How to convert a Vacation Scheme into a Training Contract ?

Amma Usman

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Does anyone know what is meant by 'commercial exercise with two associates' for the Fried Frank 1st stage interview?

Hiya,

Huge well done on the scheme. I’ve quoted a post with some tips to help.

Another thing to add to the below is that you shouldn’t feel the need to overwhelm yourself with prepping over so much data before starting. A lot of it will be on the job (this is, of course, assuming that the firm has not told you to prep anything in advance).

I trust you. You’re gonna do very well :)

Hiya!

I’ve quoted this post to help ;)

Please let us know if you’ve got any questions at all!!!
 

Amma Usman

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Hi,

You’ve got a solid starting point here, and with a few tweaks, it can become even stronger. Another thing is that the firm is already built up to a high standard, so what you can do instead is phrase it as you wanting to help it grow further. But even this can appear generic without the proper backing. Maybe identify any gaps in the market and how you could cater to that as an aspiring lawyer. Or even showcase any commercial awareness on things that are trending now in sectors of law that you see the firm thriving in and how you can contribute to that.

For example, private credit has been booming lately. If the firm has made any hires into this practice, discuss the whys, discuss the opportunities, and how the firm can scale its resources to cater to market demand. What sets it apart from other firms that have private credit practices, for example? Why is it Paul Weiss’s specific practice you want to join? This is a question that requires you to look deep into your motivations to answer and apply to the question effectively.

Another thing is that if this is an application answer to “Why Paul Weiss?”, there are better ways to approach the question. For example, start with a core practice area. Why does that appeal to you? Is there any niche area, whether regionally or work-wise, that appeals to you? Why does it appeal? Is it maybe a past experience, or webinar you attended? A lawyer you spoke to at the firm? A past vacation schemer? These are all great questions to ask and apply to the firm, showing a strong interest in the firm.

My main hack with applications: always ask if it can be taken to level 2. If you can remove a firm’s name and copy and paste an application for that law firm into another law firm’s application portal, chances are you need to be more specific.

You’re off to a great start. I truly believe in your potential to ace this. Keep going!
 

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