Hi!
This question definitely feels confusing at first, but it's actually more about understanding you rather than testing your commitment to law. Skadden wants to see how you think, what motivates you outside the standard "commercial law" narrative, and whether you can give a thoughtful and well-rounded explanation of your interests.
A strong 250-word answer will usually cover three main things:
1. Pick a genuine alternative career
It doesn't need to be similar to commercial law, but it can be if that is your genuine answer. However, picking something different often works as it gives them a clear picture of you as a person. As long as it is credible and you can back it up with reasons for why you would choose it, any career path should be fine!
2. Explain why that career appeals to you
The main focus should be on what draws you to it - this could be problem-solving, strategy, creativity, leadership, analytical thinking, working with people, etc. This should show what drives you and makes your answer authentic and personal. Discuss the elements of the role that you would like and why your skills would be well suited for it.
3. Indirectly reveal strengths and transferable skills
You don't need to link it back to Skadden explicitly, but you can highlight the underlying qualities that you'd bring to any career (including a career in commercial law).
For example, if you choose journalism, this could include curiosity, communication, and distilling complex information - all traits that are very transferable to the role of a trainee solicitor. This allows Skadden to infer the traits you'd bring as a trainee without you hammering the point home.
The two main things that I would avoid in your answer are:
- Don't say a career that undermines your motivation for law (e.g. "I'd be happier doing anything else" or "I'm really open minded to lots of career paths and haven't decided", etc.)
- Don't force a cliche "this is basically law but with a different name" answer - they want to see what your genuine interests and motivations are!
250 words are there to let you develop your reasoning and personality, not to trip you up! As long as you write a genuine answer and back it up with real motivations, you can write a really strong answer. I hope that helps, and best of luck!
