ELYSSE LLOYD – ASHURST There are many firms that offer summer clerkships, how did you determine which firm was the right one for you? There are so many firms that offer summer clerkships, that when you apply it can feel as if all of the firms blend in together! The best thing you can do is to get to know as many people that work at the firms as you can. I talked to friends who had previously undertaken a clerkship to see what it was their experience was like at the firm they chose, and I also attended as many events as possible. In the end, I trusted my instincts in deciding where to go, and it was the right choice for me! How did you find the interview process? Do you have any tips for students applying this year? I found the process very intense! This was however partly due to the fact that I took on too much that semester at university as well as applying for clerkships. Try not to overload yourself! My advice is to be prepared for interviews, and know your audience when answering questions. The interviews are often with two lawyers, or one lawyer and one HR representative. This can change the dynamic of the interview, but do not let it throw you, just be calm and confident. Be aware when they are asking behavioral questions and be prepared to answer them. Remember that they are looking for people with a positive attitude and that will fit in at the firm. Show what you can offer to the firm, and that you are a hard worker. Were you asked anything unexpected? The interviewers have seen a number of applications, and sometimes something in your application will stick out to them, like a weirdly named Arts subject you did in second year! Be prepared to talk about it, and show that you are versatile as opposed to being put off by it. What did you find to be the most challenging aspect of your clerkship experience? I learnt so much during my clerkship that sometimes it felt like information overload! I managed this by always having a pen and paper with me to take notes that I could refer back to. Working in a big firm for the first time was also a little daunting. It was important that I had people I could talk to – like my buddies, fellow clerks, the graduates, and the support staff – to ask any silly questions or for general support! Did your clerkship experience help you make any decision/s about possible directions your career might take? Definitely! Not only did my clerkship give me great insight into working at a top-tier law firm, but I also gained some insight into working in-house. I was chosen for a weeklong client secondment to the employment and safety legal team at Railcorp. It was great to be able to compare the different working environments first hand! 28 Clerkship Guide 2013