Thinking about Sidley? Trainee Solicitor Harsimran Kundi, shares insider tips you won’t find on the website.
What attracted you to Sidley Austin and the Training Contract?
The reputation and the quality of work initially attracted me to Sidley, and I became more settled in my choice during my vacation scheme when I realised that I found the work interesting and intellectually stimulating. I was also intrigued by the firm’s culture, and I felt that during my vacation scheme, I had a good balance of independent work and support.
What are your top tips for someone applying to Sidley Austin, specifically for someone from a non-law background?
I think many non-lawyers already have skills that apply readily to law via their degree. It’s important to demonstrate your commitment to a career in law through your actions — including attending university law events, law fairs, or even becoming more commercially-minded. This gives a non-lawyer the opportunity to actively participate and provide a clear, informed reason why they want to practice law and therefore why they should be given a training contract.
What do you wish you had known on your first day of Vacation Scheme?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! The lawyers at Sidley know that a vacation scheme is daunting and that the work is complex — so if you don’t understand a task, seek clarification.