2025

Please use the space below to describe the reasons you want to be a solicitor. Outline what first prompted your interest in the profession, your research on the profession, and particular areas of law that interest you. (300 words) 

My ambition to become a solicitor stems from my fascination with how the law empowers individuals and shapes society. This interest first emerged during school, where participating in debates and mock trials introduced me to the legal system. The structured problem-solving and analytical rigor required to argue a case captivated me and inspired my decision to pursue a career in law. 

As I progressed, my understanding of the solicitor profession grew through research and practical experience. Attending panel discussions with legal professionals, including those hosted by [redacted], helped me appreciate the solicitor’s role in resolving complex issues while maintaining strong client relationships. My internship with [redacted] gave me firsthand exposure to family law, where I supported solicitors in preparing divorce cases and financial settlements. I saw the impact solicitors can have on clients’ lives, and these experiences solidified my commitment to this career path. 

I am particularly drawn to family and art law, which combine analytical and interpersonal skills. Family law appeals to me for its human focus and the opportunity to support clients through significant, often emotional challenges. Art law excites me because of its intersection of creativity and commerce, where solicitors protect intellectual property, resolve disputes, and advise on high-value transactions. Studying intellectual property law this year has deepened my interest in these areas, giving me insight into the innovative and evolving nature of the work. 

Becoming a solicitor is the ideal way for me to combine my passion for problem-solving with the opportunity to make a tangible impact. I am eager to develop the expertise, adaptability, and interpersonal skills required to excel in this field. With a strong interest in dynamic and human-centered practice areas, I look forward to contributing meaningfully to the profession and the individuals and communities it serves. 

Please outline the reasons you have chosen to apply to Charles Russell Speechlys. We're interested to understand: your research on the firm, how our work has captured your interest, what excites you about working for an international firm, and the reason for choosing your preferred office location. (400 words)

Charles Russell Speechlys’ (CRS)  unique combination of expertise in family and art law, alongside its commitment to innovation and pro bono work, makes it the ideal firm for me to begin my legal career. My interest in family law has developed through both academic and practical experience. During my internship with [redacted], I supported the family law team with divorce proceedings and financial settlements, gaining insight into the challenges and sensitivities that arise in these matters. CRS's stellar reputation in family and matrimonial law, particularly its work in complex financial disputes such as DR v UG [2023], inspires me. The case highlights the firm’s ability to navigate intricate legal and emotional dynamics while advocating effectively for its clients, a balance I aspire to achieve as a solicitor. 

Additionally, Charles Russell Speechlys’ distinguished art and cultural law practice resonates with my passion for protecting creative and cultural assets. Studying intellectual property law has further fueled this interest, as I have gained a deeper understanding of how legal frameworks safeguard innovation and heritage. The firm’s work with Cadbury, defending its trademark for the iconic Cadbury Purple, particularly impressed me. This case demonstrates the firm’s creative application of legal expertise to protect a client’s brand and identity in a challenging commercial landscape. The opportunity to work with clients in the art and luxury sectors excites me as it reflects the dynamic and intellectually stimulating nature of this area of law. 

The firm’s commitment to pro bono work is another reason I am drawn to Charles Russell Speechlys. Initiatives such as the Windrush Compensation Scheme and the European Lawyers in Lesvos project reflect the firm’s dedication to social responsibility, which aligns with my own values. During my time volunteering with the [redacted] and [redacted], I worked to support underrepresented communities, and I am eager to join a firm that prioritizes access to justice. The firm’s innovative approach, such as setting up webcam pro bono clinics during the pandemic, showcases a forward-thinking ethos I greatly admire. 

Finally, I am particularly drawn to the London office for its central role in the firm’s international operations and its focus on family and art law. The chance to work on cross-border matters within a collaborative and supportive environment is deeply exciting. Charles Russell Speechlys offers the ideal platform to develop my skills and contribute meaningfully to impactful client work.

Describe the achievement or accomplishment are you most proud of and why.
 Use the space below to explain how you challenged yourself in the process, if you had to overcome any setbacks and the skills you used to achieve this. (300 words)

The accomplishment I am most proud of is delivering a TEDx talk on the importance of gender equality in education during high school. Speaking to a large audience on a subject I cared deeply about was both exciting and daunting, requiring me to push past my comfort zone, overcome self-doubt, and develop essential skills that I continue to use today. 

Preparing for the talk was an intense and rewarding process. I spent weeks researching, writing, and rehearsing to ensure my arguments were compelling and my delivery confident. Balancing this with my academic and extracurricular commitments was challenging, but it taught me how to manage my time effectively and stay organized under pressure. Constructive feedback during rehearsals often forced me to rework my presentation, which taught me the value of resilience and the importance of adapting to improve. 

On the day of the talk, I faced my nerves head-on. My experience as President of my school’s Debate Society and Chair of the Cambridge Model United Nations helped me stay calm and focused, as I had developed skills in public speaking and engaging an audience. Standing on that stage, I focused on sharing my message clearly and persuasively, determined to inspire others to think critically about the role of education in achieving gender equality. Successfully delivering the talk was not just a personal triumph but also a chance to spark meaningful conversations on an issue I am passionate about. 

This experience pushed me to grow both personally and professionally. It strengthened my confidence, resilience, and ability to communicate under pressure, skills that I know will serve me well in my legal career. I am proud of this achievement because it demonstrates how hard work and determination can create opportunities to make a meaningful impact 

The Firm's values are: Authentic, Collaborative, Committed and Forward Looking. Choose one and explain what makes it important to you and why. Use the space below to showcase how and why it resonates with you, an example of where you’ve demonstrated this value, and how you intend to bring this to the firm. Please see our website for more information on our values. (300 words)

The value that resonates most with me is being Collaborative, as I believe that fostering teamwork and open communication leads to achieving impactful outcomes. Collaboration is vital in the legal profession, where the best solutions often arise from combining diverse perspectives and expertise. 

I demonstrated this value during my time as Vice President of Marketing for the[redacted]. In this role, I was responsible for organizing and promoting events, which required extensive collaboration with [redacted] regional, national, and international bodies. One of my key responsibilities was coordinating marketing campaigns for events like international webinars and panel discussions. For a careers panel on international law, I worked with [redacted] UK to source high-profile speakers and with the [redacted] International team to align promotional strategies across various chapters. This collaboration ensured the event’s success, with high attendance and positive feedback from participants. 

The role required me to manage competing priorities, communicate clearly across different teams, and navigate logistical challenges. For example, when regional schedules conflicted, I had to negotiate adjustments to ensure cohesive marketing timelines. These experiences taught me the importance of flexibility, mutual respect, and leveraging the strengths of diverse teams to achieve shared goals. 

At Charles Russell Speechlys, I look forward to bringing this collaborative mindset to the firm. The firm’s international scope, particularly in cross-border matters, excites me as it presents opportunities to work across jurisdictions. Collaboration is also critical in practice areas like family and art law, where teams must combine expertise to address complex, multifaceted issues. I am eager to contribute my ability to coordinate effectively, communicate clearly, and align strategies, ensuring seamless teamwork that delivers exceptional outcomes for clients. By fostering collaboration, I hope to strengthen the firm’s values and contribute meaningfully to its success.

2024

The firm`s values are: Authentic, Collaborative, Committed and Forward-Looking.

Choose one and explain what makes it important to you. Use the space below to showcase how and why it resonates with you, an example of where you`ve demonstrated this value, and reflect on how you`ll bring this to the firm. Please see [our website] (https://www.charlesrussellspeechlys.com/en/careers/our-way/) for more information on our values. (300 words)

Although I resonate with all of the firm's values, I particularly echo with forward-looking. It is important to me because I believe that a successful business creates and grows value for its clients, which the firm constantly provides. This is what motivated me to open my start-up. After winning a competition of innovators organised by Bordeaux Bar in 2019, I opened my start-up, whose purpose was to make law more accessible to everyone, through innovation. Consequently, this enabled me to develop a business and entrepreneurial flair. From this experience, I decided to pursue a route as a commercial solicitor because this sits on the axis between business and law, thereby satisfying my interests in both sectors.

I am also aware of the importance of Responsible Business/ESG issues for the firm. ESG (environmental, social, and governance) is a hugely significant talking point at the moment, especially recently with the United Nations climate change conference hosted in Dubai for its 28th edition on November 30th. It is interesting to me because I am invested in sustainability and this landmark event in the development of climate policy around the world, raises a great number of questions to consider. We can think of the impact that new regulations birthed from the pressure of this historic event could have on the firm's clients, who may need legal advice on how this might impact their business model. If that client was previously reliant on their acquired businesses doing

well as a result of cheap imports to the UK market, they would have to reconsider their forecasts long-term now. Or if a large organisation is looking to purchase a new start-up, they might be interested to hear how that start-up views its climate targets in light of COP28!s ongoing publicity.

Describe the achievement or accomplishment are you most proud of and why. Use the space below to explain how you challenged yourself in the process, if you had to overcome any setbacks and the skills you used to achieve this.  (300 words)

An achievement I am the most proud of was winning a national moot court competition in France. During the competition, we were given a short time (one week) for each round to research legal documents, summarise them, and draft the most persuasive pleading to defend our clients in front of judges (who were lawyers, judges and prosecutors).

Fortunately enough, I didn't face any setbacks because I ensured that I applied a strategic combination of prioritisation and planning. Firstly, after thoroughly reading the information provided, I broke down the tasks into smaller manageable steps and created a timeline to ensure that every step was completed on schedule. In that case, it was researching the laws on the particular matter, drafting a pleading by double-checking my work against the requirements several times and ensuring that all aspects had been addressed accurately. Secondly, I proofread it thoroughly and sought support and feedback from former moot court competition winners before performing in front of the judges.

This strategy helped me to organise my schedule, remain focused and maintain a steady pace of progress. I thoroughly enjoyed this situation; it was a valuable opportunity to prove myself and challenge my abilities, and the time pressure ensured I stayed efficient and concise. I could develop and build my time management, organisation, attention to detail, problem-solving, and adaptability skills. It also helped me develop my advocacy skills which I am looking to apply in my role as a solicitor apprentice. Since it is related to one of your value, which is client-centric mindset, this will help me cultivate a deep understanding of client needs and aim to exceed expectations, whilst growing relationships that build commitment and trust with clients.

Consequently, I won the competition and the admiration of the judges.

Summarise your reasons for applying for an apprenticeship. Have you considered any other pathways into law and what makes an apprenticeship the best route for you? (300 words)

I realised that I didn!t want to take the conventional route which is university. With the prospect of student debts hanging over my head, I decided to opt for something that is more career-certainty.

Therefore, I applied for a legal apprenticeship because I knew it would best suit my personal skills and experiences. I want to use this apprenticeship as an opportunity to gain practical workexperience that will build on my academic training and encourage my entrepreneurial flair and commercial acumen. I know that the mixture of legal drafting, due diligence, and legal analysis, combined with problem-solving and teamwork, can provide me with the academic and social stimulation that I am seeking from a career. I am looking forward to this apprenticeship in particular because of the smaller apprentice and trainee intake. Therefore, I will be able to learn on the job whilst putting my learnings into practice by getting involved in projects with a higher level of responsibility. I would thrive in being placed out of my comfort zone, in a challenging environment, where I would consistently push my limits to work on stimulating projects and learn from the wealth of experience of experts.

In addition, I believe that an apprenticeship will help me gain priceless experience and grow as a professional. I am interested in learning more about your practice areas, especially technology, media and telecommunication, and processes you use to cultivate success and applying this knowledge as I advance in my apprenticeship. Eventually, I aspire to move into a leadership role where I can mentor and guide future apprentices. This would allow me to give back to the industry by sharing my expertise and contributing to the development of the next generation of professionals.

These benefits make an apprenticeship a genuine and viable alternative to the traditional route into law.

Please outline the reasons you have chosen to apply to Charles Russell Speechlys. We're interested to understand: your research on the firm, how our work has captured your interest, what excites you about working for an international firm, and the reason for choosing your preferred office location. (400 words)

Several reasons stood out that made me want to work for you. Firstly, the firm's Broad range of practices, including not only the usual transactional and contentious teams but also family, immigration and private client teams, suggests that I will have consistent exposure to pioneering work wherever I am placed during my apprenticeship and training, as well as the opportunity to learn from the best in their fields. It is important to me because it will positively reflect my potential to learn and develop during the firm's apprenticeship programme and beyond.Secondly, the firm's strong international exposure, on domestic and cross-border high-profile matters, as well as its more diversified client base than other law firms, including large corporations and banks, sportsmen, earlier-stage investors, and earlier-stage businesses, would be the opportunity to benefit from some of the most highly regarded professionals from all over the world, and to work a unique range of challenging matters. This is important to me because it suggests that I will have the opportunity to gain exposure to business at various stages in my life cycle. Since there is a small apprentice intake, I will also have the possibility to earn greater responsibility and exposure at an earlier stage. Ultimately, not only would I gain a depth of knowledge and experience, but also an unparalleled start to my career at the firm beyond qualifications. Since London is often described as the top international financial centre in the world, it was evident for me to apply to the London office.

Moreover, the firm invests in several schemes to foster diversity, equity and inclusion, such as the Religion Belief and Ethnicity (RBE) Committee, as well as events in different religious calendars like Diwali and Black History Month. As a woman of colour coming from a disadvantaged background, it tells me that I will be valued, included and represented in the firm.

Finally, the firm !s deep commitment to having a positive social impact, evidenced by pro bono work, which includes the Windrush Compensation Initiative and Webcam Pro Bono Clinics, is important to me. The firm established the first pro bono clinics in the UK via webcams during the COVID-19 lockdown, which enabled its lawyers to reach people in legal aid deserts outside London and to continue providing pro bono advice to people on low incomes. Not only will it add another dimension to my development as a lawyer, but consequently enable me to be an O-shaped, well-rounded professional.

For all of these reasons, I would be proud to work for a firm like Charles Russell Speechlys.

Please use the space below to describe the reasons you want to be a solicitor. Consider what first prompted your interest in the profession, your research on the profession, and particular areas of law that interest you. (300 words)

I want to become a solicitor because I find the Law fascinating. Since I was young, I thought the way courts operated was incredibly interesting. I always felt a career in law carried its own prestige and I wanted a part of that experience.Then I opened my startup in 2019, which provided me with first-hand experience in business by negotiating, pivoting, pitching, drafting a business model, and selling my product (AI Legal Assistant). I particularly enjoyed how it placed me out of my comfort zone because I could develop a business and entrepreneurial flair. It was this pivotal event that made me decide to pursue a route as a commercial solicitor because this sits on the axis between business and law, thereby satisfying my interests in both sectors.

I also genuinely believe that solicitors perform valuable work, as the Law can be complex and difficult to understand for the average person. In my previous roles as a legal intern, I realised that no two days are the same, and therefore, this environment offers an intellectually stimulating environment. I enjoyed being an active part of a variety of tasks on interesting and complex matters.

I am particularly interested in technology, media and telecommunication. Perpetually in the pursuit of knowledge, I know that a career as a solicitor can boost my creative, linear, logical, categorical and rational sides every day.

Moreover, I am confident this profession suits best my analytical, communication and teamwork skills. As a highly collaborative individual, I enjoy working in a team because I trust in the power of partnership, to work towards a common goal, which is to bring about the best result for clients. Ultimately, I hope to establish myself as a respected expert in the firm, known for delivering high-quality work and fostering a positive work environment for my team.

2023

1. Why do you want to be a solicitor?

• What first prompted your interest in the profession?

• How have you researched the profession?

• Are there particular areas of law that interest you? 

My initial interest in law evolved from a broader interest in commercial activity. During a work experience placement at [redacted UK bank]’s Legal Department, I attended training sessions on product development, and I gained an insight into the intricate cross-over between black-letter law and the commercial reality of running a business. By participating in a variety of firm-led masterclasses and open days, I considered how companies anticipate risks and opportunities to maintain their competitive advantage. This consolidated my interest in business development, particularly with regards to contingency planning and risk forecasting. This was something I particularly enjoying exploring in my [redacted non-law] undergraduate degree. The prospect of utilising this interest as a commercial lawyer to cultivate a deep understanding of a client’s industry is very appealing.

During my time as a Legal Advisor at the [redacted automotive services company], I learnt that I really enjoy finding solutions for clients, assisting them with their legal objectives and working in an advisory role. I was required to quickly diagnose legal problems and provide advice. For example, one client worked as a freelance seamstress, undertaking ad hoc work with a wedding dress company. The client had not been paid on-time and the nature of the work meant the contractual obligations were vague. Having extracted the salient information, I advised the client on her legal options and the best way to obtain payment for her work. I enjoy problem-solving and thinking critically about complex issues.

Finally, I want to be a commercial lawyer because I would enjoy the high levels of responsibility whilst working in a pressurised environment. As a Legal Advisor, I advised clients on matters that were of great individual importance. A people-facing role appeals to me because I find building relationships with clients very rewarding, and I know I would enjoy being entrusted with this personal responsibility. 

I am interested in a broad range of different practice areas, however since spending a week at a firm specialising in litigious work, I believe I would enjoy the highly varied nature of commercial litigation and the satisfaction of completing a case within dispute resolution.

2. Why have you chosen to apply to Charles Russell Speechlys? (350)

• How have you researched the firm?

• How has our work captured your interest?

• Why have you applied to this particular office location? 

My initial interest in Charles Russell Speechlys began with a conversation with Christian Massey at the University of [redacted Russell Group university]’s law fair, where I gained a valuable insight into the varied nature of the work that the firm undertakes. We discussed Christian’s work within the private client sector, specifically private property which appeals to me because of the client-facing role I would enjoy, even as a trainee. Similarly, the London office’s leading property litigation sector also appeals because I gained an insight into this area during a work placement at [redacted law firm] LLP. The firm acknowledges the importance of encouraging exposure in multiple practice areas, and it is highly appealing that Charles Russell Speechlys provides excellent services in a range of sectors.

I followed up this introduction with further research on the internet and in discussion with James at the 2019 LawCareers.net LIVE event. The firm’s lean composition facilitates a unique training opportunity. A modest intake means trainees are vested with considerable responsibility, particularly with regards to client interaction. James explained how this exposure is complemented by a unique people-focused culture. This is supported by excellent individualised supervision and a practical learning environment. I worked in a similar arrangement at RAC and the ability to learn through open communication channels, instantaneous feedback and passive observation were fundamental to my professional development. 

Charles Russell Speechlys’s global span and the cross-jurisdictional nature of private client work resonates with me. This practice area can necessitate extensive international collaboration and the firm facilitates this through a network of global offices. This is exemplified by Topland Group’s recent acquisition of a London property, in which security was taken from Lux and Hong Kong entities. The firm was able to utilise its cross-jurisdictional teams to deliver financing solutions in a particularly short timeframe. As well as contributing to the varied nature of the work, differing standards of national law pose additional complexity. This enhances the sense of satisfaction that follows from fulfilling a client’s objectives. I would enjoy collaborating with colleagues overseas, experiencing the entire trajectory of a deal and the challenges such work presents.

3. What achievement are you most proud of and why? (350)

• How did you challenge yourself in the process?

• Were there any set-backs you had to overcome?

• Which skills did you use to achieve this?

During my time working at the [redacted automotive services company], I dealt with a wide range of customers seeking legal advice. I was particularly proud to receive a formal commendation for helping a suicidal woman through a complex legal dispute that was causing her immense stress.

The client was dealing with nuisance neighbours and a convoluted boundary dispute. The details of the case were multifaceted and dated back several years. She had reached a point where she felt as though she may as well ‘not wake up tomorrow’ because she did not know what else to do. 

I spent significant time building trust with the client because she was suicidal, and I knew she felt let-down by the council and the police. She had previously been misadvised and was understandably hesitant to take further action that would be incorrect. 

I listened carefully to the client, extracting the relevant information and conducting a thorough review of the case file.

I then ordered this information chronologically to gain a holistic overview of case’s trajectory. 

Having compartmentalised the issues, I worked through each individually, applying my knowledge of Tort, Property and Criminal Law. 

I confidently explained the client’s legal position and suggested a series of practical next steps she could take to incrementally resolve the dispute. 

I also made assurances to the client that I would be available for further clarification by email or phone. 

The client later informed my manager that my advice had not only helped to solve the problem but more importantly, I had made her feel significantly more positive in herself. My manager listened to a recording of the call, and I subsequently received a formal commendation. In my appraisal, I was specifically praised for my resilience and handling of the difficult situation, particularly as I had only recently finished training.

I was very grateful that I had given the client hope in a desperate situation and proud that my advice had gone beyond resolving just a legal dispute. 

4. Can you tell us about a time when you have worked in a team? This could be in a work, educational or social capacity. (350)

• What were your particular responsibilities?

• How did you have to adapt your communication style?

• What did you learn from the experience? 

During my time working at [redacted name of pub], I assisted with the training of new employees. This required a high degree of coordination with my colleagues because we had to balance the completion of pressing tasks whilst ensuring that newcomers were being sufficiently trained. 

Without being given clear guidance on how to assist with the training, I used my discretion and initiative to help newcomers with the tasks that I had needed assistance with when I had been new. For example, during periods when the bar was not too busy, I took the opportunity to teach my colleagues how to make certain drinks that I knew were popular with our customers. I demonstrated where the correct glasses were and how to measure the alcohol accurately. It was important that I was acutely aware of the fluctuating levels of demand to ensure that priority was always given to serving customers promptly. I also learnt to be sensitive to the needs and feelings of each new team-member, particularly with regards to understanding how much training they had already received that day and how much information they could reasonably be expected to retain. This required regular communication with my new colleagues and as a result I formed strong bonds with them, built on trust and confidence. 

Since I was not given direct responsibility for the training of a particular employee or for a specific task, it was necessary to frequently consult with my other colleagues to ensure I was not repeating training that had already been delivered. This was inefficient. I suggested to my manager that we divide and allocate the training to different team members. In this way, training would be more coordinated, and the newcomers would benefit from getting to know each of their colleagues in turn. My manager accepted my suggestion and implemented a mentorship-type training program.

2021

Why do you want to be a solicitor and which areas of law interest you? (200 words)

The two-year Pathways to Law scheme at [university] first encouraged me to pursue a career in law. Through various workshops and networking events, I developed a greater understanding of the law and the different areas within it. I was most drawn in by the broad spectrum of legal work that is undertaken for private clients such as tax, family disputes and property management. The opportunity to build long-term relationships with these individuals by understanding their needs and tailoring my advice to this feedback would be highly rewarding.

Through my work experience, I have seen and taken on board the skills required to be a successful solicitor, including communication and negotiation abilities. At [Premier League] Football Club I attended a partnership meeting to go over the terms of an agreement and it was engaging to hear the different viewpoints of the parties, particularly on intellectual property in sport aspects. As a sporty person, I am also intrigued by sports law and the rapid developments occurring with the progression of technology. It encourages interesting discussions for both participants and fans in respect of regulations, brands and data usage.

Why have you chosen to apply to Charles Russell Speechlys? (200 words)

Charles Russell Speechlys’ diverse culture with a focus on engaging with people, not robots, is a major differentiator from other firms. This is evidenced by your firm's strong reputation in your core sectors, as shown by the significant number of high rankings in Legal500, and the quality work, for example advising Russian oligarch Arkady Rotenberg on the financial aspects of his £3 billion divorce.

Further, the international reach of your firm provides the chance to work with businesses from a range of cultures and backgrounds, creating exciting and intellectually stimulating work. The dedication to doing things differently is inspiring not only to potential recruits but also to new clients, meaning the firm is likely to grow even stronger in the near future.

Finally, the client contact time offered at your firm entices me as it would facilitate a better understanding of the clients business, making me a better and more well-rounded solicitor. With an 88% retention rate of newly qualified solicitors in 2019, Charles Russell Speechlys is clearly a firm that challenges yet supports its trainees which greatly appeals to me.

How do you like to spend your free time when you are not studying or working? (200 words)

I have enjoyed playing hockey over the last year, training and playing matches with my local club. It is a great way to wind down after work, meet new people and keep fit. I feel it is important to maintain this balance as it means I can come to the office with a positive mind set, able to fully focus on my work. I successfully completed Tough Mudder this year; a ten-kilometre run with various obstacles such as electric wires and mud mounds. Thoroughly enjoying this challenge, I have also signed up to a half marathon. These challenges are often extremely difficult but always worth the effort. It will be extremely tough but I am hoping the training will pay off and it will be a great achievement.

Recently, I have also enjoyed completing several escape rooms. I have found they are a great way to encourage you to think outside the box to solve puzzles and figure out how to escape. It has developed my problem-solving skills and is also a fun activity to do with friends and family.

You have just stepped into an elevator with the managing partner of Charles Russell Speechlys. What three key points would you want them to know about you and why? (250 words)

The first key point I would want Simon Ridpath to know is that I am an extremely determined individual and work hard to achieve my goals. At university, I put in a lot of time and effort to achieve a first-class honours in my law degree. I ensured I was organised and managed my time to enjoy my extracurricular activities as well as achieve consistently strong grades. This is essential to achieve a balance for a career in law as time management is important to stay on top of work and other activities.

The second key point is my ability to work well in a team. Through my different sports and jobs, I have developed the interpersonal skills required to work effectively with others. I understand the importance of listening to other viewpoints, which reflects the focus on collaboration at Charles Russell Speechlys.

The final key point is my willingness to get involved in every opportunity. At university I joined numerous clubs, including the commercial awareness society involving various workshops. This expanded my knowledge on the key issues law firms face and I enjoyed taking part in the different activities. Recently at Shoosmiths LLP I have taken on responsibility for writing a monthly office newsletter. This has enhanced my awareness of the different areas of law and the types of clients involved. Therefore, I feel I could bring a lot to the firm through my hardworking and enthusiastic attitude and willingness to take on responsibility.

What achievement are you most proud of and why? (200 words)

 My greatest accomplishment is achieving a first-class honours in my law degree. I am proud because I managed this while getting involved in a number of activities and clubs at university. As an open-minded and enthusiastic person, I looked to join something new so played for the korfball team where I enjoyed training and competing as part of a team in a different sport. In addition, I volunteered for [university] Nightline, a listening service for students, working 13-hour night shifts taking calls on a variety of issues. Calls included extremely serious and sensitive topics but I was fulfilled to know that I was helping someone who may have been struggling with their time at university. Through extensive training I learned how listening is fundamental to solving problems and that empathy is an essential skill to adapt to a situation. Being able to keep up with my studies alongside these activities to achieve a first I believe demonstrates my hardworking attitude and willingness to get involved in all opportunities.