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Search results

  1. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! It happens to the best of us! It’s hard to say how the graduate recruitment team will approach it, but I’m sure if your overall application is very strong they’ll overlook it. Try not to worry too much! :)
  2. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! Congratulations on getting the interview, what a fantastic achievement! Most first-stage interviews will be relatively conversational, with the aim of learning more about your motivations and skillset. You can expect questions around your motivation for law, why Gibson Dunn specifically...
  3. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I'd try to keep it short and focused - 100 words goes quickly, so stick to the most important information that shows your skills. Briefly mention what you did, what your responsibilities were, and what you learned / the skills it taught you. You don't need to describe everything - just...
  4. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! From my understanding, it's not super common for firms to let you postpone or "roll over" an offer from one season to another, particularly if they are separate processes. In the past, I have been able to change my 'preference' (for example, where you are able to apply for both spring...
  5. Abbie Whitlock

    Tips on how to study for multiple exams

    You're welcome, I'm glad to hear it! :) I hope your exams go well!
  6. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! I had a similar query in the past - it's generally acceptable to list only your referee's email, especially if it's their official work address. If the form requires a phone number, I would check with the graduate recruitment team or enter a more general phone number for the academic...
  7. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I wouldn't assume that just because you haven't heard back it's a rejection - no news can often be good news! Firms usually have quite complicated timelines for sending out interviews and test invites, and they tend to do it in batches. Try not to overthink it too much (easier said than...
  8. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! Good question - it's smart to mention a few different things in your answer to show you have a good understanding of the firm! Alongside their practice areas, you could talk about: Culture and Training: what attracts you about how the firm develops its trainees or its collaborative...
  9. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! Totally understandable that it may not be ideal to film the VI on holiday! If there is still a bit of time before it's due, it could be worth emailing the graduate recruitment team to ask - the worst thing they can say is no! However, keep in mind that they might not get to your email in...
  10. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I would still submit it even if you think you messed up the first question - sometimes the depth of your answer will come across better than you think! Additionally, it is unlikely that they'll refer to any previous applications if you want to apply in the future. Law firms receive so...
  11. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! This generally can mean at any point in the week - I wouldn't assume that because you haven't heard at the beginning of the week, it is an automatic rejection (or vice versa) as there are many different factors that the graduate recruitment team will need to account for before making any...
  12. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi! Just to add to the other great replies - I interviewed for their spring vacation scheme last year, and I thought I'd share a few additional tips that might be helpful. I'd recommend reviewing your original application before the interview as I was asked several questions about my...
  13. Abbie Whitlock

    secure a tc in 2026

    Hello! You're definitely not alone in feeling this way - it's totally normal to worry about grades, but a low 2:1 doesn't automatically close doors, even at US firms! There are plenty of examples of candidates securing TCs with similar profiles as they have demonstrated drive, commercial...
  14. Abbie Whitlock

    Training Contract Interview - How Bad Did it Go?

    Hello! Of course - I've been in your position countless times before, so I totally get it! That approach is a really healthy way to look at it - interviews always feel more intense in the moment, but with a bit of distance you can see things more clearly. It's completely normal to overthink...
  15. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    No problem at all! I think this will differ from firm to firm, but I've found that most of the ones I have completed were untimed. I would say it is still useful to complete practice tests under timed conditions just in case! :)
  16. Abbie Whitlock

    Tips on how to study for multiple exams

    Hi! It's great that you're thinking about this early, and planning makes a huge difference! Balancing three exams can feel like a lot, but with a plan it is completely manageable. A study plan will be very dependent on your individual working style, but I'll share some general tips that can...
  17. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I would try not to worry, as those are really minor mistakes and are unlikely to hurt your application. Whilst I don't know too much about Covington, I'm sure they'll focus on your overall answers and motivations more than some tiny admin slips! You could email the graduate recruitment...
  18. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi! That's a really good question, and this section can definitely be a bit confusing because it overlaps with other parts of the application form. For this question, they're giving you space to show more of your personality and achievements beyond academics and formal work experience. It's...
  19. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! That's a great question! For this Fieldfisher question, they're not necessarily looking for a list of achievements but for authentic reflection. The key is to connect something personal from your background or experiences to qualities that would make you thrive during the insight scheme...
  20. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I totally get how you're feeling - even last cycle, I was shocked by how many firms had switched to Cappfinity or similar SJTs, and it seems to be an even larger number this year! They can definitely feel overwhelming at first, but as you do more of them the format becomes a bit easier...

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