Hi
@Ram Sabaratnam!
I am currently frantically completing my 500-word statement for my CC application and am struggling. I was wondering if you might be able to provide some pointers/advice on what I have done so far? Any advice would be hugely appreciated!
Just for some context - I am a non-law grad (I did the GDL), so most of my extracurriculars are related to an earlier time in my life/academic ventures. What I particularly struggle with is the 'achievement I am most proud of'.
In no more than
500 words, please tell us about your
extra-curricular activities,
positions of responsibility and an achievement of importance which you are most proud of. How will these experiences help you excel as a
Clifford Chance lawyer?
A passionate linguist with a multicultural upbringing, I have always been deeply interested in languages, reflected in my choice to study Russian and Czech (primarily literature) at university. Fluent or proficient in six languages, I actively seek opportunities to apply my linguistic skills.
At Oxford, I co-founded Linguatute, a platform supporting language students and Oxbridge applicants. We created tailored study programmes and tutoring materials, combining my love for languages with entrepreneurial initiative. This venture also exposed me to business operations, intellectual property law, and employment contracts, providing practical insights into legal and organisational challenges relevant to a legal career.
My interest in language extends into the artistic realm. I co-founded the Percy Shelley Poetry Society, creating a space for people from various disciplines to write and critique poetry. Although the society did not continue after my graduation, I secured funding from my college to host poetry evenings, fostering a creative community. I also translated Czech poems for the Oxford Lieder Festival, balancing linguistic accuracy with artistic interpretation—an experience that enhanced my translation skills and creativity.
Currently, I am honing my translation abilities in a legal context, working on anti-dumping laws and Chinese steel exports to Russia. This has involved interpreting poorly written or ambiguous English, refining my ability to convey nuanced meaning in complex legal documents.
I am also a dedicated musician, performing in concerts and competitions from a young age. At 13, I performed on Welsh national television as a finalist in the Urdd National Eisteddfod and have placed in several major competitions. At 14, I gained a place at the highly competitive Royal College of Music Junior Department, supported by a generous bursary. This experience taught me discipline, focus, and the ability to perform under pressure—qualities that will serve me in my professional career.
My passion for music, combined with a belief in its accessibility for all children, led me to offer free music lessons to disadvantaged children during school. One of my students later attended the Wells School on the strength of her musical ability. At university, I continued this initiative by providing free piano accompaniment to soloists for exams and concerts, enabling them to focus on performance without the financial burden of hiring an accompanist.
My commitment to helping disadvantaged children extended into my legal studies. During my GDL, I volunteered to provide legal advice to parents of children facing permanent school exclusion. Despite my limited legal experience, I successfully assisted clients, often under tight deadlines. I quickly familiarised myself with new areas of law and legal procedures, explaining complex concepts in an accessible manner. I also honed my advocacy skills by representing clients at tribunals, refining my ability to present compelling arguments.
At university, I was elected undergraduate representative for Czech and Slovak. I advocated for students during the Covid-19 pandemic, successfully negotiating increased access to online resources and ensuring equal study room bookings for undergraduates and postgraduates. This role enhanced my negotiation and collaboration skills, highlighting my ability to balance competing interests and drive positive outcomes.
Unexpectedly, my proudest achievement stems from my first real job, where I was promoted to a managerial position within weeks, surpassing older staff. I was entrusted with financial responsibilities (which extended beyond my regular responsibilities) and earned the respect of my colleagues, reinforcing my leadership abilities and work ethic. This experience boosted my confidence and set the tone for my professional career.
