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  1. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @andrewk , This is a great question. The way I would approach this is by definitely mentioning the workshop as an experience which sparked your interest in finance, of which PE work sits in. However, by mentioning the debt finance workshop, you have not really touched on how that links to...
  2. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @jta227 , If the firm’s website is not as recent as you need, a brief skim through their LinkedIn profile will help. Alternatively, sources like Law.com International and the Lawyer also post regularly on these.
  3. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @Miss Chocolate , I definitely recommend including the firms name. Most times in interviews, your interviewers will have access to your application form and this question will almost always come up (well at least it did for me). You could be asked why X law firm (the firm you’re applying...
  4. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @MissAnnaliseKeating , Many people have different views on this. I have once used a deal that was 3 years old, but revolutionary in the industry and was only ever done by that firm before. As I had gotten past the application stage, I would say the date becomes an issue when you reference...
  5. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @cjwx , This is a really good question. While a high retention rate (like 96%) can be indicative of a supportive work environment and a firm’s investment in its trainees, I’ve been advised to prioritise other aspects of training when discussing why a firm appeals to you. For instance...
  6. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @FutureTraineeMaybe , I would say this depends on what draws you to TS. I know TS has a strong private equity practice and specifically advises more on mid-market PE deals. Is this an area of law you’re drawn to exploring more through a TC? If so, I recommend including it and linking it...
  7. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @murm , I see this as a very useful question to be honest, not just for those applying to PW, but also the full spectrum of law firms. My research strategy was as follows; 1. What does the firm pride itself on? Now I appreciate this may sound generic at first. In thinking of the answer...
  8. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi there @hawkins19 , I’ve linked our deadlines calendar here. From what I’ve briefly skimmed through, CRS and Ropes are open and non-rolling, among others -...
  9. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi there @WiddyJ , I’ve linked Andrei’s wonderful thread here to help with your VI prep - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/a-complete-guide-for-competency-interview-preparation.9380/
  10. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @hfbjsdhfbhf , With regards emails and memos for written exercises in ACs, I found it helpful also applying those same tips. Overall, you want to ensure you’re adhering to the right structure and formalities, whilst also answering the specific question and not going off tangents. From my...
  11. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @pleasepleaseplease , Yes, you can definitely go beyond the London office, but I still recommend touching on it in detail. This is because I presume the firm would want to know you are drawn to the office you’re applying to specifically. Before answering questions like this, I usually made...
  12. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @marisachr , I have never actually come across a written exercise that entails writing an article - most I‘ve seen involve writing an email or memo, in response to an article. However, I’ve come up with some general tips to help. These are more structure and formatting related, as they...
  13. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @EA95 , Very well done on getting the open day spot! Such a wonderful opportunity! First of all, I would say to remain calm and inquisitive throughout the day. The open days I made the most out of where those that I had kept an open mind to learn something new, either through the planned...
  14. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @Uch21 , This is a really good question. To help with wider commercial awareness beyond news reading, I usually spend some time learning new terms. This way, you can weave them in during interviews which sets you apart. Alternatively, doing so also helps make the articles/case studies make...
  15. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @Shia, I’ve quoted a few posts above to help. Best of luck with the AC!
  16. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey there @isTeapp , This is a very good question actually! I had no clue what it was prior to you mentioning it. So I did some research and came up with the below to help; I’ve also linked a few websites which have very useful guides on how to write one -...
  17. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @tcla02 , It depends on the firms and the nature of the assessment. I know for some assessments it usually says at the pre-amble/instructions that the time taken to complete it will be used in scoring. You will also usually find this in the email GR sent you inviting you to take the...
  18. Amma Usman

    Ask 4 future trainees ANYTHING! *New TCLA Team Members*

    Hi there @hello123 , I don’t have much to add to @Andrei Radu ’s wonderful response. With regards motivational and competency interviews, I generally recommend candidates knowing their skills and experiences in and out. This way, any question you’re asked wouldn’t trip you off as you can...
  19. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @Tiffanychan4 , I completely get that feeling. I felt the same way during my first VI as well. My take on it is that once you know your skills, passions, experiences, and drivers well, then you’ll be able to answer ANY question asked that is situational/competency based. Add a sprinkle of...
  20. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi there @vstchunter , Most firms receive the bulk of their applications in the last two weeks of the specified deadline date. So, I see no harm in applying!

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