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Search results

  1. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @DesperateForVac , just building on my last response. I often use a trick to find a law firm’s competitors. It’s quite easy to implement and has saved me a lot of time. First, look at X firm’s core practice areas. Second, search what Chamber’s Rankings it has in that areas. Third...
  2. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @DesperateForVac , I remember some points on the firm’s approach when I was applying for first year schemes. I’ve included some of them below, together with a mix of recent updates (I’ve linked a recent article below as well). I believe CMS distinguishes itself through its global...
  3. Amma Usman

    Work Experience Section

    Hey @Sad_Old_Grad , Thanks for sending this through. Also, please never feel like it’s a bother - we’re here to help! I also completely get how nerve twitching the whole process can be. I’ve provided some detailed feedback below; Role (Junior Legal Assistant, Non-UK Organisation) The...
  4. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @vishnu , the firm has no minimum A-Level requirements. I have seen from other sources, not the firm directly, that the firm does not have degree requirements either. However, in any case which is not confirmed by the firm, I suspect a 2:1 or better.
  5. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @Apple. Sure thing, I’ve included a few points below; Read the question repeatedly - this may seem like a rather granular point, but taking enough time to understand the key requirements of the question will prevent you from making any last minute errors. Is the focus of the case study...
  6. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi there @TheInevitableTCholder2024/25. Most firms have a 4-seat training structure but Burges Salmon’s TC’s include a six seat rotation.
  7. Amma Usman

    Mid-Week Motivation

    Hi all! I hope you’re all having a wonderful week! This is just a reminder to be kind to yourself and keep going! As we keep diving deeper into the application cycle, it’s important to remember to not let any setbacks get to you. You are on this journey for a reason and you are one application...
  8. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @Apple. If it hasn’t been stated in the initial email invite, feel free to shoot grad rec an email asking for this. Where there is a delay on their end in responding, I recommend completing it as soon as possible, as I know some firms set a limit of anything from 2-7 days.
  9. Amma Usman

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

    Hey @lawyersum , thanks for the question. Just before @Ram Sabaratnam and @Andrei Radu get back to you as well, I’ve included a few points below; Any situation you choose is fine. Ultimately, the weight and impact of your answer is dependent on your ability to appropriately describe the...
  10. Amma Usman

    PRIVATE EQUITY : A BASIC GUIDE

    Hey @Iceemettyy , glad you found the thread useful! And yes, diversifying is so important at this stage - feel free to pop any questions in if you have them ;)
  11. Amma Usman

    50 Capital Markets Terms To Know

    Hey TCLA Community! In this thread, I’ve complied a list of 50 Capital Markets terms and their respective definitions. This will be particularly useful for those of you drawn to transactional law and are keen to know more about how these bustling financial markets work! The first step? You...
  12. Amma Usman

    10 Commercial Awareness Sources

    Hey all! I hope you’re all having a fantastic mid-week! I’ve included below 10 sources to help solidify that commercial awareness! Let’s keep going and building up on that skill everyday…!!! Pro-tip: Take building commercial awareness as a lego exercise - building little blocks everyday before...
  13. Amma Usman

    Simmons & Simmons Work Experience Section

    Hi @OVLD68 , great question. Some firms do put limits on how many experiences you can put in the boxes. In situations like this, I recommend inputting the key 4 experiences that are most relevant to the trainee solicitor role. It doesn’t have to be legal, just anything which can demonstrate a...
  14. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @KBanana I agree with @Ram Sabaratnam ‘s point that covering three practice areas within a 200-word limit may not be completely feasible, especially as you also want to address a training-related point. You will need to clearly expound on why each distinct practice area appeals to you...
  15. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Well done on sending off your first application @legal18 ! Goodluck with the cycle. We’re rooting for you all..! 🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀
  16. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi everyone, A quick reminder to maintain a constructive and respectful atmosphere in our discussions. Let’s focus on providing insightful feedback and avoid personal comments to ensure a positive, supportive environment. Thank you!
  17. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @IneedaTCASAP , well done! I’ve linked two pieces of advice from the team below; @Ram Sabaratnam : “As for video interviews, I think the key is to practice answering typical video interview questions as often as possible. You can do this by creating skeleton outlines for the standard...
  18. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @LawLawLawLawLaw , @Ram Sabaratnam has perfectly covered both questions. With regards your second question, @Andrei Radu has also made a guide on navigating VIs which I’ve linked below...
  19. Amma Usman

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

    Hey @legal18 , this is a good draft. I believe you could make a few tweaks to make it even stronger. As @Jessica Booker had pointed out, your answer should focus on your motivations more. You seem to sway more into the realm of why you, rather than why commercial law. I understand how easy it is...
  20. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @bsh , Sector focus is certainly a strong angle to take. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that this can sometimes come across as a bit generic, as many top law firms excel in similar sectors. To make your application stand out, it’s helpful to identify a niche within the sector that...

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