In their words | Cultivating connections in corporate law

When did you realize that you wanted to pursue a legal career?

I wanted to pursue a legal career as far back as I can remember — it offered an entrepreneurial career path where I could focus on problem solving. The decision to pursue accounting was always with the mindset that I would end up practicing law — I was an undergraduate student at Auburn University in 2008 — times were tough, outlook was scary — the accounting program offered a skillset that I thought would translate well. Thankfully so, my accounting background has been beneficial in practice.

Are you involved in any pro bono or public service work?

I’ve been fortunate to practice law in two cities (Atlanta and Chicago) which have extremely well-developed pro bono infrastructures and it’s been a joy to help in both over the years. I’ve recently assisted a social enterprise in Chicago which focuses its efforts on the empowerment of women. It’s always a cool experience to find ways to use your skillset on pro bono initiatives.

How did Georgia State Law help shape your career path?

by Lauren

Georgia State was an incredible experience — I don’t think the diversity of life experience among the student body can be overstated. The school’s part-time students always brought a fresh perspective to every class. Professor Ellen Taylor’s Corporations class jumps to mind and undoubtedly set me on my path to a career in corporate law. I also served as a Graduate Research Assistant for Professor Cass Brewer — someone who had great success in private practice and has always made the time to discuss the ups and downs of it all.

Were you involved with any student organizations at the College of Law?

I was a member of the Law Review. It was a great experience in many ways. The emphasis on the “little things” helped prepare me for private practice and reshaped my approach to writing. From a social perspective, I made some of my closest friends —people that, despite me being in Chicago, I still keep in close touch with and look to for feedback in all aspects of life ten years later.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your current role at Kirkland & Ellis?

Kirkland & Ellis offers the opportunity to work on sophisticated matters and develop relationships with some of the sharpest attorneys around the world. The most rewarding aspect is when we’re presented with a novel issue, and we work collaboratively to provide the best possible guidance for our clients.

What advice would you give one of our current students who wanted to follow in your footsteps?

The easy answer is that you will need to work incredibly hard and stay resilient — any career in private practice will have times of adversity and you need to be ready to roll with the punches. More importantly, I would say to focus on your inner circle — whether it’s your parents, your significant other, your friends, your kids, or whoever, no one does it alone and they are the ones that will provide the spark to get through the tough days. Lastly, keep an open mind and, when the right opportunity presents itself, don’t be afraid to take a chance.

Cot Eversole (J.D. ’15) is a corporate partner in the Chicago office of Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Eversole represents issuers and sponsors in connection with all types of public and private capital markets transactions.