A&O Shearman Smart Applications Gold Certificate and Mock Interview

Over the course of June, I had the privilege of taking part in Causeway Education’s Smart Applications programme, run in collaboration with A&O Shearman, a leading global law firm. During this programme, I was invited to take part in several webinars relating to paths into a career in law as well as skills necessary for a career in law, such as problem-solving and commercial awareness. I greatly enjoyed this experience, as it allowed me to enhance my own skills and knowledge of the legal sector using help and expertise from experienced lawyers and volunteers with a deep understanding of law as a profession. Due to my participation, I received a gold certificate from Causeway Education congratulating my deep involvement and engagement with the programme.

As part of this programme, I was also invited to participate in a mock interview for a position at A&O Shearman with guidance from a Causeway Education volunteer. Despite initially having some nerves regarding the different types of questions which could be asked, I conducted my own ‘due diligence’ by researching A&O Shearman and their latest activities, such as becoming the lead legal advisor to Rangers for their takeover deal by Andrew Cavanagh. During the interview, I was able to overcome my nervousness by speaking clearly and slowly, as well as using real-life scenarios to explain my answers to more personal questions. Thanks to my preparation, I was able to have a truly interesting discussion with my interviewer, where we discussed A&O Shearman’s advancements as a firm as well as my own qualities and interests which align with the role. I am very grateful to have been given this opportunity as it allowed me to develop my soft skills as well as my commercial awareness surrounding both A&O Shearman and the legal sector in general.

Many thanks to Causeway Education and A&O Shearman for organising this wonderful programme!