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  1. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    This actually made me laugh a bit. One thing that helped me was indeed shortening my work experiences to only the key ones, as I know for some firms you can only include 4-6. Another thing is that you usually can not go back to your application once sent off. Thus, it’ll be helpful to save a...
  2. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi! First off, I just want to say you’ve done really well to get to two ACs — that’s no small feat and shows real progress. In my view, the application stage is actually the hardest part because that’s where most candidates get filtered out — especially those who aren’t fully sure why they’re...
  3. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Have they told you what the AC is comprised of? Perhaps we’ll be able to advise better from there. Otherwise, let us know and we’ll be happy to give you general AC tips on frequent components typically seen across firms ;)
  4. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    When answering “What are you looking for from your Training Contract?” I think the strongest responses blend both - starting with what you are genuinely looking for in a training contract generally and then naturally connecting that to why the specific firm fits what you are looking for so well...
  5. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    In such a case, I typically structure the start like this: Dear Graduate Recruitment Team, RE: APPLICATION FOR WINTER/SPRING/SUMMER VACATION SCHEME 2025 My name is Amma Usman, a final-year undergraduate law student at the University of Leicester, applying for the 2025 Vacation Scheme at...
  6. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    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...
  7. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    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...
  8. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    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...
  9. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Congratulations! Very well deserved and hope you celebrate well.
  10. Amma Usman

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    Hi there, I have quoted some general tips on SJTs above to help.
  11. Amma Usman

    Burges Salmon - Direct TC

    Hiya, I have just checked their website and seen that the direct TC deadline isn’t until June. It is likely they are still reviewing applications for this particular route, and/or trying to sift through the remainder of the vac scheme applications/any other programmes.
  12. Amma Usman

    Mishcon

    Hiya, I have linked an old thread here which should help. It may have changed over the years but I believe there are still some useful tips which you can benefit from - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/mischon-final-interview.1121/
  13. Amma Usman

    To those who have had students shadow them as part of vacation schemes...

    Hi! I think the best people to answer this would be associates who typically supervise work experience students during these schemes as they’d have a good sense of what stands out. Just to check, are you asking for advice on how to secure the work experience by getting through the application...
  14. Amma Usman

    VC / TC applications with SQE completed

    Hi there. I have tagged @Jessica Booker here as I’m sure she’ll have more thoughts on how to approach this. Wishing you a lovely weekend.
  15. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi. It could mean a few things, for different firms, and I am unsure about S&M specifically. Sometimes, it’s a positive sign that your application has progressed and they’re at the final stage of consideration. Other times, contacting a referee may simply be part of their operational process and...
  16. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I completely understand the nerves but I don’t think you need to worry about this specific aspect too much. In a professional environment, I think starting off formal is always best. You never know who your recipient is, i.e how formal or not they like people to be. Some are quite formal, others...
  17. Amma Usman

    Clifford Chance Spark

    Hey there, The fact you don‘t have much legal knowledge is totally fine. In fact, you are not expected to have much as a first-year law/second year non-law student anyway. A large part of the AC will be business-related, and testing your commercial awareness. You will also likely be tested on...
  18. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    HOW TO RESEARCH A LAW FIRM - A SHORT 3-STEP APPROACH: I completely understand how overwhelming all the information on law firms can be, and having a good research strategy truly helps with navigating that. I have included one approach below. The first step is understanding the structure of law...
  19. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I’m sorry about this. You’re doing better than you think. Showing up and continuing to apply, even when it feels like nothing’s working, takes serious resilience. Keep backing yourself! For video interviews, here are some tips that might help: 1. Know your story. Have clear reasons for...

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