high-achiever' in the [redacted] News.
This autumn, I decided to partake in a Comedy masterclass. After five Comedy masterclasses, I hosted my first comedy show, 'The Great Laugh’, to a private audience. I used my childhood and life lessons to create funny jokes. Prior to the event, three attendees informed me that they were unable to afford formal attires. I decided to change the dress code from formal to pyjamas. This created an inclusive environment for all of the attendees and they were able to attend the event without any barriers.
2022
Why do you want to become a commercial lawyer? (250 words)
A career as a commercial lawyer appeals to me because I enjoy the dynamic nature of commercial work alongside the challenge of fast-changing business climates and legislation. As a pupil at [redacted], I assisted in a tax advisory task relating to the global implementation of the OECDs Base Erosion and Profit Shifting action plans. I analysed the relevant laws and drafted legal advice for a multinational client on its restructuring strategies. This demonstrated to me the importance of analytical skills and strategic planning when advising clients as a commercial solicitor, and also gave me a taste of the satisfaction that can be gained through solving complex problems.
Having experienced mini-pupillages and worked in a commercial law firm, I have decided that a career as a commercial solicitor is for me because I thrive in a people-oriented environment with an emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. As a pupil, I have enjoyed high levels of client exposure and working with colleagues to find solutions. For instance, a multinational company sought employment advice on the legal consequences of cancelling agreed merit increases in different countries as part of its cost-cutting measures due to the pandemic. I attended the client meetings, assisted my team in researching the relevant area of employment law, and collaborated with counsel across multiple jurisdictions in advising the client on the best course of action. This experience cemented my motivation to work in a collaborative environment with the opportunity to establish a strong rapport with clients.
Why would you choose to train at Latham & Watkins over another firm? (250 words)
I would like to train at Latham & Watkins (L&W) given its global presence and strong expertise in M&A, equity capital markets, restructuring and insolvency, dispute resolution, and international arbitration. Its one-firm structure enables a fully integrated client service and opportunities for trainees to work on cross-border matters. I am excited by the prospect of working on high-profile matters such as Saudi Aramco's Initial Public Offering and international arbitration for states including Croatia and Ukraine. Exposure to L&W's well-balanced expertise in corporate, advisory and litigation areas would shape me into a more well-rounded lawyer and business adviser to clients.
L&W's small intake attracts me as it enables trainees to be integrated into the team from day one and take on greater responsibilities. Furthermore, L&W's supportive and inclusive culture attracts me. Having spoken to trainees including [trainee 1], [trainee 2] and [trainee 3] at law fairs, I learnt that L&W's friendly culture and open-door policy allow trainees to easily approach their supervisors and other lawyers. Being part of a tight-knit firm would provide great opportunities for growth and career progression.
As an ethnic-minority woman, L&W's strong commitment to diversity stands out to me. I am impressed by the inclusive management approach at L&W which allows the associates to make decisions on progression and promotions to partnership through the Associates Committee. Having spoken to [Latham associate] during a law fair about the Women Enriching Business Committee Group, I am confident that L&W's Diversity and Inclusion initiatives match my aspiration for career progression.
What transferable skills can you bring to the role of Trainee Solicitor? (250 words)
My strong organisational skills will be valuable to the role of Trainee Solicitor. As a pupil at [redacted], I worked under pressure and handled tight deadlines. Despite frequently exceeding 80-hour workweeks, I completed my work to a high standard. All my supervisors reported that I either met or exceeded their expectations in my feedback report. As a result of my performance, I was offered retention post-pupillage. My ability to manage a heavy workload will be particularly beneficial as a trainee at L&W due to its lean team structure.
I am meticulous in my work and approach tasks with high attention to detail. I honed this skill whilst volunteering for the [redacted], a charity that assists excluded school children. In my first case, I advised a schoolgirl who had been permanently excluded for discharging pepper spray. After analysing the bundle and relevant law, I identified an inconsistency in the schools evidential timeline and persuaded the panel to reverse the schools decision. These skills will immensely benefit me as a Trainee Solicitor, especially in managing legal documents for corporate transactions, conducting legal research, and drafting.
My leadership skills will ensure that I take ownership of my work as a Trainee Solicitor, whilst taking responsibility for my development by proactively seeking work and feedback. As the first president of the [redacted], I formed a committee and led my team in winning the [redacted] Debate Tournament after a three-day competition.
Please give details of your extra-curricular activities, and any prizes, scholarships, positions of responsibility, or noteworthy achievements that will support your application. (250 words)
Extra-curricular Activities:
(1) Treasurer [redacted] Students Union (2017 2018)
- Controlled and structured college finances.
- Introduced a transparent online system for managing student accounts.
- Initiated and ran a college merchandise sale to generate extra income for the Students Union.
(2) President [redacted] Debating Club (2016 2017)
- Formally registered the club and drafted the constitution which is still in use.
- Created a website for the club. Actively reached out to students and organised taster sessions quadrupling membership intake.
- Organise a two-day debating workshop at the university which was attended by over 100 students from all over the UK.
(3) Social Officer [redacted] Society (2016 2017)
- Elected to organise social events including formal dinners for members throughout the year.
- Initiated collaboration with other societies to hold events together and implemented new ideas for the annual dinner.
(4) Secretary [redacted] Ballet Club (2016 2017)
- Responsible for taking meeting minutes, setting up an effective communication platform for committee members, and managing the mailing list for society members.
Achievements:
Finalist [redacted] Negotiation Competition 2019
Winner [redacted] Moot Competition on Tort Law 2018
Grand Finalist [redacted] International Intellectual Property Law Moot Competition 2018
Winner & Best Mooter [redacted] College Moot Competition on Employment Law 2018
Winner [redacted] Moot Competition on Contract Law 2017
Winner [redacted] Debate Tournament 2017
BPTC Prize for Mediation 2019
Top in Country for Sociology in Cambridge A-Levels 2013
2021
Why do you want to become a commercial lawyer? (250 words)
My ambition to pursue a career in commercial law was affirmed following an internship at a local law firm.
In the corporate team, I worked on a due diligence report for the IPO listing of an automobile company. I enjoyed utilising the analytical ability I have developed through participation in mooting competitions to identify potential risks in the transaction. The fast paced nature of transactional work also appealed to me as it allowed me to experience the different stages of the transaction, from working on initial due diligence to reviewing the closing documents. I also had to familiarise myself with the commercial issues facing the automobile industry at the time, such as the competition from electric vehicles and the increased production costs due to the US-China trade war. Commercial law involves gaining a deeper understanding of a client's business sector to provide tailored legal advice. I desire the added challenge of dealing with both commercial and legal issues.
I was also tasked with researching case law in across various Commonwealth jurisdictions for a tax litigation case. I found this task highly interesting as it involved understanding the nuances of law in different jurisdictions. Working on large multi-jurisdictional transactions will provide me with the opportunity to directly engage with the latest legal and socio-political developments in even the most remote jurisdictions. Having lived in Malaysia, Japan and the UK the added opportunity this creates to further cultivate my global outlook throughout my career is highly appealing.
Why would you choose to train at Latham & Watkins over another firm? (250 words)
I am interested in Latham & Watkins for its market leading finance and private equity expertise. Having completed an insight programme at J.P Morgan and studied a finance module, I have developed a genuine interest in the firm's core practice areas.
The firm also stands out among its competitors for its strong growth in areas such as in technology transactions and media and entertainment. Reading about the firm's exciting work in these areas, such as advising Netflix on its first acquisition and advising clients on an initial coin offering, I am confident that training at the firm will provide me with the opportunity to work on cutting-edge transactions across a broad range of practice areas.
Additionally, the vast scale of the firm's transactions ensures global exposure. This is exemplified in the firm's role in Carlyle Group's acquisition of energy company CEPSA where several Latham & Watkins offices across the US, Spain and London were neatly combined to facilitate a seamless service. The international yet collegial nature of the firm provides a unique formula that creates opportunities to work on the latest developments across jurisdictions.
At the [redacted] presentation, partner Deborah Kirk highlighted that the small trainee intake and leaner team structure at the firm allows trainees to take greater ownership of their work. As someone that actively seek opportunities to get involved in new challenges, training at the firm appeals to me for the emphasis it places on trainee responsibility and career growth through drive and initiative.
What transferable skills can you bring to the role of Trainee Solicitor? (250 words)
The key transferrable skills I will bring to the role are teamwork, adaptability and the ability to take initiative.
As part of my role on the [redacted] society, I organised a panel event in collaboration with another university society. This society wanted to discuss generic topics as opposed to tailoring questions to each speaker. I negotiated with this society and was receptive to the arguments in support of their approach. Ultimately I was able to persuade them to use a combination of both our approaches. Being able to respect different opinions and collaborate effectively as I have will be crucial when working within the smaller teams at the firm.
A week before a different event, one of our sponsors expressed interest in being involved in the event. I had to re-organise the event schedule around the availability of the attending representatives, and extend the duration of the venue booking to accommodate the additional firm presentation. My ability to adapt to sudden changes will aid me in accommodating the changing demands of clients.
Through my role as vocational officer for another society, I took the initiative to organise a new one-day conference for over 100 students. Taking on such an ambitious project demonstrates my drive and determination to embrace new challenges. This experience has prepared me for the high level of responsibility given to trainees at Latham & Watkins.