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Search results

  1. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi! If you mean before the deadline, then yes that is correct! The Watson Glaser can be completed after the deadline, as long as you complete it by the deadline provided in the test invite :)
  2. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi! That's a great question - 200 words is tight, but you can definitely write a strong answer if you have a clear structure! A good way to start is by briefly showing genuine enthusiasm for Macfarlanes and the opportunity to meet their people in a more personal setting. Then, you could move...
  3. Abbie Whitlock

    TC Journey

    Hey! Thanks for sharing the update - it sounds like you've really taken a step back and thought carefully about your approach, which is never easy but definitely worthwhile! Narrowing your focus to firms you're genuinely interested in will make the whole process feel a lot more purposeful and...
  4. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I would say that it is still worth applying, even if people have received the test invite. Invites to the next stage in the process are usually sent in batches, especially for rolling deadlines, and so the only certain way to not be considered is to not submit an application at all! If...
  5. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! Without seeing the exact wording of the email, I can't say for certain - however, if the email states that you have 7 days from your submission to complete it, I would assume it is fine to complete the test past the application deadline (unless another part of the email implies...
  6. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! Just to add to @londonlawyer's really great advice, I think what the firm is looking for is a short and memorable insight into who you are beyond the obvious things on your CV or application. A good approach is to pick something that: Isn't common knowledge about you (a quirky skill...
  7. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi there! Great question! Commercial awareness is something that lots of candidates worry about, and it was definitely the most puzzling area for me when I was starting to make applications! I can share a few tips that really helped me when I was preparing for commercial awareness questions in...
  8. Abbie Whitlock

    Module I did not perform well in - will it set me back?

    Hi! Congratulations on graduating! 🥳 I wouldn't worry too much about that one module - most firms, especially regional ones, will look at your overall performance rather than zooming in on a single lower grade. As you have a 67% average, this is still really strong and shows consistency...
  9. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! I would check the spam / junk folder of your email, and also double-check that the email address on your AllHires account is spelled correctly and that your inbox isn't filtering it somewhere unexpected! If you've already tried that and still aren't seeing anything, I'd perhaps reach out...
  10. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! Yes, you can definitely mention the Clifford Chance Forage programme as a separate entry - just make sure you frame it as a virtual experience so it's clear it's not the same as in-person work. I referenced completing one of their Forage programmes as a separate entry in the work...
  11. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I don't think it would be a bad idea at all to focus on the energy sector, especially if you feel you can give a stronger and more original answer there. Bird & Bird has a really strong reputation across multiple sectors, not just tech / media, and they'll be looking to see that you've...
  12. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! To add to the fantastic advice above, I would agree that it's not silly to exclusively apply to spring / summer va cschemes. Lots of firms offer the bulk of their opportunities in these windows rather than winter, and if you've got the capacity to do 15-17 good quality applications, that...
  13. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! You don't have to go into detail if you'd prefer not to. Graduate recruitment are much more interested in understanding the impact it had on your studies, and seeing that it was an isolated period. As long as you explain the circumstances clearly in that sense, you won't be expected to...
  14. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    Huge congratulations on securing your TC! 🥳 That's such an inspiring journey, and I'm sure a lot of people will take comfort from your story - especially those who feel like they've left it too late (which it never is!). Wishing you all the best as you get ready to start this new chapter, and...
  15. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! Unfortunately, I don't think there's a set timeframe for when they send out the WG assessments. From what I understand, most firms usually need to check applicants meet the eligibility criteria before releasing the test, so it may be that they haven't had a moment to check this yet...
  16. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! Just to add to @ZNadeem's answer (which I would absolutely agree with!), you can definitely mention things that link to your experiences, but frame them slightly differently. For example, instead of describing a society role in the same way you did under "work experience", you could...
  17. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! I'd say it's fine to reuse parts of your old application, especially since it's unlikely that your core motivation for law and White & Case has changed. Just make sure to update it so it doesn't feel copy-pasted - reflect on new experiences or skills that you've gained over the past two...
  18. Abbie Whitlock

    Road to a TC 2025-26

    Hello! Thank you for sharing this, and I think a thread will be a great way of holding yourself accountable! It takes a lot of courage to put your story out there so openly, and I think that mindset of focusing on what you can control rather than grades is a really useful shift! I can really...
  19. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hello! I totally get what you mean - the timeframe between feedback and the next application round can feel super short. You don't necessarily need huge new experiences to show growth, and what helps is demonstrating that you've reflected on the feedback and taken practical steps to address it...
  20. Abbie Whitlock

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hey! I'd definitely still encourage you to apply. Firms such as HSF Kramer state their academic requirements because they are looking for consistency, but they will also take a holistic view of applications. A couple of 2:2s among an otherwise strong transcript full of 2:1s and firsts isn't...

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