Hi Georgia, could you please introduce yourself and explain your legal journey so far?
Georgia: I am originally from South London and took a slightly unusual route to gaining a training contract offer. I studied English and Modern History at the University of St Andrews and initially intended to become a journalist. After working shifts at various newspapers, I realised journalism was not the right career for me. During one internship, I worked with a journalist covering a National Action trial at the Old Bailey, which encouraged me to explore the legal world for my postgraduate career.
I attended numerous Law Society events at St Andrews and during my year abroad at Macquarie University. I have always been interested in the global and commercial scope of law, so in late 2019 I fully committed to the legal path. I completed two vacation schemes and gained a training contract offer from Shearman and Sterling in 2020.
Having studied a non-law degree, how did you decide you were interested in commercial law?
Georgia: Although people often told me that History aligned more naturally with law than English, my English degree actually ignited my interest in commercial law. The skills I developed, such as attention to detail, research and managing a heavy reading load, prepared me well for legal work.
My work experience also shaped my interest. I completed work experience at Northern Trust Bank in 2015 and became fascinated by Client Service Agreements and how businesses operate. I also developed a strong interest in current financial affairs, which made commercial law feel exciting and globally relevant.
Why did you decide to complete your training contract at Shearman and Sterling?
Georgia: I used on-campus events and online panels to understand what I wanted from a firm. As a non-law student, I initially had a limited idea of which practice areas appealed to me, so I focused on full-service firms that offered breadth. Shearman & Sterling demonstrated this during my first interview, where I discussed the LIBOR-to-SONIA benchmark change with a senior associate. I left the interview having learned a great deal and knew the firm would help me reach my full potential.
As a slightly older applicant, I wanted a firm that offered trainees responsibility. Shearman’s smaller intake means trainees can take on significant work from their first seat. The firm’s core practice areas, including Finance and M&A, aligned with my interests. I also wanted a firm with strong international opportunities, and Shearman’s secondments in Singapore and New York were a major attraction.
Did you attend any Shearman and Sterling events before applying?
Georgia: Yes. Shearman and Sterling held the first open day I ever attended. I still remember the partner’s honest assessment of the legal world, which encouraged me to apply. I was accepted onto the vacation scheme, although it did not take place, and I proceeded to the assessment centre.
I also highly recommend the firm’s graduate recruitment resources. Their Whiteboard Wednesdays, featuring partners and the recruitment team, provide excellent insight into US firms and their role in the London market. These resources heavily encouraged me to apply and strengthened my application.
As a student with a disability, how has this impacted your experience applying for commercial law roles?
Georgia: Applying for demanding corporate roles can feel daunting when managing physical or learning disabilities. The workload and research required for applications can feel overwhelming. The best advice I received was to be open if you feel comfortable. Firms have gone out of their way to offer reasonable adjustments, such as allowing me to word-process exclusively. There is also open dialogue about whether supervisors should be informed, which I appreciate.
It is also important to know that having a disability does not exclude you from corporate work. Some of the most innovative lawyers I have met also have disabilities. Imposter syndrome can make this difficult, but corporate law can absolutely be the place for you.
How did you build and demonstrate commercial awareness?
Georgia: Commercial awareness can be challenging if your degree does not involve current affairs or economics. I knew this was my weakest area, so I studied widely. Reading the Financial Times, The Lawyer and Politics Home helped me stay up to date. It is also useful to see what partners say about emerging trends, as this can spark strong discussions in interviews.
Investopedia helped me learn financial terminology, which was essential during my vacation scheme. Firm-specific resources were also invaluable. Shearman’s Whiteboard Wednesdays and Herbert Smith Freehills’ Digital Law Course gave me insight into digital law and emerging challenges, which helped me deepen my understanding.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the legal sector right now?
Georgia: There are many challenges, from digital contracts and AI to the expansion of the anti-money laundering industry. However, I believe diversity and retaining diverse talent is one of the biggest issues. The Solicitors Regulation Authority highlighted this in its Risk Outlook. Remote working and new office technologies make this conversation even more important.
Law firms must adapt to retain diverse talent and meet client expectations. The rise of ESG advisers reflects this shift. As we saw during COVID, the sector can adjust quickly, but maintaining and supporting a diverse workforce remains a critical challenge.
If there is one piece of advice you wish you had known before applying for training contracts, what would it be?
Georgia: All experience is valid. Retail, bar work, and commercial roles all demonstrate client-facing skills and teamwork. Yo u may be tempted to become someone else in anticipation of what recruiters want, but being honest about your transferable skills is key.
It is also important to try to enjoy the application cycle. You will meet a wide range of people across the sector, and each round improves your knowledge and commercial awareness. This prepares you for future work and, hopefully, helps you secure a training contract offer.
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