i’m also still waiting - when did you do yours? i have seen people saying they progressed so i’m guessing pfo
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
- Start date
Hi @Abbie Whitlock (@Jaysen and for others generally),
I am getting the feeling that this year's cycle has been more complex and challenging than before, especially with so many post AC rejections. I can't understand if this is due to firm's offering more ACs, just a reporting bias where more people are sharing unsuccessful AC experiences, if any application process changes are contributing to this, or some other reason.
If people have an AC coming up what's the best way to get it right ? I am feeling an increased amount of pressure due to a past failure to convert vacation schemes and unsuccessful ACs. I am assuming many others like me have developed a slight fear of failure where the joy of progressing is often overweighed by the fear of failing at that stage, staking everything on it and all the pressures that come with it, also the paralysis that follows from all this stress but also uncertainty, constant changes to the process, and maybe even increased post AC rejections. I am grateful to have an AC but as I only have one at the moment, I am increasingly afraid that is my only shot at this. I have wasted quite about bit of time in this paralysis and fear of failure before an interview. I was wondering how to make the most of the time I have left so that I feel confident enough in how I perform during the AC regardless of the result ?
I think someone also pointed out that they had contrasting feedback from ACs which messed up their subsequent AC. I had similar experiences, where either an extremely minor point or previous feedback really messed up another interview. How do I get out of my own head, and really focus on this specific interview or AC, without being overly conscious about previous feedback, and also how should I address any questions about why I was unable to convert previous schemes without it seeming like a redflag in terms of my skills or potential ?
I would also appreciate any tips on group exercises as I have not done one for an AC before, and they always seem to be a bit intense!
I am getting the feeling that this year's cycle has been more complex and challenging than before, especially with so many post AC rejections. I can't understand if this is due to firm's offering more ACs, just a reporting bias where more people are sharing unsuccessful AC experiences, if any application process changes are contributing to this, or some other reason.
If people have an AC coming up what's the best way to get it right ? I am feeling an increased amount of pressure due to a past failure to convert vacation schemes and unsuccessful ACs. I am assuming many others like me have developed a slight fear of failure where the joy of progressing is often overweighed by the fear of failing at that stage, staking everything on it and all the pressures that come with it, also the paralysis that follows from all this stress but also uncertainty, constant changes to the process, and maybe even increased post AC rejections. I am grateful to have an AC but as I only have one at the moment, I am increasingly afraid that is my only shot at this. I have wasted quite about bit of time in this paralysis and fear of failure before an interview. I was wondering how to make the most of the time I have left so that I feel confident enough in how I perform during the AC regardless of the result ?
I think someone also pointed out that they had contrasting feedback from ACs which messed up their subsequent AC. I had similar experiences, where either an extremely minor point or previous feedback really messed up another interview. How do I get out of my own head, and really focus on this specific interview or AC, without being overly conscious about previous feedback, and also how should I address any questions about why I was unable to convert previous schemes without it seeming like a redflag in terms of my skills or potential ?
I would also appreciate any tips on group exercises as I have not done one for an AC before, and they always seem to be a bit intense!
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Still nothing from Lewis Silkin? They said “early next week”.
Hi!
Congratulations on the VS!
In relation to the other firm, I would be cautious here if your only plan is to switch into the direct TC route. If the direct TC deadline has already passed, the firm may simply not allow you to transfer to that process halfway through - this could end up meaning that you put the effort into the application without being able to transfer. I would only apply if you are genuinely happy to complete the vacation scheme as the route to the TC at that firm.
There may be a reason the firm's DTC deadline was earlier than the vacation scheme deadline - they could already be well advance in allocating direct TC places or holding assessments, which would make it even less likely that they would allow a switch later on in the VS process
Throughout this application process (not just for VS/TC, but for jobs in general) I've learnt how essential confidence really is. Confidence to believe you deserve the opportunity. Confidence in what you could bring to the role. Confidence to articulate yourself clearly and unapologetically.
Some people grow up with that confidence instilled from a young age, and others have to learn it along the way. Often it isn’t the most qualified or the most eager person who gets the role - it’s the person who shows up with the confidence and audacity to take up space - the person who recognises their worth.
If you’re struggling with this, you’re definitely not alone. I’m learning to feel proud about how far I’ve come in terms of my confidence, and to acknowledge the resilience it takes to keep improving and refusing to give up despite the rejection.
But just like any other skill, confidence can be built.
I recently received a rejection email after my first paralegalling interview with a big firm. I still need to ask for feedback, but I have a feeling my confidence played a part - which is what inspired this little think piece 😅😂
Some people grow up with that confidence instilled from a young age, and others have to learn it along the way. Often it isn’t the most qualified or the most eager person who gets the role - it’s the person who shows up with the confidence and audacity to take up space - the person who recognises their worth.
If you’re struggling with this, you’re definitely not alone. I’m learning to feel proud about how far I’ve come in terms of my confidence, and to acknowledge the resilience it takes to keep improving and refusing to give up despite the rejection.
But just like any other skill, confidence can be built.
I recently received a rejection email after my first paralegalling interview with a big firm. I still need to ask for feedback, but I have a feeling my confidence played a part - which is what inspired this little think piece 😅😂
Right there with you
While I'm so grateful for one more chance, all my past AC's have me wondering if I'm even cut out for this/if I'm smart enough
Hi!
I am doing well, thank you - hope you are too!
Congratulations on the AC invite!
If I was preparing for an AC coming up soon, I would probably focus my preparation on general areas such as:- High interest rates and cost pressures (i.e. how this impacts borrowing and the M&A market)
- Geopolitical uncertainty (i.e. the disruption to trade, sanctions, supply chains, etc.)
- AI and tech regulation (i.e. how companies might weigh up opportunities vs risks)
- Energy transition and ESG pressures (i.e. regulatory change, and increased investor scrutiny)
- What is happening commercially
- Why it matters to businesses
- How that creates legal risk and opportunity
I would still keep up with the news in the run-up to your AC (e.g. by listening to the FT News Briefing) so that you are aware of recent developments. However, for case studies specifically, I have found that having a solid grasp of the broader commercial themes displayed in those headlines is usually more important than knowing a specific story in detail.
Best of luck at the AC - you've got this!
💪
which firm?Any tips for converting a vac scheme to a TC offer in a US firm? their convertion rates are low, which terrifies me hahah
Thanks!
@Abbie Whitlock @Jaysen @everyone
HL rejection post Job Sim
Looking forward to nothing!
Looking forward to nothing!
Was this for Summer VS? And if you don't mind me asking, when did you do the Job Sim?
From last year, I heard back in May! And the interview was super late as well, I wouldn't worry
Yeah! I did it last year. There will be a group presentation where you get to choose between two topics, ours was AI and sustainability and then an interview which is you and another candidate being interviewed by graduate recruitment at the same time. None of the questions were insane just make sure to really brush up on your commercial awareness and whats going on in the world, especially the north!Has anybody had experience with the Walker Morris AC? Would appreciate any advice
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