Thank you so much Abbie this is super helpful!!Hey!
That's a great question! For the "motivations for applying to Clifford Chance" question, I'd say it's best to strike a balance between why the firm and why commercial law, but with a clear emphasis on Clifford Chance itself.
You can briefly mention what draws you to commercial law (just a couple of lines to show awareness of the role itself and your genuine interest in the field), but the bulk of your answer should focus on why Clifford Chance specifically. Have a think about what sets the firm apart, and why that appeals to you - both due to your skill set and attributes, and your future career goals. This could be its global reach, approach to innovation, key practice areas, culture, or particular initiatives. I would try and discuss a couple of these areas, rather than relying on just one.
The key is to be specific and personal - show that you have done your research and that there's a genuine connection between your interests and what Clifford Chance offers. This is how you ensure that your application is tailored to the firm, and will help you stand out!
I hope that assists, and good luck with your application!
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
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For Orrick, the cover letter question seems like a bit of an overlap with the subsequent questions.
The first question is:
Please use the space below for your cover letter. Please address your cover letter to Pete Sugden. (300 words)
But the other 2 questions are :
Why have you decided to pursue a career as a commercial lawyer? What factors and influences have affected your decision? (300 words)
Why specifically are you interested in training at Orrick? What makes us different to the other firms you have applied for? (300 words)
How do I write a cover letter when why commercial law and why Orrick are already asked? Do I cover things I haven't covered in 2 + 3 or vice versa?
Thanks
The first question is:
Please use the space below for your cover letter. Please address your cover letter to Pete Sugden. (300 words)
But the other 2 questions are :
Why have you decided to pursue a career as a commercial lawyer? What factors and influences have affected your decision? (300 words)
Why specifically are you interested in training at Orrick? What makes us different to the other firms you have applied for? (300 words)
How do I write a cover letter when why commercial law and why Orrick are already asked? Do I cover things I haven't covered in 2 + 3 or vice versa?
Thanks
Hello!For Orrick, the cover letter question seems like a bit of an overlap with the subsequent questions.
The first question is:
Please use the space below for your cover letter. Please address your cover letter to Pete Sugden. (300 words)
But the other 2 questions are :
Why have you decided to pursue a career as a commercial lawyer? What factors and influences have affected your decision? (300 words)
Why specifically are you interested in training at Orrick? What makes us different to the other firms you have applied for? (300 words)
How do I write a cover letter when why commercial law and why Orrick are already asked? Do I cover things I haven't covered in 2 + 3 or vice versa?
Thanks
You're absolutely right that there's some overlap between the cover letter and the two subsequent questions - it can feel a bit repetitive at first glance! The trick is to think of the cover letter as the big picture narrative that ties everything together, while the other two questions let you to into depth on specific points.
One way to approach it could be:
- Cover Letter: Treat this as your overall introduction and pitch. I would summarise who you are, your motivation for law in broad terms, and why Orrick stands out to you - but keep it concise and integrated between each section. You don't need to unpack every detail here, just enough to create a coherent, personal story and show enthusiasm!
- "Why commercial law?" question: Use this to explore your motivations in more detail - you could refer to specific experiences, influences, or reflections that made you decide to pursue a career in commercial law. This is a chance to go deeper into the why, not just the what.
- "Why Orrick" question: This is an opportunity to show real research and insight into the firm. Focus on showing your interest in the firm, and what genuinely differentiates Orrick - it's clients, international reach, innovation, culture, training structure, etc. Tie in your previous experiences and skill set to why this makes you a good fit for the firm, and how it's unique features make it the right place for you to train.
I hope that helps!
Bristows STEM IP Workshop place! My top choice of firm and got rejected from this last year so super excited about this!
Which open day is this for, and when did you recieved the second stage asessment?
Last year grad rec (Caitlin) gave a hint about the video interview question and said it was linked to integrity.
I’m not sure if it will be similar for this year
Congrats! Is this for the one with the October 24th application deadline? So did you do your VI last week?
Hi! I believe it is was and I completed the video interview on 28th. It's the workshop taking place on December 3rd!
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