TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[ninarosee]

they have another AC today - they said we will have to wait around a week after this AC to hear back iirc

edit: also did you see your comment being posted on TCLA's instagram hahah - you're famous now!

stoppp 😭 not my TCLA debut… fame was never the plan but I’ll take it 😂

 

[ninarosee]

stoppp 😭 not my TCLA debut… fame was never the plan but I’ll take it 😂

 

[calebnash]

any advice on how to relate a current affairs issue e.g. Trump's tariffs to a firm and its clients for an upcoming AC?

 

[l789]

I am currently on my fourth rejection post assessment centre (US Law firms). I have no issue making it past first round interviews but this is now my fourth rejection post AC - and I have nothing to show for myself.

Where do I go from here. Is it time to call it quits on a career in law, I always felt I acted upon my feedback and that’s why I’ve always had no issue making it to the second stage of interviews, but i never make it past the second round, it seems like this is a me problem.

Even if I applied for less competitive firms, I’ve now failed 4 interviews/ACs. Am I even cut out for this.

 

[spamelinazoid]

anyone also still waiting on milbank post-first test? Are we assuming PFO now if still waiting?

 

[Morris123]

I have Jones Day AC coming up, any tips would be really appreciated!

 

[Harvey Specter]

stoppp 😭 not my TCLA debut… fame was never the plan but I’ll take it 😂

This is gna be you at the TCLA Awards 2026 cos now you’re an A-list TCLA celebrity!​

This will be the paparazzi and camera crew who want to get their pics and autographs.​

 

[TheGeek12]

Does anyone know how Gibson Dunn is for reasonable adjustments?

 

[ACHat8r]

surprise surprise, the forum blows up and its all bc of Baker Mckenzie. i didnt even apply to this firm and its getting on my nerves

 

[Donna Paulsen]

I kept pulling the Dwiggy smile in my VI 😭😭😭 cba why am I so awkward

 

[TheGeek12]

I am currently on my fourth rejection post assessment centre (US Law firms). I have no issue making it past first round interviews but this is now my fourth rejection post AC - and I have nothing to show for myself.

Where do I go from here. Is it time to call it quits on a career in law, I always felt I acted upon my feedback and that’s why I’ve always had no issue making it to the second stage of interviews, but i never make it past the second round, it seems like this is a me problem.

Even if I applied for less competitive firms, I’ve now failed 4 interviews/ACs. Am I even cut out for this.

I completely understand how you feel. And it can hurt - especially when there are other people progressing. I'm not sure empty words will make you feel better, but maybe it would be helpful to think what about law you like to help you remember why want to be a solicitor.
Sometimes, I think of the sheer number of people applying and it is insane just how competitive it is.
Also, making it to ACs is definitely an achievement! It is experience that will be helpful going further.
It may be worth consulting with a careers team or places like Aspiring Solicitors to actually figure out how to act on your feedback.

 

[zonnonomo]

View attachment 7719
I kept pulling the Dwiggy smile in my VI 😭😭😭 cba why am I so awkward

me when i answer with straight face: wow what a cocky corporate robot

smiling while answering: omg get this creep off my screen

 

[tc2026]

did anyone apply for Kennedys PEC programme? (ldn)

 

[I’m a celebrity get me out of here - VS/TC edn]

Bit different from the usual vacation scheme or direct TC discussion, but I have another opportunity that may be of interest!

Agio Ratings is a fintech startup whose products are used by trading firms, insurers, and banks.

Agio Ratings Limited is seeking a highly capable Associate to support senior leadership across a range of legal, commercial, and operational activities. This role is well suited to a candidate with a strong paralegal background, excellent organisational skills, and the confidence to operate with a high degree of autonomy in a fast-moving, professional environment.

The successful candidate will act as a trusted support to senior officers, helping to ensure that key business objectives are progressed efficiently and that information, documentation, and communications are managed to a consistently high standard.

Key responsibilities

• Managing and maintaining legal, financial, and commercial documents, ensuring accuracy, version control, and appropriate filing
• Preparing, updating, and maintaining spreadsheets, databases, and written materials to support sales activity and core business functions
• Helping manage outside counsel and driving efficient use of external legal resources
• Proactively communicating with senior members of the global team to track progress against objectives and deadlines
• Managing schedules, including diary coordination and meeting logistics
• Attending meetings with key clients to assist with presentations, note taking, and follow-up actions
• Assisting with internal communications, including preparation and coordination of written materials
• Providing general administrative and operational support in a growing, fast-paced business environment

Candidate profile

• Paralegal or similar background, with at least two years’ experience
• Undergraduate degree from a Russell Group or equivalent university
• Complete fluency in English, with exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrable experience managing legal and financial documentation
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Proven self-starter who operates effectively with minimal supervision

Enhancing attributes

• Experience in financial services, professional services, or a regulated environment
• Confidence interacting with senior stakeholders and executives
• Strong judgement and discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information

Working arrangements

The role is based in London, with office attendance at Agio Ratings Limited’s Bloomsbury office required. The balance between in-office and remote working will be agreed with the successful candidate, reflecting business needs and individual effectiveness.

Message me directly if you think you would be a suitable candidate.

In terms of RG university requirement equivalent would that be Ivy League or st Andrew’s/ Loughborough?

 

[TheGeek12]

So many paralegal jobs require years of paralegal experience

 

[zonnonomo]

I am currently on my fourth rejection post assessment centre (US Law firms). I have no issue making it past first round interviews but this is now my fourth rejection post AC - and I have nothing to show for myself.

Where do I go from here. Is it time to call it quits on a career in law, I always felt I acted upon my feedback and that’s why I’ve always had no issue making it to the second stage of interviews, but i never make it past the second round, it seems like this is a me problem.

Even if I applied for less competitive firms, I’ve now failed 4 interviews/ACs. Am I even cut out for this.

i was rejected from over 8 ACs & interviews (US/silver/intl) over 3 years and got my first VS at an MC firm this cycle

i genuinely believe that luck is a huge part of this, not just our innate attributes. getting to 4 ACs & actioning feedback is baller, writing apps that progress + clearing first rounds even more so

you're so so close. please do not leave us until you sign that tc

 

[jojo23]

what's a unit

View attachment 7718

ALL JOKES haha i scrolled down I know it's a compliment 😂 haha I will try and remember that, thank you jojosi... jojo 🫶
another word to add to my british slang dictionary

you're an absolute unit too 💪💪💪

jojosi.. what were you gonna say there😮

no but fr, im certain you'll do amazing on both, just go with the same energy you have here🔥

 

[PermanentParalegal]

How is everyone prepping for Skadden interview? Any tips/advice? Slightly freaking out...!

Commercial awareness bro. Don’t mess up like I did

 

[Novaa]

So many paralegal jobs require years of paralegal experience

LOL me getting ghosted when a recruiter asked what my private client experience was… and I basically said idk I got a 1st in Law of Trusts??

 

[Afraz Akhtar]

I am currently on my fourth rejection post assessment centre (US Law firms). I have no issue making it past first round interviews but this is now my fourth rejection post AC - and I have nothing to show for myself.

Where do I go from here. Is it time to call it quits on a career in law, I always felt I acted upon my feedback and that’s why I’ve always had no issue making it to the second stage of interviews, but i never make it past the second round, it seems like this is a me problem.

Even if I applied for less competitive firms, I’ve now failed 4 interviews/ACs. Am I even cut out for this.

@I789 sorry to see this, but given the fact you've made it to four AC's and that too with US law firms, I doubt the issue is with the fact that you're not cut out for this career - however it could be that you're not cut out for AC's presently - yet, that doesn't mean it will always be the case.

AC's are actually very demanding/nerve-wracking and often or not it takes a lot of getting out of your comfort zone to make it through. Given the intensity and fast paced nature of these, e.g. having to sell yourself to someone for one hour, then going into an intense group discussion with people you've never met, and then analysing/writing/presenting at intense speed; all under the pressure of being assessed for a career that's going to change your life - so a lot of people aren't actually cut out for them naturally. However, that doesn't mean that is always going to be the case so long as they work on improving what is holding them back.

Before making any rash decisions, think about the feedback you've received and check to see if there are common themes/patterns. I appreciate you've made the effort to act upon it but perhaps a little more is needed here? Aside from that, consider what elements of the AC you don't like/make you uncomfortable - maybe without realising, that discomfort here is holding you back from letting you perform your best? Let me know, and we can try identifying ways to improve it?