It was weird.. there's no other way to describe it
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
- Start date
Hello!
Of course, I can share some general tips for VIs and SJTs that I always used in my last cycle. I can't share too much information on Reed Smith's in particular, just because the process has to be fair for all candidates!
Some SJT advice that I found really useful was actually shared by Zainab, and I'll copy it below. Just always remember that you are answering these situations as a trainee and so you should view each situation from that perspective.
- Recognise Your Role as a Trainee: As a trainee, you are not yet qualified to provide legal advice independently. Your work will require input and oversight from qualified professionals to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Value Collaboration: Law firms operate as collaborative environments. While it’s essential to demonstrate initiative and a willingness to take on tasks, many projects will require teamwork and the support of others to succeed.
- Adopt a Risk-Averse Mindset: Law firms are naturally cautious about risks. Your decisions and actions should align with this approach to protect the firm and its clients.
- Prioritise Quality Over Speed: Delivering thorough, high-quality work is more important than rushing to complete tasks. Precision and attention to detail are critical.
- Optimise Your Time: As your time is billed to clients, it's important to work efficiently. If seeking guidance can help you complete a task faster and more effectively, don’t hesitate to do so—it benefits both you and the firm.
- Follow the Priority Hierarchy: Decisions should prioritise the client first, your colleagues second, and yourself last. While this may feel counterintuitive, it ensures that the firm maintains its commitment to service and teamwork.
- Balance Initiative with Responsibility: Taking on additional tasks can demonstrate your drive and determination, but ensure this doesn’t compromise the quality or timeliness of your existing commitments. Delegate, defer, or reorganise tasks as needed to maintain balance.
For VI's, I'd make sure that you are fully answering the question and that all of the examples you use actually link. I used to have a tendency to want to use my strongest example and try and fit it to the question, however, the graduate recruitment team can usually tell and it'll look better to use an example that fits best. I would also practice - it can be very weird to talk to a computer screen, so have a go at answering the most common interview questions in the mirror! Make sure you also utilise your prep time, as this is really useful! There was actually a video on TCLA in the Law Firm Directory that I watched before my SJT and VI that I found was super helpful - I'll link it here. I'd definitely give that a watch, as Rik gives some great advice on what they are looking for and how to approach each aspect
I hope that helps! Best of luck with the SJT and VI to anyone completing it
Hey I know this isnt for me but I applied on 7th September and I received the invite today if that helpscould I ask when you applied?
Ofc! I applied 2nd Septembercould I ask when you applied?
what time did you receive the invite? i got through to 2nd stage but haven’t heard anything yet
same thing – I hope they're sending out invites one by one and that they're not yet done with it
No, but they're getting back to everyone today about the October one apparently
Apparently semi rolling, I'd ask GR team as I'll attend the app session with them tomorrow.
I suggest you apply by now as tomorrow is the deadline I guess
Well DLA told me they were none rolling. Honestly their grad rec team is so bad and has been for many years
So what's the correct answer then lol, are they rolling or not?? How are they all sitting in one office and end up providing different information... 🤦♂️
Hi everyone!
I applied for DLA's Summer Internship a couple of weeks ago, but didn't receive a confirmation email (it didn't go to junk either).
When I log into DLA's application portal I can see that I've applied and there's a message that says:
'Thank you for your interest in DLA Piper. Please complete your assessments as soon as possible.'
However, I can't see anywhere to complete any assessment on the portal.
Has everyone else experienced the same?
I applied for DLA's Summer Internship a couple of weeks ago, but didn't receive a confirmation email (it didn't go to junk either).
When I log into DLA's application portal I can see that I've applied and there's a message that says:
'Thank you for your interest in DLA Piper. Please complete your assessments as soon as possible.'
However, I can't see anywhere to complete any assessment on the portal.
Has everyone else experienced the same?
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