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Ebony McDermott, a current trainee solicitor at Shoosmiths, shares how showcasing your passions and values beyond academics can help you stand out and secure a training contract. Read on to discover why authenticity matters.
Published 15 January 2026
Applying for a Training Contract can feel like a long and daunting process. Between the written applications, assessment centres, and interviews, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of yourself.
One of the best ways to build confidence is to speak about something you know inside out - something that genuinely excites you.
I am very passionate about running and I light up when I have the opportunity to talk about it and share my experience of running the Manchester Marathon.
During my trainee interview, I spoke about this passion, and the interviewer could immediately see how enthusiastic I was. I wasn’t just answering questions - I was sharing a part of myself. I spoke clearly and with enthusiasm because I was talking about something I love. I was able to present my most authentic self and then demonstrate how I would apply the skills I used for this passion project to a career in law:
- dedication: Marathon training is a big commitment and requires months of training, which was a challenge both physically and mentally. I apply this same dedication and resilience to my Training Contract as I am always willing to stay longer to ensure the work is completed to the highest standard.
- time management: Training for a marathon meant planning my runs around a busy schedule. I had to be strategic in deciding which days I would run, how long each session would be, and how to balance rest and recovery. In my legal work, I apply the same principles. I plan ahead, prioritise tasks, and manage my time effectively to meet deadlines and deliver quality work.
- teamwork: While running is often a solo activity, I was running the marathon for Alzheimer’s Society, so I worked collaboratively with the charity through fundraising activities. That experience taught me how to communicate, coordinate, and contribute to a shared goal, which I use when working across the office.
These are just a few examples of how passion projects can translate into professional strengths. Your passion doesn’t have to be running - it could be reading, swimming, gaming, or anything else that brings joy to your life. The key is to reflect on the skills you have developed through that activity and consider how they align with the demands of a legal career.
Authenticity is one of your greatest assets. When you speak about something that genuinely excites you, it shows and interviewers notice. Interviewers can tell when you’re passionate about something, and that energy is contagious. It helps you stand out, not just as a candidate, but as a person. So, when preparing for your interview, think about what your passion project is. What do you love doing? What challenges have you overcome? And how can those experiences shape the kind of solicitor you aspire to be?
Explore more of our recent blogs for insights and inspiration. If you have questions, our FAQ page is a great place to start.
If you’re ready to apply, jump straight to applying for our current opportunities:
Still curious or need advice? We would love to hear from you – email us at joinus@shoosmiths.com and our team will be happy to help.