Many law students invest in certificate courses on subjects such as contract drafting, due diligence, intellectual property, arbitration, and corporate law with the hope of strengthening their CVs and improving their internship prospects. At the same time, there are differing opinions on whether recruiters genuinely value these certifications or place greater emphasis on practical experience.
As a result, students often struggle to decide whether they should spend their time and money on certificate courses or focus on gaining practical exposure through internships and self-learning.
Based on your experience, which types of courses, if any, do you believe genuinely add value?
Dear Student,
Yes, certificate courses definitely help in several key aspects. They serve as an excellent medium to portray yourself as a proactive individual who is genuinely interested in a particular field and is actively looking to refine their skills. While these courses are not a surefire guarantee to land an internship, they can certainly act as a stepping stone. Recruiters will recognize that you possess a foundational understanding and a certain level of practical knowledge apart from your prior experience.
When choosing a course, you should always prioritize those that teach specific practical skills and add concrete value to your knowledge base, as both of these assets prove highly beneficial in the long run. I highly recommend taking specialized courses in areas such as drafting or any other specific field you wish to pursue. This targeted approach will significantly help in building a strong, professional profile.
(*The professional designation and organisation mentioned are provided solely for identification purposes. The views and opinions expressed are strictly personal and do not represent those of the organisation or employer.*)
