TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Trophy]

Genuinely wondering what I could be doing wrong at this point. For reference re written applications, I have been told by University careers advisers that I have very strong answers, so this doesn't appear to be the problem.

At undergrad I had one of the top-3 degree scores in one of the top business schools in the country. Now at PGDL, I was similarly top of the class in almost all mock examinations (haven't got any real grades from it yet). I was a national level sportsperson, President of a university sports team, took part in loads of Forage programmes, open days, career dinners, and feel confident with VIs as have done loads of prep and done lots of public speaking in the past. I also have work experience at law firms, as well as across varying fields which should show being well-rounded.

I just can't understand how the rejections can be piling up as much as they are - is luck really as much of a factor as it seems to be?

Luck is a factor but also take your time. Don’t write applications fast and back to back. It’s important to take your time when writing them I don’t mean 2 weeks but a few days and one application at a time get to know the firm and your motivations.

Use those experiences you have and really let them shine. How do they relate to the firm at hand? You need to sell yourself in the best way possible.

 

[abc124]

Aha I know I’m just joking as I got called out for calling GR lazy last week.

I think it’s lazy to not do the job you have and to do it properly. I guess ppl make mistakes but in a profession where attention to detail is crucial I’d expect those assessing me have that quality themselves 🫣 I said what I said. I’m ready to be attacked for voicing my opinion once again 🤺

My friend’s rejection email had grammar errors, it was quite ironic lol

 

[anon78365222111]

guys... what do you do when you're just dead tired... like not physically

Put on some David Goggins and keep going loool

 

[radssss]

guys... what do you do when you're just dead tired... like not physically

I watch a show and have a 🍺 and feel better especially after staring at a screen all day doing apps and then those awful tests which give me a headache

 

[Trophy]

guys... what do you do when you're just dead tired... like not physically

Sleep! You’re on the forum at 1am there’s no way you’re getting enough sleep😭

 

[EfficientBag123]

Has anyone received a invitation or PFO from Baker McKenzie post SJT

Yes, I did. I was invited 2 days ago.

 

[CharlesT47]

Ah really doubt Willkie is getting back to me today. I think we must be in the ‘maybe’ category. At least that’s better than a no I guess

 

[LuckyLegallyBrunette]

Received PFO from DLA today kind of expected but still stings

 

[ik06]

Hey! Has anyone received a reply from Davis Polk?

 

[DavidJC]

guys... what do you do when you're just dead tired... like not physically

rn I'm just trying to wind down and take a break, get back to work on applications later cos I think I really need it, at least I had a useful chat with my uni's careers service today (different person from the usual) and I've got a better idea on how to fix my application answers.

But honestly, probably just taking walks and minimising screen time. I'm a night owl (like you? or maybe it's just the busyness of the cycle getting to you idk ) and I think I've realised I've just not been getting enough natural light plus the rejections and generally taxing nature of these applications is getting to me. So yeah maybe going out and having walks is a good thing. Something I used to do in the past to "detox" as well was not even put on music or a podcast or anything and go out and walk for 1-2 hours, just trying to be tech-free (I don't have a watch so I carry my phone with me as a clock at the very least) and feel the breeze

 

[BobThebIlly]

Should i assume a PFO from Gowling lmao? I couldn't sit the arctic shores test as part of my RA and I have heard nothing from them...

Do I email them or is this a sign to leave them alone

 

[BobThebIlly]

guys... what do you do when you're just dead tired... like not physically

Ive recently gotten into LEGO and Ive found it to be so relaxing. I'm currently building the Animal Crossing set xo

 

[jamieclarke]

Hi I applied for Fieldfisher London for direct TC and have received the holding e-mail?

I thought they were none-rolling?

 

[BobThebIlly]

omg cute!!! I haven't built a lego in ages omg the set is so cute haha enjoy that!! if u can send on a pic when ur done!!

IT ISS! I will deffo send the pic -- it will motivate me to actually finish building it

 

[JasmineM9]

Any invites from Kirkland today?

Anyone heard from the following:

Latham Post stage 2
Goodwin Post app

I genuinely cannot cope with the wait haha🥹

 

[FutureTraineeMaybe]

Does anybody have insights into what strength based questions look like?

 

[Elsie07777]

fieldfisher interview invite

Congrats! Can I ask when did you apply? I applied on 8/12 and haven't heard any back yet

 

[yk1906]

Does anybody have insights into what strength based questions look like?

e.g. Describe a time you demonstrated resilience/teamwork/adaptability, etc.

 

[Madison Pinewall]

I don’t mean to seem rude but please can you stop giving us a running commentary. I see you post about 50 times on here a day and most are not actually related to vacation schemes. It makes useful information much harder to access if people are constantly having to read through pages and pages of posts related to you having a nap or building Lego.

I disagree with this. Yes this forum provides good application advice, but it also creates a community. I enjoy hearing how other people are dealing with this application period, it can be stressful and it's nice to know you aren't alone. If you're looking for something specific you can use the search tool. Alternatively, considering it's just a few messages every now and then it can't amount to more than a page of text which takes all of 30 seconds to skim.

 

[lesh]

Can anyone share the interview question they had behind their Mishcon de reya AI thing