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Search results

  1. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I'd say that it's perfectly fine to discuss an AI-powered TV show if the article focuses on the business and commercial aspects - for example, how it's funded, produced, monetised, or its impact on the entertainment industry. That would make it relevant as a commercial news story as you...
  2. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! I'd definitely agree with other forum users - if there isn't a separate extracurriculars section or questions that ask for it, it's perfectly fine to include them in the work experience section. However, I would limit this to extra-curriculars that are 'structured' (i.e. not hobbies)...
  3. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Of course, no problem at all!! Since client emails are such a common format in written exercises, it's definitely worth getting comfortable with how to approach them! A few things that I kept in mind when preparing: Understand the Purpose and Audience Before you start writing, clarify who you...
  4. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! Try not to worry too much - three days for a single application isn't unusual at all! A good-quality application can take quite a bit of time, especially if you're tailoring your answers and revising them to ensure their clear and consistent. It's actually a really great sign that you're...
  5. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! There are many different formats a written exercise can take, which can make it challenging to prepare for them all. In the past, I've had to produce reports, legal notes, and memos, among others. However, client emails (and internal emails to supervisors) tend to be some of the most...
  6. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I've quoted a previous post I have made with some general advice for written exercises - I hope it assists! Best of luck with the Dechert written exercise :)
  7. Abbie Whitlock

    Terrible A-level results first time round. How detrimental?

    Hello! Your first set of A-Level's shouldn't hold you back too much with most firms, especially since you have shown strong academic progression - going from resits (AAB) to a 2:1 from a Russell Group uni and a Distinction on the PGDL. Many firms focus on your final grades and overall...
  8. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Congratulations both - such a fantastic achievement!! Best of luck with the semi-final! :)
  9. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi! The online assessment is the next stage of the application process - it is not automatic :)
  10. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    No worries! I totally get that (and I was the same when applying!), so always feel free to ask - that's what we are here for :)
  11. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! Congratulations on reaching the written exercise stage! I haven't previously completed a written exercise for Dechert specifically, but I have shared some general advice that I have given on written exercises in case it is helpful! Practice timed writing - pick a 30-45 minute slot, read...
  12. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I think it would be fine to discuss other experiences briefly in the context of the main experience (such as the insight day) - particularly if it is important to frame your overall motivations. However, as the question asks you to focus on a specific personal experience, I would make...
  13. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! Great question! You don’t have to go into a full solution, but it can be good to briefly mention at the end of your answer how firms might respond to or manage that challenge. It shows that you’re thinking proactively rather than just identifying the problems! For example, if you talk...
  14. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! Yes, I’d say it’s definitely acceptable to ask! I completed a vacation scheme last cycle that did not explicitly state they covered accommodation - however, when I emailed to ask for accommodation recommendations, they offered to contribute towards it. Some firms will say no, but it is...
  15. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi! I think this really depends on the qualities and skills that you can genuinely support with your own experiences. Rather than trying to fit a generic list, it’s best to look at the skills and values that the firm emphasises on its website and trainee profiles and then reflect on which of...
  16. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! From my understanding, you’re right that the video interview is likely to stick quite closely to those three categories - so instead of the classic ‘Why Law’ or ‘Why White & Case’ questions, you might get something that touches on similar themes but is framed around the role or...
  17. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! Great question - I think a bit of both! You will naturally touch on points from your application as those are your genuine reasons, and they’re unlikely to have changed! However, it is good to build on them rather than just repeating your application word for word. At the AC, it is...
  18. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Amazing news - huge congratulations to you both!! Your hardwork is truly paying off, and I hope you celebrate well 🥳
  19. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi! I think it’s probably best to say HSF Kramer in full. Whilst I’m sure it wouldn’t be an automatic rejection if you said HSF, it’s better to be on the safe side! :)
  20. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi! I think you’re right that ‘commercial litigation’ itself is not considered a client sector - it’s more of a practice area. Client sectors tend to refer to the industries the firm serves (e.g. financial services or real estate). I have linked the sectors page for DLA Piper for an extensive...

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