TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

[Amma Usman]

Any tips for how to improve on Amberjack just got my results for Reed Smith... excellent for verbal + numerical intellect but then 4 for grit, applied intellect and digital mindset. 6 for creative force.

Some past tips for SJTs - attached to this post.

 

[amrita6399]

Is K&L Gates DTC rolling, and also, it says that there is a verbal reasoning test, so does that need to be completed along with the application, or is it sent later by the Grad Rec team as the 2nd stage? A clarification on these points will be helpful. Thank you!

 

[Amma Usman]

Congratulations! Same background, hoping for the same soon.

Yep! I have seen many people with no immediate ties to the UK succeed in applications. Law firms value geographical diversity. Just be prepared to be asked the question of why law in the UK at an international firm, and not your home country. This question is often asked as law firms want to filter out candidates that are applying just on vibes but instead actually want to build a long-term career at these firms/ the country (considering the two-year TC is a development programme and an investment of a law firm into your professional development).

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey Team, I'm aware this is dependent on the firm, but at what stage in the recruitment process do academic/organisational referees get contacted?

Also, I was in a research project with a supervisor at University in a paid research internship, would my manager be suitable to put down as an academic referee? I worked closely with them and they will have more to comment on me than my actual lecturers.-It's still academic I guess (?) @Ram Sabaratnam @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman - Thanks!

Hey,

This depends on the firm - you’re right. For example, I know Jones Day contacts referees before the first stage interview (to the best of my knowledge).

Though for most firms usually this will be prior to any onboarding process/ not long before you start the role/ vocational courses (depending on the firm, yet again).

Considering the role was a university-related research project which seemingly spins into the realm of academics, I believe that would work as a referee. However, ask the firm when the time is right to be sure. I do know, however, that usually academic referees are past professors, or tutorial leaders, or dissertation mentors, personal tutors, etc. So it’s worth keeping the latter in mind too.

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey this is sort of unrelated (and congrats on the AC) but do you think it's still worth applying to HFW, or did anything indicate they've offered enough ACs to fill their intake? They're a dream firm for me but being employed distracted me from appreciating the fact that they're fully rolling. Thanks

I agree with @SamiyaJ - apply apply apply!

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey would love to hear about your experience with the video interview if you’re open to sharing. No pressure at all, but I’d really appreciate any insight or tips. Happy to connect or chat if that works for you

If you’re looking for general VI tips, this thread will help greatly - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....de-for-competency-interview-preparation.9380/

 

[Amma Usman]

Can someone advise on whether they managed to access the link for the practice tests and if so How?

Hey, which practice tests are these? Perhaps I’ll be able to help better once confirmed.

 

[Amma Usman]

Finally have a TC offer! Just wanted to tell everyone to keep their heads up! I persisted long and hard hours and it's all been worth it in the end! Thank you so much to all of the TCLA community and to the many friends that have privately messaged me and exchanged advice (you know who you are), I will endeavour my best to pass my knowledge

This makes me SO HAPPY! Yay - huge congrats!

 

[Amma Usman]

'Why x firm?'

I was drawn to the work of x firm's [DEPARTMENT] when I collaborated with [NAME] on [DEAL]. I was impressed with their collaborative spirit, knowledge and creative ways we reached the deadline to our respective clients' satisfaction. From my experience here, I can see x firm as an excellent environment for me to learn and grow as a lawyer

This is extremely informative and straight to the point! thank you @FM302989

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi all, do I need to finish the Macfarlanes test by midnight today or a week from today if I just received it? Thank you!!

What was the wording included in the email which was sent with the test?

In any case, I usually submit these tests a day earlier just to be safe. Also email GR to confirm - just to flag there may be some delays in them getting back to you as it is a busy time for firms given VS’ and all.

 

[Amma Usman]

For anyone that may be interested, this is an excellent and extremely detailed guide on the SQE by one of our members @average_jo123 - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/sqe-tell-all-all-questions-welcome.9641/

Thank you for sharing all your experiences and being such a positive force in the forums!

 

[lizliczs]

Anyone heard back from Browne Jacobson post TI? I was told we would hear back w/c 23rd

Have you heard yet ?

 

[Law_APP]

Anything from Fried Frank as yet about the final round? They said Friday (today)

 

[lawelmo]

Have you heard yet ?

Nothing

 

[SarahB3]

If you’re looking for general VI tips, this thread will help greatly - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....de-for-competency-interview-preparation.9380/

Thank you

 

[SamiyaJ]

Can someone (who also does well in WG tests) please treat me as a 3 year old child and explain in very plain English about their understanding of each section of WG and what I should look out for?

I’ve read so much on it and been practicing but I feel so stupid as things are still not clicking.

 

[SamiyaJ]

Hi Amma,

I’m more after commercial awareness/recent developments in the sector!

Hi @Amma Usman just bumping this up!

 

[Tintin06]

Can someone (who also does well in WG tests) please treat me as a 3 year old child and explain in very plain English about their understanding of each section of WG and what I should look out for?

I’ve read so much on it and been practicing but I feel so stupid as things are still not clicking.

I can’t but this guide does: https://www.how2become.com/critical-thinking-tests/.

 

[Tintin06]

How to delete our account here?

 

[pleasepleaseplease]

Is there a point applying to Stephenson Harwood DTC? Does anyone know how many trainees they recruit via that route and if it is rolling or non-rolling? Thanks