Application Season: How To Prepare Yourself For Applications

Article written by Chloe Y.T. Ng, a Final Year Law Undergraduate.

Gosh! Deadlines are approaching! (and here I am not referring to your coursework deadlines, but the deadlines for the vacation schemes, mini-pupillages, and the like). As a law student, you might be worried as to how to make yourself stand out amongst a sea of candidates. This article will discuss and introduce some useful tips to you. Hopefully the following advice will come in handy!

CV

The first  question you might have is “why is a CV so important?”. A CV is absolutely important for law students since it demonstrates your suitability for the role and determines the chance as to whether you will be selected by chambers or law firms. A good CV should include your contact details, academic performance over the years, your work experience(s), awards, etc. Ideally, under each section you should include anything that you have achieved, it could be some skills or reflections. You should also include a few lines to briefly introduce yourself which allows the chambers or law firms to know more about you. For example, you may write about your future aspirations, your favourite area of the law, your passion or goals, and whatnot.

Work Experience(s)

Without a shadow of a doubt, looking for work experience(s) can be tough and daunting, providing there is tons of competition out there. But first, you must believe in yourself that you are good enough to compete with other candidates. Confidence is the prime key that leads to success. You should never be discouraged under any circumstances. It is highly recommended that you make good use of LinkedIn and check the websites of the chambers and law firms regularly so that you are kept updated.

The majority of employers, chambers and law firms tend to look for bright and smart candidates. By such means, academic excellence is no longer a sole consideration factor for them during the selection process, and the importance of prior work experience(s) creeps in. Here is the issue, you might not have any prior work experience and perhaps not doing very well academically. Try looking for some roles that might be easier to apply. For instance, legal advisers at local charitable organisations or even law clinics at your university. If you make an effort, you will realise there are massive job opportunities out there for students like you.

Attitude

The final tip is stay calm and stay level-headed. No one can guarantee whether your application will be successful or not. Relax and treat each application as an experience and understand that it is part of the stage to success. Even if you get rejected, this does not mean you are incapable or failure. Whenever you feel overwhelmed or stressed, talk to your family and friends. You can also write down your feelings and take a deep breath that allows you to clear your mind. With practice, you will surely get the hang of it.

Good luck and all the best with your applications!