Answering 'Why Skadden?'

[aditik]

Hey guys!

So I am currently trying to complete and submit my Skadden application, and I am facing issues with answering 'Why Skadden?' in a satisfactory manner.

The main reasons for why I decided to apply to Skadden were:

1. The exceptional international arbitration practice (and some really cool deals such as their work representing South Sudan in an ICSID dispute against Sudapet, but I feel like this deal is so famous, nearly every other candidate will mention it?) rounded with a well-established corporate practice; this distinguishes it from some other U.S. firms in London, whose training contracts tend to be transactionally heavy.

2. The small trainee intake of around 10-12 each year; I like this because it means you may have a greater sense of community with your trainee cohort, more flexibility in tailoring the TC to your needs, and hopefully, greater levels of responsibility (though I realise that none of these are necessarily a given.)

I am not sure how to make my reasons more specific to Skadden. Anyone on this forum who has a bit to add? Or anyone who made it to the Skadden ac previously?
Thanks guys

 

[Naomi]

I think those reasons are perfectly good ones. What would make it specific is including how you’re aligned to those things as that will be different for everyone. So why you think exposure to high quality work in both litigation and corporate will benefit your TC. Or how you’re suited to an environment with smaller teams and greater responsibility eg through work experience.

I applied to Skadden this cycle and haven’t heard back yet btw. But that’s how I approached it anyway

 

[aditik]

I think those reasons are perfectly good ones. What would make it specific is including how you’re aligned to those things as that will be different for everyone. So why you think exposure to high quality work in both litigation and corporate will benefit your TC. Or how you’re suited to an environment with smaller teams and greater responsibility eg through work experience.

I applied to Skadden this cycle and haven’t heard back yet btw. But that’s how I approached it anyway

Ahh perfect! That's re-assuring ahahha. And good luck, I hope it's good news for both of us