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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

trainee4u

Legendary Member
Sep 7, 2023
553
1,137
Heyy @Abbie Whitlock & TCLA crew

Saw this on TikTok and what do we think of the below for answering “Why this Firm” because I’m trying to figure out if I missed the memo or something and this is the new method? 😭😭😭😭

View attachment 7893
That smells like AI.
brother-ew-ew.gif
 

Abbie Whitlock

Administrator
Staff member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Sep 11, 2025
794
831
Heyy @Abbie Whitlock & TCLA crew

Saw this on TikTok and what do we think of the below for answering “Why this Firm” because I’m trying to figure out if I missed the memo or something and this is the new method? 😭😭😭😭

View attachment 7893
Hey!

That is an interesting take, but I don't think I agree with such a rigid viewpoint. In my view, a strong "why this firm" answer usually draws on 2-3 specific, well-developed reasons, rather than trying to write a few hundred words on one deal or transaction that the firm has completed recently.

Focusing on multiple aspects (such as a practice area that you are genuinely interested in, a particular pro bono initiative, and something like international secondment opportunities) helps show why this firm specifically has the right mix of factors motivating you. Simply saying that you are interested in PE, for instance, wouldn't necessarily explain why you are applying to Paul, Weiss rather than Ropes & Gray.

As long as each point is concrete and explained in some depth, I don't think discussing more than one area comes across as desperate at all. If anything, I'd say it shows you've thought carefully about where you'll fit best and that you have a good understanding of the firm :)
 
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Lissa06

Standard Member
Sep 16, 2025
7
0
Heyyyy!! 😸

Ok, so I’m pretty sure they do tell us if we have questions about the anti-cheating methods to reach out to them.

So I would just screenshot your call log on your Mac to show what time the call came through and how you declined it. Then explain the situation and it should be okay I hope.

Like really and truly, with the emphasis they place on there being this secret system monitoring us do the test… honest people are bound to be anxious and they shouldn’t penalise you for that.
That's a fair point, thank you! I didn't know they tell us to reach out abt it – honestly never thought it would affect me... Thanks!
 

Lissa06

Standard Member
Sep 16, 2025
7
0
My understanding is that neither Capp nor Amberjack have any kind of client-side proctoring.

There might be something on the server, e.g., response times too short or long, that might flag stuff.
Ohh that's fair, I think I am just traumatised by Pearson and other more serious platforms (used to take a lot of language exams as a kid), and those do track that. Thank you so much!
 

Abbie Whitlock

Administrator
Staff member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Sep 11, 2025
794
831
how can i prepare for a written task where I need to draft an argument? @Abbie Whitlock
Hey!

For this type of written task, I would say that the focus should be on structure and prioritisation rather than perfect legal knowledge. Therefore, I'd focus on the following areas:
  1. Start with a clear stance / position: state your conclusion or recommendation upfront so that the assessor knows exactly what you are arguing (almost like an executive summary)
  2. Use a logical structure: there isn't necessarily a strict one you have to follow, but I would briefly set out the facts, identify the key issues, and then deal with each point in turn - just make sure to explain why each point supports your argument. It might help to utilise headings for your answer.
  3. Be selective and prioritise: you might not have time to cover absolutely everything, so I would pick the strongest points and develop them properly, rather than listing lots of weaker ones in less depth.
  4. Acknowledge counterarguments: as you would in a university essay, I would briefly acknowledge them to show judgment and balance, especially if you then explain why they don't outweigh your conclusion (i.e. why your argument is stronger)
  5. Write clearly and commercially: you should aim to be concise and clear - try not to waffle (easier said than done, I know!) and try to keep the client's objectives in mind when you are answering.
It really helps to practice these sorts of exercises under time pressure - for instance, you could take a commercial article and summarise it into an argument in 30-45 minutes. This will help build your confidence for the real thing!

I hope that assists, and best of luck! :)
 

Donna Paulsen

Legendary Member
  • Sep 23, 2025
    298
    940

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