TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[j3llyfish]

Having done it before, I agree
Any advice this time around though? I've heard they changed it up a bit?

I am not well positioned to advise as I got a PFO after test, sorry hahaha - I think read up on SJTs and techniques, my (bad) approach is to chance it and rush which is not working well for me, I actually got annoyed towards the end of it and clicked random answers very quickly to end it lmaooo so don't do that!

 

[Tintin06]

Gibson Dunn Open Day PFO. On the other hand, is anyone else going to the Paul Hastings Insight Day next week?

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

does anyone have any tips on the best way to approach this question for Fieldfisher's diversity access scheme, how should I structure my response:

Please provide us with more details of your achievements, scholarships, positions of responsibility, insight schemes, open days and virtual work experience opportunities, extra-curricular activities and everything else that interests you (2000 characters)

Hiya @SamaraJ

I think it’s worth approaching it as a “catch-all” question which gives you the opportunity to showcase all the brilliant aspects of your profile that might not fit neatly into standard motivational or competency questions on application forms. For me, I’ve always found that having a structured approach works best for this type of question, given how broad and open-ended the question can seem. An organised approach will make it much easier for the reader.

When I answered similar questions, I'd use the first paragraph to highlight any academic scholarships or achievements I’d received, as they’re often strong. From there, I moved on to talk about extracurricular roles or achievements, like my volunteer roles abroad, which showed a bit more of my personality and some of the unique things I've had the chance to get involved in. Finally, I’d wrap things up with a paragraph about my key hobbies and interests, like my love of improvised comedy, my attempts to learn French, and my extensive travelling/backpacking. Again, I think adding these little details help make your application feel more personal.

As always, this is just one way to approach the question, and you should definitely take an approach that feels authentic to you and which you think best showcases your profile. That said, whatever structure you go with, I’d recommend ensuring each paragraph focuses on a distinct area (whether that’s academic achievements, extracurriculars, or personal interests) and flows smoothly into the next.

I'm sure @Andrei Radu and @Amma Usman would also have much to say here! Good luck with your application. I’m sure you’ll smash it! And if you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

 

[AnAnonymousDuck]

does anyone have any tips for squire patton boggs? i've never seen so many questions, and i'm not sure how to avoid repetition. is it so bad to use the same experience if talking about a different aspect to it? i feel like i'm running out of evidence to back up my reasons, but there are like 4 questions which are all rather similar

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi guys, does anyone have any tips for AC nerves? I have my first one tomorrow

Hiya @nodustollens

First off, amazing news on getting to AC! The firm sees something in your application and profile, so let’s channel that energy and show them exactly what you’ve got! Without hopefully sounding too cliche, I also wanted to say that it’s totally normal to feel nervous before an AC. It shows you care about doing well!

I'd be interested to know what strategies @Andrei Radu and @Amma Usman had when they felt nervous, but when I’ve been in similar interview situations, I typically took the following steps:

1. Don’t overdo the preparation. I can't emphasis this enough - some candidates try really hard to memorise as much as they can about the firm. This can sometimes end up making answers to questions seem somewhat contrived or superficial. Just try to understand a reasonable amount about the firm's key practice areas, clients, and culture without having your answers sound forced or rehearsed. Additionally, try to reflect on yourself as much as the firm.
2. Remember, you're in control of your interview too! This was something I didn't always appreciate until I spoke with @Jaysen. Oftentimes, I went into interviews thinking that my interviewers would try to 'catch me off guard' or 'trip me up'. In those situations, I'd frequently jump into answering a tricky question, and didn't always ask for a minute or two to help me structure my answer. If you get a tricky question, just ask for a minute and then walk them through your thought process.
3. Do something to hype yourself up! Highly recommend listening to a song or playlist that makes you feel confident! I've always found that music is an amazing way to shift my mindset!
4. Why not you? A partner at Jones Day once reminded me that the people interviewing me weren’t born knowing this stuff! They were in your/my shoes once. Everyone gets nervous, even the partners you’ll meet. You don’t need to be perfect!

Again: They already like what they see on paper, and now you just need to bring that same energy in person! You’re prepared, you’re capable, and you’ve got this! Good luck!

 

[xxx]

If it says I have 5 working days from today to submit the VI, does that mean the last day to submit is monday? Since its only 4 working days till friday, then the weekend. Thank you

 

[hanz123]

Does anyone know the questions for DAC Beachcroft VI?

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

If it says I have 5 working days from today to submit the VI, does that mean the last day to submit is monday? Since its only 4 working days till friday, then the weekend. Thank you

Hiya @Reem2024

That sounds about right to me, but I'd recommend getting in touch with grad rec just to be on the safe side. Good luck with the VI!

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

How cooked would one be if they mistakenly wrote 2024 instead of 2023 as the date of a case for the application question

Hiya @johnnysins

I wouldn’t sweat it! A typo like that is an easy mistake to make, and as long as your overall application is strong and this is a one-off error, you still have a good chance of progressing.

To give you some perspective, I once submitted an application to a US firm with a concluding sentence that was very, very incomplete (like several words were missing) - and I still made it through to the next stage!

What matters most is the overall quality of your application. While you should use this as a reminder to proofread in the future, I wouldn't let it distract you now. Best of luck with the application!

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

How do you have after submitting the application for CMS to complete the WG?

Hiya @_microwaved

This might have changed now but, in a previous cycle, CMS gave us 5 days to complete the WG after receiving the invitation. Again, this might have changed, but 5 days tends to be the time frame that many firms give for completing the WG test. Hope it goes swimmingly! Good luck!

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

If it says I have 5 working days from today to submit the VI, does that mean the last day to submit is monday? Since its only 4 working days till friday, then the weekend. Thank you

Yes - you would have Monday if it is 5 working days.

 

[SarahB3]

Has anyone sat the Taylor Wessing online tes? Would appreciate any tips

I also wondered whether they consider the test results in conjunction with your written ap or if it is purely test results after the online application stage?

Hey can I ask how you found it and details of what you was tested on please?

 

[ashwright]

I wouldn’t get ahead of myself assuming I’d get a video interview. Just wait until you get an outcome and if successful follow the instructions. You don’t need anymore tips beyond what the firm gives you.

No worries - wasn't assuming, just curious.

 

[hmevey]

Hey guys, I am wanting some advice as I am not sure I am approaching this TC cycle correctly. Saw someone do a post like this and I would really appreciate the help. I have applied so far to a broad range of firms; Slaughters, CC, Ashurst, AG, Irwin Mitchell, HSF and I want to continue applying. I have done a few apps on deadline day and rushed the IM VI which may have ruined my chances. Already got PFOS from Slaughters, Ashurst and AG

Does anyone have any firm recommendations for my next few apps- I was planning on squeezing a CMS app out as the deadline is closing soon.

I am looking for firms that are international, I am interested in litigation, intellectual property and competition law at the moment but I am keen to explore all areas. I am also keen to go somewhere where I can do an international/client secondment.

I have a mid 2:1 from a RG uni, have a broad range of work experience i.e paid work, volunteering, positions of responsibilities and two MC first year open days. but no VC's previously. Currently on my 6th month working at a fairly large firm in conveyancing but I am keen to enter the commercial world. Is there anything I can do to tailor my approach. This is my first proper cycle but working full time, i am really strugglign to find motivation to keep going. Any help would be appreciated!

 

[plshireme]

can anyone give some advice on what they included on their CV for DLA? I have legal work experience from ages ago, is it worth mixing that in with actual jobs i've had?

 

[Aspiringlawyer_]

Does anyone know what happens after submitting the CMS application? Other firms I’ve applied for usually indicate that an online assessment will follow, but the automated reply from CMS hasn’t referenced that. Do they review your application first then send the Watson Glaser?

 

[xxrr.18]

for those waiting on white and case post AC, login to the application portal and look at the correspondence as it turns out i was rejected on the 20th november but did not get any emails about it. better to know than have false hope theyre still considering me lol

 

[axele]

Does Weil give out offers before the deadline? Ie still in time to apply for their vs?

 

[Eeeazyyy8]

Taylor Wessing Written Assessment Invite!!

hi, do you have any tips for the online assessment? How did you prepare? X

 

[desperateTCseeker1998]

for those waiting on white and case post AC, login to the application portal and look at the correspondence as it turns out i was rejected on the 20th november but did not get any emails about it. better to know than have false hope theyre still considering me lol

You have unlocked a new fear for me