What if one day at a law firm could change your future?
If you’re reading this, you probably want to become a commercial lawyer at one of the most respected international law firms in the world. You like the idea of working in a small team alongside the most experienced lawyers in the world across practices like private equity, litigation and finance. You’re excited by the prospect of taking on responsibility as a trainee, working closely alongside associates and partners, and working within a firm that genuinely cares about your development.
And if that’s you, we’d like you to apply to the first ever TCLA/Willkie Open Day on 23 September 2025.
What happens at the Willkie Open Day?
On the day, you’ll meet Gemma Baker, Willkie’s Senior Graduate Recruitment Manager, to help you stand out in your application to the firm.
During the practice area talks, you’ll hear from lawyers about the work they do within private equity, finance or litigation.
You’ll then hear directly from a panel of trainees about the quality of work and culture at Willkie, where you’ll be able to ask any questions about what it’s really like to be at the firm.
Finally, we’ll end the day with networking, where you’ll be able to speak to both lawyers and trainees at Willkie.
How to Apply
Please complete this application form.
Applying to the Open Day is an excellent way to make a strong impression ahead of your vacation scheme application. Please note that we expect to receive a substantial number of applications.
To increase your chances of a successful application:
- Make sure you take the time to proofread your writing.
- Demonstrate what you know about Willkie and why you want to join this specific open day (this page may help).
- Highlight why you’d be a great fit for the firm. It’s not about how impressive your experiences are, but try to be specific about what you have done and your willingness to work hard.
- Be sure to answer each question fully and upload your CV.
When should you apply?
The deadline to apply is 3 September 2025.
Applicants will be progressed on a rolling basis. This means the sooner you submit your application the better.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Open Day is held on the 23rd September 2025 from 12pm to 4pm.
Yes. Willkie would like to make sure this event is accessible to everyone. Any reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.
Take the time to write a really good application. This means it should be thoroughly proofed, you demonstrate a clear and specific interest in Willkie, and you show that you would be a great fit for the firm.
The day will include lunch with trainees, a trainee panel event, a practice area workshop, networking with lawyers, and a talk from Gemma Baker, the Senior Recruitment Manager at Willkie.
This Open Day is for applicants who have not been to a Willkie Open Day before. If you’ve met Willkie at a virtual event, please do apply.
The deadline is the 3 September 2025 at 11:59pm. We recommend applying early.
There are 50 places available.
