In this monthly session, Dylan Anton will break down how to build commercial awareness in a way that is actually useful for law firm applications. He will explain how to think about commercial stories, what firms are really looking for when they assess commercial awareness, and how to use that understanding more effectively in written answers and interviews. The session will also include a discussion of the latest editions of The Big Picture, with the opportunity to engage with the stories and explore how they could be used in practice.

Curious what it actually takes to secure a training contract directly from someone who has assessed thousands of candidates? Join us for an honest conversation with Mark, a former legal graduate recruiter who interviewed over 10,000 candidates throughout his career, including at Mayer Brown, and brings first-hand insight into how training contract decisions are really made. This session offers a behind-the-scenes look at how decisions are really made and what separates candidates who get offers from those who don’t. We’ll cover what firms are really looking for, how recruiters assess candidates beyond academics, and what strong applicants do differently at each stage of the process. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask your questions and get direct insight from someone who has sat on the other side of the process.

Join Lewis Silkin for a four-day work experience programme offering insight into commercial law and professional services. The programme includes skills workshops on applications, CVs, networking and interviews, followed by time shadowing team members in areas of interest. With a focus on transferable skills, the scheme is suitable for students interested in both legal and business services careers.

Interviews aren’t just about what you say. They’re about how you show up. Join us for a focused session on how to perform at your best in in-person interviews, without letting pressure affect your performance. Led by Mark, a former legal graduate recruiter who interviewed over 10,000 candidates throughout his career, including at Mayer Brown, this session draws on first-hand insight into what actually makes candidates stand out. We’ll walk through what makes a difference on the day, from the moment you enter the room to how you leave a lasting impression. We’ll cover managing nerves, body language, handling difficult questions, structuring your answers clearly, and how to stand out towards the end through strong questions and follow-up.

Recruiters read thousands of applications. Standing out isn’t about saying more but aout showing clear thinking through your story. Candidates hear this all the time, but what does it actually look like in practice? Join us for a focused session on how to build a clear, compelling narrative across your application, led by Shreeja Rao, Spark Intern at Clifford Chance. Drawing on her own journey as an international student from a non-traditional background, Shreeja will show how to turn perceived weaknesses into strengths, and present your experiences in a way that feels connected and intentional. You’ll see a real example of a successful application and learn how to link your experiences, achievements, and motivations into a coherent story that stands out to recruiters.