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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Great question - these two prompts do overlap a bit, but you can use them to highlight different things! For the "Why a legal career at ___?" question I'd focus on the firm itself - what genuinely attracts you to them. This could include: 1. Practice areas, sector focus, or recent deals...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,825
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Congratulations on getting the Summer VS offer - that's an amazing achievement! I was in a similar position last year, so I can share what I did and overall what my advice would be. Firms often have some flexibility, so you can absolutely ask about moving to the Spring scheme. This is what...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,816
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Congratulations on the AC invite!! I'm happy to share a few general tips that might be useful! With 30 minutes to prepare, I would aim to define one key message you want them to take from your presentation, and then build 2-3 clear points around it. You don't need loads of detail - clarity...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,814
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! I'd say it's completely fine to talk about the same sector in both questions - in fact, it can make your application feel more focused, as long as you add new depth rather than repeating yourself. In the "Why firm?" answer, you'd frame the sector as one reason you're drawn to them (e.g...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,787
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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My (ongoing) TC Journey
Hi! Thank you for sharing this update - it's really lovely to see your motivation! It's so easy to get disheartened in this process, especially when a rejection comes down to something like an online assessment rather than the application you poured time into (and I can't imagine trying to...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #13
- Forum: My Training Contract Journey
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! I'd say it is a sector-focused question, but you're not overthinking it - I think it is a good idea to link it back to Bird & Bird as well! The aim is to show you understand an industry they specialise in and can assess the commercial implications for clients and the firm. I would pick one...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,783
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! I would agree with other users and say that since the NRF guidance focuses on why you want to join them, what excites you about their programme, and how your skills fit their values, you don't need a long "why law" section. That said, it might be useful to incorporate a bit of your...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,781
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! I would encourage you to still apply - whilst it is advantageous to apply earlier for a rolling deadline, the applications don't close for V&E until January so there is still plenty of time! The most important factor is submitting a strong and tailored application, that demonstrates...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,780
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! I have quoted some posts below that might be helpful in terms of preparing for video interviews, so hopefully they are a useful starting point! I would also recommend this forum post from Andrei, which is really great for competency style questions! In terms of preparation, with a 5-day...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,709
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! My stance on this was to include it in any Direct TC applications, but not for any vacation scheme applications. The reasoning for this was that I wanted to convey that I would have experienced that vacation scheme by the time that I would potentially be completing the AC (or later...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,707
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! For Q2, as the question specifically asks you to select one articles from the DLA Piper Insights page on a client sector, it's best to choose something that clearly sits within a recognised sector area (e.g. tech or real estate). You can explore a wider industry trend within that...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,705
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! You don't need to pick a story that Trowers & Hamlins has directly worked on - it can be a deal they were involved in, but it is more likely to be a broader commercial development that connects their sectors or strategic strengths. The key is showing you understand the news, why it matters...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,663
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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Module Results Question (How Detrimental)
Hello! If the form asks for full academic history, then you've definitely done the right thing by disclosing the failed modules. Most firms won't automatically filter you out for early setbacks, especially when you've gone on to achieve an 89 in your LLB and a Distinction in your LLM - that is...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #2
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! No problem, I'm glad it is useful! :) An "opportunity" doesn't have to be something such as a brand-new practice area. It can absolutely be something that builds on Ashurst's existing strengths, especially if the regulatory reform you've identified will create increased demand for advice...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,662
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! You're definitely thinking along the right lines! The key is to use your story to show why you and Macfarlanes are a good match, rather than just describing the firm back to them. They want to get a sense of who you are, what has shaped you, and how that connects to what makes Macfarlanes...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,660
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! A few resources below that I used / might be useful: Definitive Guide to Law Firm Case Studies (something I found super useful last cycle!) TCLA Written Exercises (a good way to practice if you are able to pay to access resources) Some law firms upload example written exercises online -...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,659
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! This wouldn't be discouraged at all - in fact, I really would encourage you to talk about it! It's a feature that is unique to Reed Smith, and if you can tie this to other elements of your background (i.e. your working style, previous experiences, etc.), this can help make your answer...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,658
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Timed written exercises are all about clarity, structure, and time management. A few practical tips that I used that could help: Plan first (even if just 2-3 minutes): I'd skim the prompt, underline any key tasks, and decide what outcome the client / supervisor wants. A short bullet-point...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,606
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! Good questions! For a written exercise, I always aimed for a professional but not overly formal tone. For sign-offs, I'd say you can use: Client email: Kind regards / Yours sincerely (if very formal) Supervisor / partner: Kind regards / Best wishes So yes, you can adjust slightly based...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,603
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! I would still encourage you to apply - even if applications have been open for a while, there is still a little while left until they close! The most important factor is submitting a strong and tailored application, rather than necessarily when you submit it. If you feel you would...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,602
- Forum: Applications Discussion