Is 3 strengths to leverage and one opportunity for development ok as a DLA WG report?
Thanks!
Thanks!
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
- Start date
Thank you, this is really usefulHi!
I used to struggle with the same thing, and what helped me was starting with more detail before stripping it down. Instead of going straight in with bullet points, I'd first write out a brief plan of what I wanted to say - almost like a mini-script or structured notes. Once I was happy with the overall structure and content, I'd then reduce that into succinct bullet points of the main topics (e.g. "Intellectual Challenge", "Practice Area Expertise", etc.)
From there, I'd practice it: first using the full plan, then using only the bullet points, and eventually just trying to recall the general structure from memory. By the time you then record the actual answer, it's easier to remember the depth of the content without having to read from a full script. I still found it useful to have the bullet points on a post-it note in my eye-line, just so I could refer to it if my mind went blank! This approach allows you to go into more depth on your points, as it helps you remember the depth of what you want to say whilst also giving you room to add ideas as you go along!
That being said, the above approach is mostly applicable to VIs with unlimited preparation time (unless you can write a super speedy plan and practice!). If you have limited preparation time, I would try to focus on 2-3 key points and go into more depth - for example, include previous experiences and discuss how they created an interest in a certain area or motivated you to apply for this specific firm. It's usually stronger to go with quality over quantity, particularly if you are worried about your points sounding vague
I hope that assists
Also, do you have any tips on answering questions you haven't prepared for? I know firms give preparation time, but I feel like this isn't enough for me, and also don't know how to best use that time either. Do you have anything tips for both?Thank you
Hi, I would really appreciate someone who has done to Freshfields stage 1 online test to clarify this by replying to me. Thank you!
There’s 3 components: an SJT, WG and another element which is like a quick fire personality test thing. The SJT is untimed, the other two parts of the test are timed. The test should take roughly an hour to complete in full.
Thank you for responding! Would you say the questions are very similar to the practice tests they provided or much harder?
I'm struggling to find itHello!
Yes, it was recorded
Could you tell me where I can access the recording, please?
I am generally really bad at SJTs and WGs so it’s probably likely that my anecdotal experience will not be the same as everyone else’s. I attempted the practice tests and felt the actual test was pretty similar in terms of difficulty. However, I did have extra time as an adjustment, so not sure if that contributed to the experience. Not entirely sure what their benchmarks are either and if the benchmark will be increasing as more applications come through nearer to the deadline.
Anyone who was cut mid way in their A&O shearman VI and still got an AC? Or are they very strict? I got low verbal and numerical.
That's very interesting, because I did practice on Graduates First for the Watson Glaser test and I swear that the mock tests they have are the most difficult Watson Glaser tests known to man. One of them was so insanely difficult I thought that I was cooked for the real thing. But I found the practice tests that FF gave in their preparation portal to be a lot easier. For Situation Judgement, I've had a lot of experience with those when it comes to applying to retail jobs so I'm not as concerned with that part. But from what you've said I think I'll do atleast one test before.
Last year I progressed to online test with Reed Smith. My grades are terrible so I would say focus on tailoring your application more. I remember speaking about a topic that wasn't very academic but was true to my story of why I wanted a career in law. No fancy writing, just a simple walk through of what I did when I was younger, how it led me to law, then I linked it to the work at Reed Smith.
I'm using graduate first and the tests are definitely harder. Try assessment day, their tests are similar to the real thing.
Guys can anyone confirm if we need to put every grade individually in the Gowling WLG application? It’s not clear to me.
I got equivalent to 20 but not heard on next steps yet!
Have ppl received Hogan Lovells' Job Sim for their Summer VS after doing their first test. If so, how long did it take for HL to send over test 2?
I would but the price point is insane 😭 47 only ONE WEEK OF ACCESS to questions???? I hope there are promo codes out there
Try Assessly. It's mimic WG at most law firms which made me never failed. The price is also affordable
- Feb 17, 2018
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Hi everyone!
I'm very happy to say that Withers is live right now to answer any questions you have. You can join them in their thread here.
Katherine has substantial experience in the early talent space to provide you with guidance in your applications.
This is also a particularly good opportunity for those of you who want to know more about private client work.
I'm very happy to say that Withers is live right now to answer any questions you have. You can join them in their thread here.
Katherine has substantial experience in the early talent space to provide you with guidance in your applications.
This is also a particularly good opportunity for those of you who want to know more about private client work.
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