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  1. Ram Sabaratnam

    Training Contract Deadlines 2024/25 (Training Starting in 2027)

    Hey friends! We have put together a list of firms currently recruiting trainees via the direct training contract application route. We hope this makes things easier for those of you looking to apply, especially if you aren’t able to do a vacation...
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  2. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Howdy @KBanana :) Yes, I think that's completely fine. The key is to ensure that your experiences are presented clearly and tailored to highlight relevant skills and insights for both types of applications. Good luck!
  3. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hiya @lawyersum :) I don’t think it would look careless at all. It would be a great thing to highlight, even if you haven’t completed the specific Forage scheme for the firm you’re applying to. Forage schemes show that you've taken the initiative to gain a deeper understanding of what working...
  4. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hiya @deeja :) I used to find this sort of question quite tricky to answer. I would generally avoid discussing set backs related to academics or applications. Instead, I tried to focus on some of the more professional or volunteer-related setback. Here are some examples I've used in previous...
  5. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hiya @Apple :) You're definitely on the right track by looking at rankings and reputation in specific practice areas like mid-market M&A. It’s a good starting point when thinking about competitors. However, when answering this sort of question in my own applications/interviews, I found it...
  6. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hiya @Chelsea101 :) It's great that you're reapplying for a vacation scheme, but to build on what @Jessica Booker said, I'd recommend against submitting the same application you used for the training contract application in July. Even if the firm didn’t review your previous application...
  7. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Just building on what @Jessica Booker said in response. It’s great that you’re considering both the open day and the vac scheme! Your concern about potentially waiting a long time to hear back about the open day and the impact that might have on your vac scheme application also makes sense. Like...
  8. Ram Sabaratnam

    Solicitor Apprenticeship Applications

    Hi @waj0106 I think paragraphs are always great. They just make things much easier to read :) This is particularly good to remember when you consider that recruiters are reviewing hundreds of applications. In addition to plain, clear writing, an application that has good organisation and...
  9. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hiya @gazdgazd11 :) It appears Bird & Bird doesn't decide who to recruit on the basis of whether they've completed the LPC or SQE. You'll be able to read more about this in the firm's FAQ section, which can be found here. I think it's definitely worth giving them a shot - good luck!
  10. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi @Maddy Your response is generally good. With questions like these, it's a good idea to be specific about how you've used the tool in the context of your application. You could potentially consider expanding a bit by mentioning which sections you used AI tools for. For example, checking...
  11. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi @unknownnn7372 I think the key to answering this question is to be realistic, showing that you've thought through the potential challenges of being a trainee and have already begun taking practical steps to tackle them. When I was asked a similar question during a partner interview, I...
  12. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hiya @yeezyee :) I completely feel you! Writing applications is already challenging enough, but especially so if you're in a full-time role, have caring responsibilities, or any other commitments. I remember needing to catch my breath a few times when working full-time alongside writing...
  13. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    It's perfectly alright to lump them together in the same entry, especially if the experiences were quite similar (e.g. if one or more of the virtual internships dealt with M&A matters). I did this for many of my open days and insight events. Just make sure you still highlight any unique aspects...
  14. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Just wanted to echo @Jessica Booker 's reply. I'd recommend avoiding humour for these types of questions and, in most cases, for applications more generally (I'm saying this as someone who LOVES improv). While it’s tempting to try something different, firms are typically looking for...
  15. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hiya @Maddy Adding your Forage virtual internship to the work experience section is a great way to showcase your interest in law, and I definitely think it's worth including. However, rather than just listing tasks (e.g., "I answered clients' emails and reviewed NDAs"), I've generally found it...
  16. Ram Sabaratnam

    Open days

    Hi @vedikaaa :) I think this is a great start. You're absolutely right - given that there are several other firms involved in the event, it's best to balance specificity whilst writing more broadly about what you hope to gain by attending the event. Best of luck!
  17. Ram Sabaratnam

    Different ways of studying and learning SQE1 content

    Hi @NotMikeRoss :) First off, I’m really sorry to hear about the SQE1 result. It’s a tough exam with a massive volume of content. The fact that you’re reflecting on how to improve already shows great resilience. I’m also currently studying for SQE1, and I completely relate to the challenge of...
  18. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi @ayiiii05 :) You'll find the questions for last year's recruitment cycle below. Hope this helps: Q1 Please use the space below to describe the reasons you want to be a solicitor. Consider what first prompted your interest in the profession, your research on the profession, and particular...
  19. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi friends! Happy to report that it's completely fine to use 'NRF'. I did so in previous applications and was able to get through the initial stage. Best of luck with the application!
  20. Ram Sabaratnam

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi @unknownnn7372 Well done on getting to the AC! The Jones Day AC has changed a bit since I went through it in 2022, but you may be asked questions about areas of law or business that you’ve expressed interest in at the application stage. For example, I was asked several questions about the...

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