As a fourth year B.B.A. LL.B. student with a specialization in Corporate Law, I understand that it is difficult to get good internships, especially with so much competition (healthy, of course) around. However, I strongly believe in the phrase ‘where there is a will there's a way’. Correct planning and guidance can be of immense help for all those seeking internships. I would like to suggest some steps that I followed that landed me internship letters from prestigious law firms and work under senior advocates.

Gain knowledge and Skills

The first rule is to follow the hierarchy prescribed by the Bar Council of India. This is vital because a corporate internship is of no use unless you have enough knowledge about the subject. Hence, the first and second year of the five-year course, the focus should be on understanding law and learning how the district/sessions courts, high courts, and the Supreme Court function. It is also the time when you should enhance your research skills – a must for a career in a good law firm. From the third year onwards, you can start looking for internships in your specific field of interest.


Networking is the Key

The second rule is networking. Being a law student, it is essential to develop a network of your own. This can be achieved by participating in seminars, sessions, and moot court competitions, where you can meet with the experts in the field who can help you avail good internships. Another major platform for networking is LinkedIn, where you can actively participate and build your connections. You can take  guidance from your seniors or professors who have good connections in the field. Though networking takes effort and might not always give you a positive response, it should not discourage you from contacting people who can help you broaden your horizon about the legal profession. It is just a matter of getting the right connections.

UPES, SCHOOL OF LAW, DEHRADUN

A Crisp and Impressive Résumé

The third rule is to have a vibrant and crisp Curriculum Vitae (CV). Ideally, do not cram random information about you so that your CV does not exceed more than two pages. It should highlight all your achievements that are relevant to the application. As per my experience, GPA or Grade Point Average does play a major role in making your CV stand apart, but it is not the only factor that law firms look for.

Follow the application process

The fourth and the last rule is concerning the application process. Always apply three or four months prior to the dates on which you are seeking an internship. If no response is received from the other end in two weeks or so, send polite follow-up emails and, if possible, stay connected with the HR to know the status of your application. Keep the possible options open by applying not just in single-tier firms, but also going for boutique law firms with specialized working.

When you finally get the internship, always give your best because that helps you in getting a call back and a Pre-Placement Offer (PPO) if you are fortunate enough. You should keep in mind that your work not only leaves behind an imprint of your personality, but of your academic institution as well. A good imprint can be helpful for the future students of the institution.

 By Nishu Chawat 
Fourth Year, B.A L.L.B
Specialization Corporate Law