Michelmores online assessment invite!!
TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25
- Thread starter Jessica Booker
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I attended the Burges AC on March 6th, they emailed to say that they hoped to contact us with updates on the outcome by this past Friday. It is Monday and I haven't heard back, but someone I know who also was at the same AC told me they called him with an offer on Wednesday. But he also knows someone else from the AC that they contacted with a pfo... waiting on pins and needles but is it too soon to send a follow up? I am hoping that maybe it is taking a bit longer because I am a 'maybe' or will be put on the reserve list?
Anyone have any insight or have experienced this before?
Anyone have any insight or have experienced this before?
Gibson Dunn or Winston & Strawn? Last VS apps I’ve got pending. Expecting rejections for both of them.
Anyone still waiting on GD - I'm doing their second stage interview this Friday, and they have said it is the last AC they are running for this cycle (for the vac scheme at least). There is a waiting list for this AC if anyone invited can't do it, so I am also guessing it is full
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, good luck for your other app !LIFT Programme offer from Clyde & Co!
nrf pfo post ac. recieved this morning via email. last app for me of this cycle as well.
gutted as I loved the firm as I prepped for the AC.
gutted as I loved the firm as I prepped for the AC.
further to this, is there any links to which direct TC's are still open this cycle?
Finally finally finally FINALLY I have a vac scheme offer. My one and only application to make it past the paper stage (on a formal vac scheme anyway)!
Jessica Booker
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- Aug 1, 2019
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I would try to wait until Wednesday afternoon before following up if you haven't heard back by then. Giving the firm at least 2 working days after their original deadline is generally polite and helps to just balance out any risk of them just being slightly behind schedule.
- Sep 7, 2024
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It’s completely understandable to feel anxious waiting for an update, especially after hearing that some people have received responses. However, it’s quite common for firms to stagger their communications after an assessment centre for a number of reasons. Sometimes, timelines shift slightly due to scheduling or internal processes taking longer than expected, particularly around weekends. In other cases, they may be working through different categories of candidates, which can naturally result in a delay if they are still finalising outcomes. Since their original timeline only passed on Friday and it is still early in the week, it might be worth waiting a while before following up.
W&S I haven't heard about, but GD sent me a PFO last Thursday (complete with generic application advice with a typo in it), so maybe login to allhires to be sure your PFO didn't get spam filtered or something.
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W&S TC intake is tiny anyway. Wasn’t expecting G&D VS now really. Focus is just TCs going forward.
- Sep 7, 2024
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It doesn’t have to be entirely commercial-driven. It’s easy to feel that way because you’re applying to commercial law firms, but the question is just as much about what genuinely excites you about the role of a solicitor. Naturally, it helps to show that you understand the client-focused nature of the work and the fact that you are advising businesses, helping them manage risk, and navigate legal issues. However, that doesn’t mean your answer has to revolve solely around an interest in markets or corporate strategy. You can absolutely talk about what draws you in personally, whether that is solving complex problems, working collaboratively with different teams, or learning continuously as industries evolve. Some people are also genuinely interested in the legal research and drafting side or enjoy being in a role where their advice directly shapes client decisions.
That said, it is really important to make sure that whatever examples you choose, you avoid falling into the trap of giving a generic answer that could apply to any commercial profession, as @Jessica Booker rightly pointed out. Saying things like you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment or you are interested in business without tying it back to the specific nature of a solicitor’s work can make your answer sound vague and less convincing. The key is showing that you understand what is unique about the solicitor role - applying legal knowledge in a commercial context, building long-term client relationships, and balancing legal risk with practical solutions… and explaining why that appeals to you personally. If you can get that balance right, your answer will come across as thoughtful, tailored, and genuine.
- Sep 7, 2024
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I completely sympathise with how you are feeling. The waiting part is honestly the hardest, especially after putting so much effort into preparing and going through the day. It is so natural to keep replaying everything in your head, wondering how you came across or whether certain moments went well. But unfortunately, there is really no way to tell how you did until the firm gets back to you with their decision or feedback. Assessment centres are designed to test a range of skills and sometimes what feels average to you in the moment might have actually landed well with the assessors.
One thing I would say is try not to over-analyse every little thing, even though I know that is easier said than done. Try to distract yourself by doing something you enjoy or that helps take your mind off it, even if just for a few hours. It really helps with the waiting. Also, please do not worry, you are not being annoying at all. I completely get the anxiety.
In terms of gauging how you did, I really relate because my first AC felt like a whirlwind and the hour-long interview especially can be daunting when you have never done anything like it before. The truth is, it is so hard to know because assessors pick up on things we do not even realise in the moment. The best thing you can do is remind yourself that getting to the AC stage already means they saw potential in you, and that experience alone is huge. Regardless of the outcome, it is going to help you massively for the next one. You did more than you think just by getting through the day.
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