TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2023-24

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Jessica Booker

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Does anyone know the best way to go about asking a firm to switch scheme dates? I have accepted a place on a VS already, and took the earlier of the two options regarding dates. I have now been offered another scheme which clashes with those dates, and the only way that I could do both VSs is by asking the firm I have already accepted a VS with to switch me to a later scheme (which they do run).

Does anyone know the best way to go about this? Is an email or call to grad rec more suitable, and should I tell them that my reason for wishing to switch dates is so that I can attend another firm's VS?
Also, are firms usually accommodating in situations like this?

Many thanks in advance.
I would try to call in the first instance as a conversation will be far better and quicker than email - tone in what you say and being able to adapt to what is said is possible in a conversation, and you'll more likely get a more immediate outcome than if you rely on email (which you'll never know when it has been read).

However, sometimes calling firms can be tricky, so go to email if you can't speak to them on the phone.

But ultimately saying what you just have is really all that is needed for the basis of the conversation. You can emphasise your motivations for the firm and explain you don't want to compromise any opportunity, but if there is any flexibility to change dates you would be appreciative of the opportunity to move.

Be prepared for the firm to say no though - they don't have to move you and may just make you choose between the two firms.
 
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Jessica Booker

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Do firms tend to give out more offers than the number of interns they accept and by what percentage?
Yes - generally there will be more offers as some candidates will decline the offer.

How much the offer will be determined by the decline of offer rate which could be 0% but could be a very high percentage (have seen figures over 50% for small intakes!).
 

Jessica Booker

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@Jessica Booker Hi Jessica! The recruiter reached out to me after I submitted my work experience programme application and has asked for my most updated CV and suggested a phone call. I haven't been provided any other details so I will prepare for it as I would for a phone interview. I wanted to get your opinion on something else too -- the email subject line refers to the programme next month but the application I made was for a programme either in March or September. How can I best request for the September programme? I have classes and teachings in March so can't really go abroad for the w experience. Thank you!!
I would see how the process goes and then towards the end of the interview or after the interview follow up by email and say you'd like to be considered for September given you now have commitments for next month.
 
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Petallove1

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Feb 8, 2023
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Weightmans PFO
Tried to diversify my applications this year and applied to Weightmans Leeds Office
I thought it was a safe option. Obviously not, lol
Sorry to hear! I've found 99% of the time my 'safe' options are the ones that surprise me 🤣 and I actually tend to do better with apps for firms that push me out of my comfort zone a bit more. Not a VS or TC app but last year, I applied to a local high street firm in my town as a legal assistant following on from my distinction in the law conversion - naively thinking that it was a pretty safe bet. Within a week they sent me a rejection along with a really sassy email about how they didn't like my experience and I wasn't a fit. A month later landed a paralegal role at a well known law firm in the city. I guess my point is that the universe has a funny way of working and the right thing is coming along for you!!!
 
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