Hey!
From what I can see, the questions for
CMS' Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship are:
- Why do you want to join CMS as a Graduate Solicitor Apprentice, and how does this route support your long term goals? (Max 200 words)
- Describe a challenge you faced. How did you deal with it, and what did you learn from the experience? (Max 200 words)
- Tell us about a time you used AI or technology to improve a process or fix an issue. What did you do, and what was the outcome? (Max 200 words)
I'll address how I'd approach each one below!
Why CMS + why the apprenticeship route
I would split this into two parts:
- Why CMS: show that you have researched the firm properly (i.e. their sector strengths, international reach, the types of clients they work with, innovation / AI, training culture, etc.). Make sure to keep it specific to the firm and show how that specifically suits you based on your past experiences and future goals.
- Why the apprenticeship route: explain why you are choosing to apply for the apprenticeship route, rather than the traditional TC. This could be combining study with practice or early responsibility - just make sure to link it to yourself, and to your goal of qualifying at a firm like CMS.
Challenge Question
I would use a light STAR-style structure, but keep the focus on:
- The challenge - not just the task itself
- How you personally responded and the steps you took to address the challenge
- What you learned as a result of the experience (you could highlight skills / behaviours that CMS cares about specifically)
I would make sure to address the learning point, as this is often the part of the question that they are looking for!
AI / Technology Question
They won't be expecting a super technical answer, but want to see that you have an understanding of AI and technology and how it can be utilised in a responsible way. I would:
- Briefly explain the problem
- Outline what technology or AI tool you used (even basic AI tools can work well!)
- Discuss the impact that using the technology or AI had - this could be time saved, improved accuracy, etc.
- Conclude with what it shows about your overall mindset and approach to technology - for example, that you aim to be innovative and adaptable and want to utilise technology to assist you where you can.
I hope that helps, and best of luck with your application!
