I'm graduating this year from a not-so-well-known private law college. Most of my internships so far have been at the district court level, and I haven't interned at any corporate law firms.

Lately, I've been thinking more seriously about trying to get into the corporate side, especially after seeing discussions around how much people at top firms make. I know most of those folks come from top NLUs and have solid internship experience to back them up.

I'm aware that I don’t really have the kind of profile these firms usually look for, i have no corporate internships, no standout college brand, and no relevant skills.

So my question is — is there any realistic way for someone like me to make a shift toward corporate law? And if I don’t have those internships, what can I do now to learn the relevant skills to coverup what I lack.

Yes. You still have it in you. First and foremost, create a strong foundation on Companies Act, Contract Act, Transfer of Property Act, Specific Relief Act, Sales and Goods Act, FEMA (if possible). Various kinds of agreements dealt in business transactions (You do not have to go through the nitty gritty of those, just basic understanding as to what they do and how they do is sufficient enough).

This is going to take you some time.

Try applying for internships at boutique firms. Do not apply at top tier law firms - it would be a waste move, you won't stand a chance to get that micro second attention of the HRs.

Boutique firms would be happy to test your knowledge. Be ready with your basics. You would get through with ease. Gain as much hands-on experience as possible and if possible get a call-back internship from them. If they like your work, ask them at the end if a job prospect exists. Do this with multiple firms. Somewhere or another you might get through.

Do not think that the pay would be as good as you are expecting to be. Those pay are only limited to top tier firms. For now baby steps. Pay won't be that good and long working hours can be expected. Gain experience for a year or so and then you can easily make a move to the top law firms.

The process I just said won't be easy at all. So all the best.

Anyone saying NO here are kids themselves in their initial years of college life. Don't take them seriously. Life will give you opportunities. It's not unforgiving all the time.

Cheers!