2024
NOTE - the candidate no longer had their acceptance email to prove that this application was successful, so this technically isn't verified. However, I saw proof that they were invited to a number of interviews at other Scottish law firms, so believe them in this instance.
Please give an example of a challenge that you have set yourself and describe how you have gone about achieving it. (100-150 words)
In 2021 I took on the position of Fundraising Leader in [redacted], a society I am part of at university and we set ourselves on a fundraising target to [redacted]. I collaborated with other students to look at realistic goals we could achieve based on opportunities and items required for those opportunities to be reached for our learners. I organised several events engaging with our university community and the public including a winter clothing drive, a documentary showing to raise awareness of [redacted] and to encourage participation in further events, and [redacted].
How have you responded to a difficult situation?
In my work as a waitress in the [redacted], there was a change of café ownership which was a difficult situation for many of the staff who had been there for many years, and myself and other recent starts who were uneasy with the new changes which were being implemented. The new owners began changing a lot of the cafes operations, from menu, to close down procedures, to opening hours. I struggled at first having to tell regular customers certain dishes they enjoyed were off the menu and balancing the new hours working with my studies and in summer with my other job. But I soon settled into how things were running and enjoyed working in a new environment. I learned to adapt to the changing environment and embrace its benefits.
Please provide details of any positions of responsibility that you have held or achievements of which you are proud. (100-150 words)
I worked as a Brand Ambassador for a new society called [redacted], this position allowed me to [redacted]. We ran fundraising drives for [redacted]. I am incredibly proud of the work I did as Brand Ambassador including editing content for the [redacted] and hosting events such as [redacted].
Why did you decide to study law? (100-150 words)
In high school, I struggled to decide what I wanted to study at university; I was swaying between Mathematics, Politics, and Law. I felt each offered me something I was good at and very interested in, but I wasn’t confident which one I felt was right. I did work experience shadowing a [redacted] and a week experience at [redacted[ law firm, both of which affirmed my interest in law and desire to pursue a career in law. I gained valuable exposure to the law in practice by shadowing and observing client interactions and court visits. It inspired me to study it further
What was the reasoning behind your Honours subject choice? (100-150 words)
After completing my second year, my Honours subject selection was driven by a clear alignment with my core passions: employment, international, and medical law. My interest in employment law stemmed from working for over five years in the hospitality sector. I became familiar with the complex labour regulations solidifying my choice to study it further.
My academic journey led me to explore public, private, and advanced international law modules, further accentuated by a specialised module undertaken during my year abroad in [redacted] focusing on international arbitration, dispute resolution and climate emergencies. The prospect of contributing to global relations and engaging with matters on an international scale resonates deeply with me.
What would you consider to be the key skills needed by a solicitor? (100-150 words)
Navigating the legal sphere requires many varied skills main ones which stand out for me are legal expertise, critical and analytical thinking, communication, and organisation. A well-versed foundation in case law, statutes and regulations is essential to offer an accurate service to clients. Second, assessing situations, interpreting complex legal problems, and devising solutions would be key to a solicitor's work. Likewise, clear, and effective communication, written down and verbal, would be used daily to interact with clients. Finally, without organisation, a solicitor's work would not be manageable or achievable, as numerous tasks and deadlines would need to be met, so solicitors need to manage their time effectively.
What is it about BTO that interests you? (100-150 words)
BTO is a firm that interests me as it offers a strong presence across many practice areas and has an excellent reputation, particularly in the medical negligence sector. Moreover, BTO has a really progressive outlook and dedication to professional growth. Its emphasis on training opportunities and avenues for progression aligns perfectly with my future aspirations. Indeed, BTO’s proactivity in adapting to the evolving legal landscape is hugely impressive. This is the main reason why I am interested in being trained in a full-service law firm like BTO, as I can gain exposure to many practice areas, which will be invaluable for my professional journey. In essence, BTO’s wide-ranging expertise, commitment to growth, adaptability, and client-focused approach creates an environment that piques my interest greatly and fuels my desire to apply to this firm.
Why should we pick you? (100-150 words)
My skill set is well-rounded, adaptable and constantly growing. I have the passion and drive to learn, which can benefit BTO like no other candidate. I have a unique background of over five years of hospitality experience, my law degree, extracurricular volunteering, and experience in leadership positions in my societies. I am not shy about hard work and have been able to balance my commitments throughout law school, showing my timekeeping and organisational skills. I am keen to learn and expand my practical legal experience, meaning I will work hard to be an asset to BTO.
What interests do you have outside the law? (100-150 words)
Outside of my studies and work, I have interests in netball, running and football. I have just finished my football season and plan to continue running this year working up to a marathon.
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