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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! A lot of firms will use similar types of software, but the exact ones are likely to differ from firm to firm. The ones that I have encountered as a paralegal and during vacation schemes were: iManage (document management) NetDocuments (document management) HighQ (document management) Clio...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,188
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! I'd try not to panic - one small slip-up like that isn't always fatal, especially if it was in a minor section and the rest of your application is strong and tailored to Arnold & Porter. The graduate recruitment team may be willing to overlook a single mistake if everything else in your...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,186
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! Congratulations on the Slaughter and May HK VS - that's a great achievement!! In terms of whether to mention it in applications for VS in London, I think it depends on how you frame it. The VS itself is impressive and demonstrates capability, but firms will want to understand your...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,112
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! They're definitely very similar in nature! I've found that a good way to think about it is the executive summary tells the reader what they need to know upfront, while the conclusion reinforces what they should take away at the end. Executive Summary Brief and high-level States the...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,111
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! They do seem similar at first glance, but you can separate them by focusing on motivation vs long-term aspirations. 1. "What motivates you to pursue a career as a commercial solicitor, and why do you see Akin as the right place to begin that journey?" Here, you want to explain: Why...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,109
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! This can vary between firms, but it's often possible! After securing a Summer VS, I contacted the early careers team at another firm I had to applied to for a Summer VS and asked whether I could switch to the Spring scheme instead. They agreed, and I ultimately received a Spring VS offer...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,086
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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Ask 3 future trainees ANYTHING!
Hi! I always used to struggle with video interviews, and it was often the stage where I would not be progressed as well - I think it is quite common for a lot of people to struggle with them! A few tips that might help when approaching them: Practice recording yourself: this was the main thing...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #18
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! In my view, it's not necessary at all - plenty of people secure vacation schemes and TCs without paralegal experience. It can be helpful for building legal awareness or proving commitment to the profession, but it is definitely not required in order to be successful. In many of my vacation...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,063
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Not a silly question at all! If Legal Cheek are holding another fair in March 2026, firms will still attend even if deadlines for that round have closed. They often use these events to engage with future applicants for the next cycle, so it can still be useful for 2026/2027 recruitment...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,060
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! I'd approach these questions by making your answers targeted, evidence-driven, and personal. I've set out below how I would approach each one - hopefully it helps as a starting point! :) 1. Why Paul, Weiss? I'd focus on specificity. Make sure that instead of discussing generic points...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,058
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
As someone currently studying for the SQE, knowing a thing or two about balance sheets might be more helpful in law than you think! 🥲 Best of luck to you both with your exams!! :)- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #1,124
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Great question - it can definitely feel overwhelming, and I remember having no idea where to start! You're making the right move by focusing on certain areas rather than trying to gather information on absolutely every area of the firm. There isn't necessarily a strict criteria you should...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #8,016
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Yes, you can absolutely use that additional information section to clarify both areas - it's there for anything you feel hasn't been captured anywhere else in the form. If the visa question only gives a Yes / No response with no space to expand, it's perfectly reasonable to briefly explain...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,978
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! I have quoted my original post on this question - if you have any further questions, just shout! :)- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,977
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! I would say that font size 10 is slightly too small - I would aim for at least size 11 if possible, as it makes it easier to read for the graduate recruitment team :)- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,975
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! That's a really interesting VI question, and I'd say that firms mainly want to see that you understand how the profession is evolving and that you're thinking about your role within that future. A strong answer would usually cover a mix of technology, client expectations, and the changing...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,944
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Yes, it is definitely still worth applying! Whilst they operate under a rolling process, they review any application that is submitted before the deadline (and often receive the majority of applications in the last few days) and there is plenty of opportunity to still be progressed. If you...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,941
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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How many cycles before giving up?
Hello! Firstly - massive credit to you for sticking with the process for 5 cycles. That alone shows determination, resilience, and a real desire to secure a TC. These qualities are exactly what the process demands, and they're often what ultimately leads people to success, even if the journey...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #3
- Forum: My Training Contract Journey
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Just to add to Andrei's advice, I thought I'd share my past experiences with strengths-based interview questions! For these types of of questions, the important element is to answer truthfully and be yourself. They are typically looking to see how you would handle specific problems, your...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,920
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! I wouldn't assume a rejection based on the timeframe - I waited over a month in between completing my Reed Smith online assessment and receiving an assessment centre invite! There are various factors that go in to when invites are sent out, and the application window is still open - for...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,919
- Forum: Applications Discussion