Past Clerkship Experiences

In this section

• MARINA HOUGH - Baker McKenzie • JOSEPHINE FENN - Ashurst • JOE BISSETT - Clayton Utz • DANIELLE LE LARGE - Herbert Smith Freehills • TOM GREEN - Bird & Bird • NINA PRICA - Maddocks • ALEX MOORE - K&L Gates • VRINDHA JAIN - King & Wood Mallesons • ELINOR BOWMAN - Gilbert + Tobin • NINA STAMMBACH - Norton Rose • WILL CHAFFEY - Corrs Chambers Westgarth • KATHERINE BEER - MinterEllison • JOHN EDMUNDS - Gilbert + Tobin

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MARINA HOUGH

Baker McKenzie

How did you tailor your CV and cover letter to each firm that you applied for? I researched the firms I applied for extensively and found elements that resonated with my interests, skills, and experience. These are large firms so each of them had practice areas or partners that worked on things I found interesting and wanted to learn more about. I found it valuable to look at the focus areas of partners within practice areas that interested me as this described the work they did in more detail.

Keep your CV short and only describe the most relevant work experience, but use all your experience in interviews to identify skills that you have. For example, I emphasised my legal and international experience more than my hospitality experience.

I focused on the narrative that came through my cover letter; how could the specific skills and interests I have contribute to: • A particular practice area or general line of legal work that they do (a practise area that interests you and/or a partner that does work you would like to get involved in); • to the firm as a whole (eg international transaction specialist/domestic top tier); and • to the culture of that firm (Eg diversity, gender equality, pro bono focus etc). • Make every sentence count, there really isn’t much room on one page.

Why did you choose your firm? Baker McKenzie has a globally renowned environmental markets team, a unique practise area, and the global head of climate change is based in Sydney. My CV already represented a lot of my legal and international experience which was more important to emphasise than my hospitality experience. The further I looked into the work that they do, and the people involved, the more I liked the sound of this team. I had focused on related environmental law subjects and university and have focused on extra-curriculars with an international focus which matched very well with this practise area and the firm more generally.

How did you prepare for interviews? I went to all the sessions provided by the firms I was most interested in, which I found very valuable to increase familiarisation with their differences and unique elements of each firm as well as getting a feeling for the culture represented by each firm.

I looked up clerkship common questions and took time to think of examples for them. They all revolve around demonstrating similar attributes so having a few good examples ready to go is very helpful. To manage nerves, I actually practiced my answers out loud which helped me to tie my experience and the firms’ expertise together with fluency. I spent time identifying what I think are my key attributes and incorporated these into my example responses to make sure I felt like my strengths were fairly represented. When answering the interview questions on the spot I didn’t recite any pre-written answer. Having gone over them out loud meant they were fresh in my mind and I could mould the key characteristics and exemplar experiences into my answers.

How did you demonstrate your commercial acumen and research firms? I have worked as a paralegal for a barrister and have undertaken secondments to other firms. I also had many part time hospitality jobs before that and had been a receptionist for five years. I used all this to demonstrate commercial acumen and a client centric understanding of business.

It’s not necessary to have this experience though. Focus on anything you have done and reiterate that you understand the process of receiving information, identifying key expectations, choosing the best strategy for getting something done efficiently, innovating and problem-solving when you meet roadblocks, and communicating your findings with a clear solutions orientation. Commerciality revolves around identifying and delivering on client needs in an effective way that adds value to their business.

How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process? I was careful to focus on the big picture. I found the process of reflecting on all my learning and experience valuable to clarify where I want to go with my career and what skills I have to contribute. This was an important process near the end of my degree and in terms of opportunities I was looking for regardless of the clerkship, so it's not wasted time. Learning to articulate what I wanted and the skills that I could contribute, as well as identifying what workplace values and culture is important to me was important.

I then just made sure I kept up with regular daily practices including exercise and meditation to make sure that I was able to stay clear minded and calm about the process. It is absolutely not the end of the world if you don’t attain a clerkship and having spent this time identifying your key aspirations can identify other pathways to pursue.

JOE BISSETT

Clayton Utz

If you could re-do your clerkship experience, from applications to the clerkship itself, what would you do differently? There are a few things I would do differently. Firstly, I would make sure that I wasn’t making the clerkship my golden-calf (forgive the biblical allusion).

The clerkship application season is a seriously tough slog; some students will complete 15 applications over the June-July semester break. The process is incredibly time and emotion intensive, and it has the potential to totally consume your existence. Do not let this happen.

Getting a clerkship is great, but it is in no way represents your adequacy as a lawyer, or a person. If you see the clerkship for what it actually is, you’ll be a far better headspace when it comes to inevitable rejection or potential success.

Secondly, I would really work on erasing the ‘imposter syndrome’ that I had at the start of my time at Clayton Utz. When you have really impressive friends who don’t get an offer, it’s easy to slip into a feeling of inadequacy amongst your peers in the clerkship cohort. If I were to have my time again, I would try and remind myself that I do belong, and that I have something to offer alongside the firm. How did you develop your commercial acumen and research firms? It cannot be overstated how important it is to research firms for clerkship applicants. In the interview stage, some interviewers may directly ask what makes their firm different from the others. If you cannot articulate the ethos and values of the firm or recall any interesting matters they have worked on, it will come across like you aren’t enthusiastic about the opportunity to work there.

Go to each firm’s website, look at their areas of expertise and values, and find out what resonates with you. Maybe it’s their extensive Pro Bono work, or their outstanding community engagement? Find something that genuinely impresses you and be ready to talk about it in the interview

Also, looking at recent news articles where the firm has been mentioned will also give you a greater understanding of the sort of matters they are involved in. The Firm’s website will also list some of the larger matters their teams have worked on.

Did you attend cocktail events? If so, how did you approach them? It depends on what you define as a ‘cocktail event.’ COVID-19 made the clerkship recruitment look very different to most years. The 2020 clerkship recruitment season meant that there were no face-to-face events – I didn’t even step foot in Clayton Utz until the first day of the clerkship!

Overall, cocktail events should be approached as an opportunity to learn more about the firm. Do not put pressure on yourself to compete with the other applicants – just be curious and get around anyone you engage with.

How did you develop your commercial acumen and research firms? Firm websites were very helpful in gaining an overall picture of the firm and where their expertise lies. There is a lot of information available on firm websites and in the media about major clients and projects that firms have worked on, so I made sure I was familiar with these. I made a point to mention work which the particular firm had done that I found most interesting in my applications/interviews.

How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process? The application process was daunting. I realised early on that I had to find a way to remain grounded throughout the challenging interviews, tests, and events. I made sure to maintain confidence in myself and my own value as a person and as a law student, completely separate from any outcomes of the recruitment process. This made it easier to deal with nervousness about rejection.

I also chose to limit communication with my peers about the application process. It’s easy to feel inadequate if you compare yourself to others when it comes to WAM, how many interviews/ offers you are getting, which firms you are being contacted by, etc. It was helpful to just focus on my own experience

JOSEPHINE FENN

Ashurst

If you could re-do your clerkship experience, from applications to the clerkship itself, what would you do differently? I wish I had started applications sooner! I thought I had given myself plenty of time, but in the end, I was still overwhelmed by just how long it took to write a tailored cover letter for each firm and put thought into answering the application questions. Firms receive so many applications from brilliant students, so it is important to show your interest in a specific firm to help your cover letter stand out.

Why did you choose your firm? I chose Ashurst because of the people. It can seem like a cliché, but it really is an important consideration in making the right choice for yourself. Throughout the application process I felt as though everyone I met from Ashurst was kind, approachable, and genuinely interested in getting to know candidates. I was also really impressed with the knowledge and expertise of the lawyers and partners that I had met and interviewed with, and I knew I wanted to work for and learn from these highly skilled lawyers.

How did you prepare for interviews? I would research the partners/lawyers I was interviewing with to get an idea of the kind of work they had done and their areas of expertise. It was easy to raise this information in the interview, as most of the time, the partner’s interests aligned with mine (as HR often matches interviewers to a candidate’s expressed areas of interest). I thought about what I might answer to questions I expected might be asked, but I did not pre-prepare answers.

I made sure I had a good sleep the night before and that my surroundings were quiet and professional, which was sometimes difficult when interviewing virtually. I did preprepare some questions to ask about the firm as well as about the interviewer’s specific experience, but also made sure that the questions I actually asked flowed with the conversation. During the interviews, I focused on being myself and remaining in the moment.

TOM GREEN

Bird & Bird

Why did you choose your firm? There were a few reasons I chose Bird & Bird. Firstly, I liked that the global firm is large, but the local office is moderately sized (around 120 people). I’ve found this to provide a nice balance, where we work on high profile and complex multi jurisdictional matters, with the opportunity for international career progression, but do so in an down to earth and personable office environment, where everyone knows each other on a first name basis. Secondly, Bird & Bird is renowned as a world leader in sectors that I was eager to work in. For me, these sectors were technology and communications, media entertainment and sport, where it is ranked number one globally. Thirdly, I was conscious that I wanted to build a career with a firm that would grow into the future. I think Bird & Bird’s mission, to be the number one law firm for companies being changed by the digital world, coupled with its deep expertise in burgeoning sectors, positions it well to do so.

What was the highlight of your clerkship? There were a lot of things I enjoyed throughout my clerkship. I enjoyed receiving more responsibility than I expected, usually working directly with a partner. One clear standout was during my rotations in the sports team, I attended negotiations between Rugby Australia and Stan/ Nine regarding a rugby broadcast agreement worth more than $100 million. It was a great experience to witness how two highly experienced, passionate and astute parties conducted a negotiation of crucial importance to both. I also thought it was indicative of the inclusive and down to earth culture at Bird & Bird, as the partner in charge invited me to tag along to such an important meeting.

How did you prepare for interviews? The key thing for me was to have five or six narratives, arising from the experiences detailed in my CV and cover letter, which I could then mould to different types of questions. I found the best way to practice these responses was with friends. We would go out for dinner or to the pub with our CVs and cover letters and quiz each other on variations of the types of questions we were expecting. Though this was a fun and relaxed setting, I found it super helpful as it gave me confidence and shaped how I answered questions in interviews. Why pursue a career in commercial law? This is an entirely personal thing that you must take the time to reflect on before embarking on the clerkship process. For me, it came down to wanting to help the people that constitute companies navigate complex issues. In that sense, I wanted to pursue a career in commercial law because it is a career based on personal relationships. I believe the opportunity to be a trusted adviser, guiding people through complex and significant issues, would be highly satisfying, and drew me to a career in commercial law.

How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process? Stress is best curtailed by preparation. So, I prepared as best as I could. I also found the MULS buddy program really useful in this regard, as it gave me the opportunity to chat through the process with someone who had already been throughout it successfully.

I was nervous for my interviews, but I tried to put them in perspective as a chat with a couple other humans, which is something we do every day. If my interview was in the afternoon, I made sure I got out for a bit of exercise in the morning to clear my mind and relax.

All in all, I think my management strategy was to control that which I could control, in terms of my preparation and attitude, and accept that the rest was out of my hands.

If you could re-do your clerkship experience, from applications to the clerkship itself, what would you do differently? I would RELAX. For all the perfectionist A-type law students with imposter syndrome reading this –stop being hard on yourself. Clerkships are just an internship. Securing a clerkship is absolutely NOT the end of the world. Wherever you want to go in your career, you can get there regardless.

Also, I would probably be a bit bolder in asking recruiters whether they can put me in touch with lawyers from specific practice areas. The meetings I did have were valuable in helping me understand the people, culture and types of work in different firms and practice areas.

What was the highlight of your clerkship? Apart from the social activities with other clerks, my favourite experience was a matter I worked on in the Intellectual Property Disputes team. The other side was alleged copyright infringement and I conducted research on our client’s culpability. The following week I sat in on the settlement negotiation, where we met with the other side and their lawyers to try and come to an agreement. This was a high stakes matter, with potentially millions of dollars on the line if it proceeded to litigation. I felt SO much adrenaline as we were waiting for the other side to get back to us about accepting our offers, and likewise, it was really exciting to see our solicitor and partner talk with our client about whether or not to accept the other side’s offers.

How did you develop your commercial acumen and research firms? Conveying commercial acumen was something that I was initially nervous about, as there were not many ‘commercial law’ subjects within my degree and I had never worked in a commercial law firm. However, I had developed my commercial awareness in other ways: • furthering my passion for Intellectual Property law by studying an IP unit at Harvard University over the holidays; • working as a consultant in the Macquarie

University chapter of 180 Degrees Consulting; • achieving good results in subjects like Property

Law and Equity and Trusts; • developing my ability to empathise and understand the needs of clients through my job at Legal Aid

NSW; and • participating in a MULS sub-committee, as you need to consider budgeting, community participation, relations with industry partners and sponsors.

When researching firms, a good place to start is looking at specific practice areas and partner profiles on the firm’s website. From there, you can find matters the firm has worked on which you might want to discuss in your applications. The Australian Financial Review is also helpful in this regard. However, I feel the most useful ‘research’ I conducted was talking directly to lawyers working in the Herbert Smith Freehills teams that interested me.

DANIELLE LE LARGE

Herbert Smith Freehills

Why did you choose your firm? I chose Herbert Smith Freehills because I could envision myself as a future Herbert Smith Freehills lawyer. I ultimately chose Herbert Smith Freehills because of my interactions with the people. Rachel Kok and James Keane, the Graduate Recruitment team, went above and beyond to organise information sessions and link me with lawyers working in areas that interested me. For example, they scheduled a 1-on-1 meeting for me with a lawyer in Intellectual Property Disputes, who talked in-depth with me about the cases she had worked on and what she loved about Herbert Smith Freehills. Every partner, lawyer, graduate and clerk that I met was empathetic, understanding and generous with their time. These people were highly accomplished and fiercely intelligent, yet humble and down-to-earth. I was able to laugh and joke with every person I interacted with, and saw them as people who I would happily spend late nights with working on complex cross-jurisdictional matters.

I also felt Herbert Smith Freehills delivered, by far, the best application and interview experience. The questions asked in the written application were reasonable and relevant. There were no stressful psychometric tests that judged your spatial, mathematical or linguistic abilities which are used by some other firms (unnecessarily, in my opinion). I was paired with a graduate buddy who was absolutely lovely, and they met with me before and after interviews to ensure I was ok. I would bounce potential interview questions off them to get feedback, and they would give me tips about the partner’s personalities and specific cases I could mention to help me feel confident.

Both my interviews with partners were laid back, filled with laughter and casual conversation. I arrived ready to deliver ‘STAR’ (Situation, Task, Action, Result) answers, but that wasn’t really what they wanted. The partners just wanted to see who I was, and whether I would fit in the team. One partner asked me ‘Looking at your application I can see you’ve been on quite a journey. Tell me about your story’ and I just talked honestly about things I had struggled with and overcome in my life.

ALEX MOORE

K&L Gates

If you could re-do your clerkship experience, from applications to the clerkship itself, what would you do differently? I was very happy with my clerkship experience and how I approached the application process. For that reason I wouldn’t have done anything differently. The key for me was that I prepared really well for the process and so I would emphasise the importance of this. Preparing thoroughly and early reduced the amount of stress I experienced, enhanced the quality of my application and assisted me in crystallising my motivations for applying for a clerkship. My preparation allowed me to present the best version of myself and to get what I wanted out of the process.

Why did you choose your firm? I chose K&L Gates for several reasons. I liked the fact that K&L Gates is among market leaders in multiple commercial law practice areas and services clients across an extensive global network. I felt that it could give me high quality exposure to all kinds of commercial law, with both domestic and internationally focused work. The firm also has a strong commitment to innovation which is enticing as I have an interest in entrepreneurship and believe that innovation drives success in today’s world.

The other main reason is that all the people I met from K&L Gates were very friendly, down to earth and relatable people. This was particularly important to me as it meant that I could see myself fitting in well with the firm culture and working well alongside the people there.

How did you balance the application process with other commitments, such as studies, work/extracurriculars? I identified well in advance that the clerkship application process was going to create more deadlines and commitments on top of my ordinary busy schedule. In order to prepare for this, I recorded my whole life on a simple excel spreadsheet which acted as my calendar of deadlines and commitments. By recording clerkship application dates, university assessments, sporting commitments, social and other events on here, I was able to easily see how many commitments I had for any given period. Having all aspects of my life in one central location, rather than across multiple planners, allowed me to manage my time more effectively. This gave me peace of mind and allowed me to plan in advance.

What was the highlight of your clerkship? There were so many fantastic parts of my clerkship that it's difficult to choose one. My clerkship was invaluable in that I was able to gain practical experience and make real and genuine contributions whilst learning on the job. For instance, I attended court and barristers’ chambers, sat in on strategy sessions, phone calls and client meetings, prepared legal research, assisted with the completion of a transaction, reviewed agreements and conducted a range of other tasks. In this way, I got both breadth and depth of experience which made my clerkship a very rich source of insight and development. Some of the other K&L Gates initiatives went above and beyond in trying to invest in the clerk experience. In particular, we participated in a Hackathon where the clerks devised innovative business solutions designed to tackle particular challenges at the firm. This day long exercise was a valuable opportunity to understand the firm better, meet new people and present to a panel of people at the firm.

How did you develop your commercial acumen and research firms? I developed commercial acumen by totalling a variety of exposures and learnings. At university, I chose a broad range of commercial law electives and studied both entrepreneurship and accounting. Outside of university, I read Lawyers Weekly, the business and law sections of major newspapers and kept up to date with news and current affairs.

I also find that talking to other people about commercial topics in the context of their profession is a valuable source of informal commercial education as it exposes you to new ideas and perspectives. For instance, if you have friends or family working in other areas of the economy, talking to them and understanding what their role actually entails and unpacking some of the challenges etc gives you an appreciation for those ideas.

I also think that it's best to total a variety of experiences and exposures in researching firms. In addition to researching firms through their website, the news and their social media presences, I attended the MULS clerkship fair, various individual firm presentations via zoom and spoke to family, friends and professional contacts. By aggregating multiple sources and perspectives I feel that I developed a much richer picture of law firms than I otherwise may have.

How did you develop your commercial acumen and research firms? I found the best way to research firms was to talk to people that were either working or had completed clerkships in the past to gauge their impressions and experiences with respective companies. It is also important to read about the firms, their achievements and their specialisations to see where you might enjoy working.

In terms of commercial acumen, I found that my work experience was the most useful to me in developing this awareness. But also reading about broader commercial issues helps to see legal problems in a broader sense and not tunnel them into a purely legal context.

How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process? There will always be a level of nerves and stress that comes with completing the clerkship process, regardless of the outcome. However, it is important to keep in mind that as cliché as it sounds, this is not the be all and end all of your legal career. There are so many pathways into commercial law. It was also crucial for me to continue doing all the things I was doing before clerkships that helped me de-stress and talking to friends and family about the process.

NINA PRICA

Maddocks

If you could re-do your clerkship experience, from applications to the clerkship itself, what would you do differently? One thing that I would change is making sure to only apply to firms that I was genuinely passionate about and that I could imagine myself working in. I spent a lot of time on applications for firms that I know I would not have enjoyed clerking in and this is something that I would not do again. At the beginning of the clerkship, I felt an odd pressure to apply to as many firms as possible, but it is just as important for you to figure out which firm is right for you.

Why did you choose your firm? What stood out to me during the interview process and my previous experiences with the firm was the down to earth nature of the people there. Everyone that I spoke with was approachable and had hobbies and interests outside of the law, which I find important. I also really liked that Maddocks wasn’t a large top tier firm. They were very in touch with all of the applicants and I felt like it was a firm that truly cared about their people. I knew that it was a great place for my legal skills to develop because of the exposure I would get to senior lawyers and interesting work.

How did you balance the application process with other commitments, such as studies, work/ extra-curriculars? I think preparation is key with the clerkship process. I made sure I was clear with the timeline for applications opening and becoming due, and then I worked around this. There was quite a lot that I could do before applications opened in terms of firm research, preparing my CV and pulling together experiences for cover letters so I made sure I had all this information ready to go prior to applications opening.

How did you prepare for interviews? The first step for me was knowing my CV and cover letters for the respective firms thoroughly, as well as any additional questions that I had answered. I would then prepare some dot points of my key achievements and skills from each experience and practice talking about them in a succinct and sharp way. I also prepared for some typical behavioural questions that I was expecting to be asked. I did find though that for most of my interviews, the tone was very conversational, and the interviewers were most interested in talking through my various experiences.

ELINOR BOWMAN

Gilbert + Tobin

Why did you choose your firm? For me, G+T stood out because of the people that I met throughout the clerkship process. I felt as if the people interviewing me genuinely wanted to know more about me and it was more of a conversation rather than the typical interview structure. I also found the people I met had similar values to myself. This, coupled with its focus on innovation and its reputation as a leading corporate and M&A firm, made the decision easy for me.

How did you balance the application process with other commitments, such as studies, work/ extra-curriculars? There are many different steps in the application process. From the actual application itself to the psychometric tests, to the multiple rounds of interviews, it can be a lot.

I found being organised and starting early helped me fit this all into my schedule. I made sure that I had a word document that detailed what I talked about in interviews so I could refresh my memory, I also kept track of my progress for each firm so that I knew what was coming up and what was due.

Most importantly, make time to de-stress and relax. It can be a stressful time and doing things that help you unwind will ensure that you put your best foot forward at your next interview or event.

What was the highlight of your clerkship? At G+T we had a legal services innovation project and a pro bono project that we did alongside our rotations which were both highlights for me.

For our innovation project, we developed apps to solve common problems that lawyers face within our practice groups. My team built an app that simplified the company incorporation process for the Corporate Advisory group. In our pro bono project, my team produced a report on indigenous self-governance to be used by the pro bono team when advising clients. Both projects were a great way to diversify our skills and an opportunity to learn more about the different initiatives at G+T. How did you prepare for interviews? The first step in preparing for interviews is knowing your interviewer. Giving them a quick google, looking them up on LinkedIn and finding out any recent transactions they worked on is a must.

I also prepared some answers to possible questions based on my resumé and cover letter. I tried to make these as general as possible to ensure that I could adapt the responses to the different questions I would be asked in the actual interview.

From there, I found getting a friend to practice with me was useful. I found that there were more situational questions than technical legal ones, so you can practice with anyone.

How did you develop your commercial acumen and research firms? Resources such as the Australian Financial Review and Lawyers Weekly helped me to develop commerciality. Firms often list the transactions that they have done in the past on their website or LinkedIn. This helped me to see what kind of work the different firms did and learn more about what kind of clients they have. I also found sites such as Legal 500 and Chambers helped me to understand how each firm compared to others within the areas I was interested in. Talking to people from different firms also helped me to learn more and get insights that you can’t get by just reading about firms.

Did you attend cocktail events? If so, how did you approach them? Unfortunately, last year we were unable to attend any in-person cocktail events. However, we did have a cocktail event over zoom. I found that the evening is more of an opportunity for you to get to know the firm and make sure that it is the right fit for you. Make sure to have some questions up your sleeve to ask previous clerks, graduates or solicitors to help you figure this out. This is one of your last chances to talk to lawyers or representatives from the firm so just be yourself and try not to stress too much!

How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process? It can be stressful waiting to hear back from firms. No matter how good your application is, not everyone is going to offer you a clerkship. I found that keeping busy and spending time with friends helped me to de-stress and took my mind off it. It’s also helpful to keep in mind that firms need to be a good fit for you as much as you want to be a good fit for them.

Why pursue a career in commercial law? On a day-to-day basis, commercial lawyers are engaged in addressing questions of law that span industries, transcend borders, and concern fundamental areas of business. This multi-jurisdictional complex nature of commercial law (juxtaposing law and business) can be an intellectually stimulating as well as a monetarily rewarding career path. I was able to ascertain that I am drawn to commercial law through my interest in commercial law units during my university studies, my practical experience gained through working in commercial law firms, and my personal interactions with commercial lawyers. To this end, a clerkship can be an excellent opportunity to understand where one’s interests lie.

Did you attend cocktail events? If so, how did you approach them? Unfortunately, 2020 was the year of virtual events and interviews, which were considerably different from the typical cocktail events. However, regardless of the format, I would encourage asking questions about the firm and the kind of work its lawyers do. If you demonstrate genuine interest, people pick up on it.

How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process? To manage nerves for the interview stage, I did practice interviews with friends, family, as well as with the University’s Career and Employment Service. Other than that, I continued doing things that I normally did to de-stress. I found that exercising on the morning of the interview day really helped me manage my nerves.

VRINDHA JAIN

King & Wood Mallesons

If you could re-do your clerkship experience, from applications to the clerkship itself, what would you do differently? A piece of advice that I wish I had followed from the start is that it is best to run your own race. By this I mean, do not compare yourself to your peers and do not rule yourself out for a certain firm because you do not have a certain WAM, as many extracurriculars, or work experience under your belt. I know it is easier said than done, but stay away from forums and refrain from engaging in detailed discussions with your friends about how your interviews went. One tends to either feel overconfident or disheartened, neither of which are good in the long run for staying in the right mindset. Ultimately, you know your strengths and weaknesses better than anyone else, and that is what makes you unique. So, it is best to focus on yourself and be confident about your achievements and failures. No one expects you to be perfect, just have the willingness to learn and take on challenges!

How did you balance the application process with other commitments, such as studies, work/ extracurriculars? There is no easy answer to this question because it differs from person to person, but try and keep your workload manageable – whether that means taking up less units for the semester, or taking time off from your job, or dropping out of extracurricular commitments. Try and remember that not only is the application process time consuming, but so are the psychometric tests and interviews, and the preparation itself for the interviews.

How did you develop your commercial acumen and research firms? For starters, I set up google alerts and followed the firms I was applying to on LinkedIn. This helped me gain a better insight regarding the kind of transactions and matters the firm was engaged in. I would also advise reading the AFR regularly regarding developments in commercial law. Particularly, try and align the articles you read to the practice areas that interest you.

WILL CHAFFEY

Corrs Chambers Westgarth

How did you tailor your CV and cover letter to each firm that you applied for? It’s really important to research the firm you’re applying for and understand what makes them different from all the others. In tailoring my CV, I utilised what I had lewarnt about Corrs from the clerkship fair and the Corrs x Macquarie University clerkship presentation and related this to the practice groups I wanted to work in. These events offered a great insight into what working at Corrs would be like, the strengths of each practice group and, importantly, what the firm’s culture was like. This allowed me to highlight my experience in a way that was relatable to the work that is done by the firm.

Why did you choose your firm?

I chose Corrs because of the people I met through the clerkship process and the vision of the firm. Everyone is passionate about their work and genuinely interested in the development of junior lawyers. Throughout the clerkship recruitment process, Corrs paired each applicant with a buddy which I found incredibly helpful.

In the various Zoom coffees that were hosted throughout the application process, Corrs lawyers were supportive and deeply passionate about the work they were doing. The culture of the firm was a big influence for me – I was drawn to working with lawyers who are friendly, down to earth and driven to produce market-leading legal solutions.

I was also drawn to Corrs’ vision to be the leading independent Australian law firm. Corrs advises on significant global transaction and litigious work, while at the same time providing opportunities for lawyers to work on pro bono matters including working at the Homeless Persons Legal Clinic in Newtown and Bondi. The commitment and desire from lawyers of all ranks to do the best work, form genuine relationships with clients and give back to the community was apparent and embodied a culture I wanted to work in.

How did you balance the application process with other commitments, such as studies, work/ extracurriculars? It helped me to be organised. There’s a one month window where applications are open, so there is plenty of time to get your application in. I would advise you to start thinking about which firms you want to apply for and why as early as possible, and make sure your CV is up to date. That way you will be prepared to start applying when applications open. Being prepared and having done my research beforehand made the application process so much easier. How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process? I remembered the interview process is just a conversation! Partners and HR are genuinely interested in who you are, what you like doing and what your interests in law (and out of law) are. It is also an opportunity for you to learn more about the firm and get a greater insight into whether the culture suits what you’re looking for. I used my buddy to learn about their application experience, which gave me peace of mind and helped me to prepare accordingly. Another tip is to do the normal things you do to relax. Whether it’s a walk in the morning, watching Netflix or reading your book – I made sure I had time to relax and not stress about the applications.

What was the highlight of your clerkship? My highlight was attending a defamation e-hearing. Watching barristers argue the case and seeing them rely on the research I had assisted with the previous day was really rewarding. The trial gave me the opportunity to get an insight into legal strategy and see how my work formed part of the groundwork that goes on for a successful hearing. It was great to be in such a collaborative environment where clerks like me were working closely across all levels of the firm from law graduates to partners and really cemented the relationships I had formed in my litigation rotation.

How did you prepare for interviews? I knew my CV back to front and could comfortably talk about all my experience. I remembered that I had got this far and that I had skills and experience to offer to the firm. The clerkship interview with Corrs is very conversational. Interviewers are interested in getting to know you – your interests and experiences. I talked about my PACE placement in Fiji, my exchange to Canada, my interest in financial services law, what I enjoyed, what I didn’t like and what I wanted to do in the future. The best practice for this is giving your CV to your parents, a friend or a mentor and having them ask you questions. You’ll quickly realise you forgot what you did in a job two years ago and be able to prepare accordingly. Listen to their feedback and go into the interview confident knowing you have prepared.

How did you tailor your CV and cover letter to each firm that you applied for? I used the same CV for all my applications. That being said, I edited my CV a lot before submitting the first application. Try to get someone else’s opinion (friends or family for example) on your CV, and embrace the iterative editing process. For my cover letters, I used the same thematic structure but tailored the content to each firm. I did my research and used information that resonated with me personally. Remember, you don’t get a big word count, so make sure every sentence is purposeful. Be super specific and provide examples and links to everything. Your cover letter is like a pitch - keep it punchy and compelling.

How did you prepare for interviews? I made sure that I was across everything in my cover letter, CV, and academic transcript. I decided on which details I wanted to share about myself, and the substantive reasons for why each firm appealed to me. I drafted a document setting out the key points I wanted to hit, and memorised them accordingly. However, I didn’t go into the interview with a memorised script. It’s really important to speak naturally on the day. I also practised with two friends and took on their constructive feedback. I researched my interviewers and prepared some questions. It sounds obvious, but ask questions that you actually want to know the answer to. Interviewers appreciate questions that aren’t overly generic or timid.

How did you balance the application process with other commitments, such as studies, work/ extra-curriculars? I diarised my commitments and had a big to-do list on my wall. I made sure that I understood the expectations, deadlines, and priorities of all commitments, and triaged appropriately. I also tried to be strict with myself in terms of how much time I spent on each application.

NINA STAMMBACH

Norton Rose Fulbright

Why did you choose your firm? I chose Norton Rose Fulbright (‘NRF’) for three reasons. Firstly, I admired the global strength and reputation of NRF. The firm’s international offering, in and of itself, attracts a certain repertoire of clientele. I want a career that transcends borders, and NRF provides unmatched opportunities and resources to do so. Secondly, I appreciated NRF’s heavy investment in Corporate Social Responsibility. I knew I’d have the benefit of working in commercial law, while still satisfying my passion for social justice and other important causes. Thirdly, NRF stood out from the rest in terms of Diversity and Inclusion (‘D&I’). Their D&I strategies reflect a genuine culture of respect for the individual. It sounds cliche but at the end of the day, NRF felt like the right ‘fit’ for me.

Why pursue a career in commercial law? The work and the people! You get to be intellectually curious and work on cutting edge matters across key industry sectors. Blue chip clients want to be on the right side of history, and in commercial law, you can improve their response to the changing shape of the economy. In terms of the people, you have the real privilege of being surrounded by brilliant individuals and leaders.

How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process? I found the entire application process quite stressful, so I empathise with anyone who finds it daunting. It felt like a bit of a marathon, so I tried to pace myself and keep perspective. Music helped me get into the zone for writing, and running helped me decompress and clear my head. When I was nervous for interviews, I reminded myself that there’s nothing endearing about looking like a deer in the headlights. I tried to zip it all up and fake it til I made it. It’s true that confidence (or at least the appearance of it) is a real tool in your arsenal. Throughout the process, I was a realistic optimist. From the start, I knew it was a highly saturated market and rejection was to be expected. So, when I received rejections, I didn’t let it discourage me or gnaw away at my sense of professional worth.

JOHN EDMUNDS

Gilbert + Tobin

If you could re-do your clerkship experience, from applications to the clerkship itself, what would you do differently? Start applications earlier! Do not underestimate the amount of time you will want to, and will, spend on each application. Do plenty of research about each firm you are applying for, and in particular, what makes them stand out in the market. Be prepared to answer the question: ‘why do you want to work here?’ Leading up to and during the clerkship: relax! You have earned your spot in the firm, so try to let go of any imposter syndrome. I can only speak to my experience at G+T, but the first week of the clerkship was jampacked with inductions, training and social events. Everyone will go out of their way to make you feel welcome and truly a part of the team.

How did you tailor your CV and cover letter to each firm that you applied for?

Look for what that firm advertises as what makes them different. What are they proud of? What kind of firm are they trying to be? Recognition of these points are, I think, what stands out to interviewers. In your application, sell the story of why you belong in that firm, why you are the right fit for their culture and business, and show that you have a genuine interest in their story and are not ‘just another applicant’.

How did you balance the application process with other commitments, such as studies, work/ extracurriculars?

I did most of the work on my applications during the mid-year uni break. As I mentioned, do not underestimate how long you will spend on each one. I use the word ‘balance’ loosely because I was practically locked away for a few weeks! It can (and likely will) be a really challenging period. Make sure you’re taking ample time to step back and take breaks, it will likely have a positive impact on the quality of your application.

What was the highlight of your clerkship?

My entire clerkship at G+T was honestly fantastic – there wasn’t a single low moment. The highlight, if I had to pick one, would be the people I worked with. I was surrounded by people who were genuinely excited to have me in the team. They want to ensure you have an amazing experience and endlessly teach you, challenge you, and show you what it’s like to be a commercial lawyer. I was also lucky to be part of a wonderful cohort of fellow clerks and there were countless team dinners, drinks, sport competitions and activities (think sip-and-paint). Why did you choose your firm? If you’re fortunate enough to receive multiple offers, it can be a difficult decision to pick the one that’s right for you. Gilbert + Tobin really stood out for me, with criteria I hereby coin the three Cs:

Culture: G+T is Australia’s youngest top-tier firm, and it shows. G+T takes every idea you have about stuffy old law firms and throws them out the window. There is no sense of the traditional law firm hierarchy – you are part of one team and are a truly valued member, at every level.

Corporate citizenship: The firm is vehemently committed to outstanding corporate citizenship, which was a really big factor for me. At G+T you are given the opportunity to get involved with pro bono work at every stage of your career, even during your clerkship and as a paralegal.

Career: G+T is a relatively small firm for the calibre of work that we do. The firm boasts a low employee / partner ratio, which means there are opportunities to work alongside partners and clients from the get-go (even during your clerkship!). In some other top-tier firms, it is unheard of for a graduate lawyer to work directly with a partner. The leverage ratio means there are endless opportunities to excel and challenge yourself, with all the support and training to get you there.

How did you prepare for interviews?

I wrote out a long list of potential questions and talking points (in case of a conversation lull), read up on each firm; and did the classic LinkedIn, AFR, and publication searches on my interviewers. The one thing that I did not do that I definitely should have is re-read my application… as stupid as it sounds, it can be easy to forget some of those choice adjectives you used to sell yourself – have a story/anecdote to back everything up!

How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process?

The clerkship application process is incredibly daunting – at the time, it seems like your whole career is riding on the success of your application, and the thought of rejection (at least for myself) is horrifying. Try to remember that this isn’t the be-all and end-all and, if you aren’t fortunate enough to receive an offer, there are other avenues to a career in commercial law.

It can be so easy to doubt yourself and your application – remember how hard you have worked to get to where you are now, and put that in your application; let your personality shine through your CV and to your interviewers; and choose a firm which will support you, challenge you, and excite you.

How did you balance the application process with other commitments, such as studies, work/ extra-curriculars? While the process can be daunting, it is spread out. The applications, interviews and events are spread across a few months which allows you to balance all of your other commitments.

It is important to prioritise applications, but this doesn’t need to come at the expense of your other commitments. I also found the application process itself was the busiest part, and a large part of that was able to be done in the uni break.

What was the highlight of your clerkship?

The highlight of my clerkship was my clerk cohort. The clerkship is a very fun and social experience. You meet lots of like-minded individuals and get to know them really well.

Of course, the work and rotations are also fantastic. You get a taste of 2-3 different practice areas and meet some lovely (and brilliant) people.

How did you prepare for interviews?

I took interviews as a way to express to my interviewers why I wanted to work at the firm and why I would be a good fit. In order to prepare, I tried to predict what my interviewers would want to know about their applicants and prepare as many examples of my experiences that I could. Also, interviews are a great time for you to ask any questions you may have!

How did you manage stress/ nerves during the application process?

Stress and nerves are a natural part of the process. I found that doing my research, preparing and being myself was the best way to manage stress. It is always good to prepare and be confident in why you would be an asset to the firm you want to work at.

I would also recommend being organised and not leaving applications to the last minute.

KATHERINE BEER

MinterEllison

If you could re-do your clerkship experience, from applications to the clerkship itself, what would you do differently? I wouldn’t change anything about the clerkship experience itself. However, if I could re-do the applications process, I would start researching firms earlier. Each of the firms that offer clerkships are different and unique to one another, both in speciality and culture. It is really important to understand these differences at the start of the process to make sure you find the best firm for you.

How did you tailor your CV and cover letter to each firm that you applied for?

My CV was similar for all the firms I applied to but I found it really important for the cover letters to be unique.

I wrote a unique cover letter for each firm I applied to. I found that this was an easier way to truly explain why I wanted to work at a particular firm. A cover letter is the place where you can highlight why you want to work at that firm and why you think you would be a good fit. I would recommend writing unique cover letters rather than tailoring them and changing minor details.

Why did you choose your firm?

I chose MinterEllison because it is an industry leading firm. Their culture and expertise were what attracted me to the firm. Their values also align closely to my own.

MinterEllison were fantastic in making sure the clerkship process was clear and they outlined what they were looking for in their applicants well. Information sessions were also great in providing information about not just accomplishments of the firm, but the culture and what it is like to be part of the team.