Kuljit Kaur Singh took part in BIUCAC 2024 – THE competition for those interested in flexing their commercial awareness muscles and being in with a chance of securing some great prizes. If this is something that appeals to you for this coming year, then note the event on 6th February 2025 with Denis Viskovich. For now, let’s hear how Kuljit experience went…

Participating in the BIUCAC 2024 finals was one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic and professional journey. As a second-year competitor, the competition has offered me not only the opportunity to grow but also the platform to showcase my passion for commercial law. Representing City, University of London, and The City Law School, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with some of the brightest minds and leaders in the legal sector.

Last year, BIUCAC introduced me to the competitive yet collaborative world of commercial law. Winning the Eversheds Sutherland prize and working with my mentor was a transformative experience that solidified my interest in this field. This year, the journey reached new heights. Placing 12th out of nearly 2,500 participants was a tremendous honour, but the true highlight was receiving a prize from Sidley Austin LLP. This recognition has opened new doors, including an upcoming interview for a vacation scheme, a testament to the career-enhancing opportunities BIUCAC provides.

The competition is a rigorous test of a student’s commercial awareness, problem-solving skills, and adaptability. From macroeconomic analysis to client pitching and negotiation exercises, BIUCAC mirrors real-world challenges faced by commercial lawyers. These tasks not only test theoretical knowledge but also push participants to think critically about how global developments impact the legal and business landscapes. For students aspiring to enter this sector, such preparation is invaluable. Commercial awareness isn’t just a buzzword, it’s the foundation for a successful career in law.

Beyond the intellectual challenges, the competition’s structure promotes networking and collaboration. This year, I was fortunate to work alongside my talented teammates, Jurgen Forster and Alexander Makesoski. Their dedication and insight elevated our performance and made the experience truly unforgettable. Together, we navigated complex scenarios, refined our strategies, and supported one another throughout the process. The camaraderie and mentorship I’ve experienced from peers, mentors, and lecturers alike are what make BIUCAC stand out.

The prizes offered at BIUCAC are unparalleled, ranging from vacation schemes at leading firms to mentorship opportunities and invaluable industry connections. These rewards reflect the competition’s commitment to bridging the gap between academic study and professional practice. Winning the Sidley Austin prize is more than just an accolade, it’s a stepping stone toward my aspirations in commercial law and a testament to the skills I’ve gained through this competition.

Reflecting on this journey, I am immensely grateful to the organisers, my mentors, lecturers, and peers who have supported me along the way. A special thank you to Denis Viskovich for his guidance and support, as well as the main sponsors White & Case LLP, Fieldfisher, Ashurst, and Travers Smith for making this incredible experience possible. BIUCAC has not only deepened my understanding of commercial law but also reinforced my determination to excel in this dynamic and challenging field. To any law student considering a career in commercial law, I cannot recommend BIUCAC enough. It’s more than a competition, it’s a launchpad for your career and an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the realities of the legal world.

As I prepare for my upcoming interview, I carry with me the lessons, experiences, and connections gained from BIUCAC 2024. This competition has been a defining chapter in my journey, and I look forward to what lies ahead.

Kuljit is currently undertaking her LLM in International Commercial Law and has completed the LLB at City as well. She is looking to qualify as a commercial solicitor in London, specifically in the fields of corporate finance, project finance, and private equity. In her free time she likes to play basketball for the university!