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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! Of course, happy to address your questions!! I can see from recent posts that a few people have received AC invites following the SJT / VI, so I can imagine more people will start hearing back soon! The Winter Scheme doesn't actually take place until the end of February, so there is...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,601
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! That section is usually just a space to add anything about your degree that isn't captured elsewhere in the application. A few things that you might include (and you don't necessarily need to include anything!): Any unusual aspects of your course (e.g. a year abroad, a dissertation, joint...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,547
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Congratulations on getting the final interview - that's amazing news! 🎊 Whilst I haven't been through the Withers process myself, I can share some general tips on how I would prepare for an interview with HR and a partner! 1. Research the firm and Withers' focus I'd refresh your memory...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,546
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! You're not overthinking - that question can read both ways, so the safest and strongest approach is usually to combine the two angles! When firms ask "Why do you want a career in commercial law?", the graduate recruitment team essentially want to understand: 1. Your genuine motivation -...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,524
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! Whilst I'm not 100% sure on the general timelines for HL, I would say that two months is definitely on the longer side - although this could be due to them handling the vacation scheme applications first. If I were in your position, I'd be inclined to send a brief and polite email just to...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #778
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! I can see in previous years (on this thread) that Sullivan & Cromwell hires from their vacation scheme in the first instance, and the direct TC route is typically used if they do not fill all of the spots with the vacation scheme. Whilst this may have changed for this year, I would keep...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #773
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Congratulations on the AC invite!! I have quoted a post below that I gave recently on preparing for an assessment centre at A&O Shearman - whilst I haven't completed one at the firm before, it might help as some more general tips in preparing for the day! In relation to your question on...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,502
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! After having a look at their website, it states that they are hiring for a training contract to start in September 2028. I would therefore assume this is open to graduates, as you are able to start a training contract at that date (however, it might be worth emailing the graduate...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,496
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hello! I would encourage you to apply for whichever scheme suits you best! Even though they have rolling deadlines, the most important factor is whether you submit a strong application, rather than when you submit it. If the Winter / Spring vacation schemes work better for you, I would...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,495
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! There are a few good ways to learn more about a firm's clients, and the best approach usually depends on how public the information is. A few reliable methods that worked for me: Company Website: most firms will highlight their key clients or at least the sectors they work in through case...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,492
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! Whilst I can't say definitively whether more AC invites will be sent out, there were multiple batches sent out when I applied last cycle, so I wouldn't assume a rejection if you haven't heard yet (as I'm sure more will be sent in due course)! :)- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,490
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! Huge congratulations on the AC invite - what an amazing achievement!! :) Your first assessment centre can feel daunting, but try to approach it with confidence. Remember, you’ve been invited because they already believe you have the potential to succeed. Go in with a positive mindset...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,448
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Huge congratulations - you should be super proud!! :) I felt a similar way after my Reed Smith SJT and VI, so I'd definitely agree with the fact that you never know! Best of luck with the AC - you've got this!! 💪 😊- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,444
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! Congratulations on receiving an assessment invite! :) I don't have any particular knowledge of what the firm is looking for skills / experience wise, but I would base this on the competencies and qualities that they highlight as important on their website. I have quoted some posts below...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,443
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
No problem! Yes, I think this is a strong approach. It's natural to have an inclination towards a few specific practice areas, and being open about those interests helps convey authenticity. At the same time, demonstrating an understanding and interest in the firm's broader, sector-focused...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,442
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! Just thought I'd add my perspective to this as someone at Reed Smith - this is a really common issue, so don't feel bad! From the graduate recruitment perspective, as you aren't guaranteed to get a seat in a specific area, it's better to show an 'open minded' attitude towards practice areas...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,392
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! For the first question ("supplementary educational information"), you don't need to write anything close to 500 words. It's really just a space to add factual details that don't fit neatly into the standard fields - these could be things such as extra courses, certificates, study abroad...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,386
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hi! I have received vacation scheme offers (and my DTC offer) from applications that I wrote in one day - however, I still spent a few hours on each of them. I really do think this is something that is dependant on how you work best - for me, I found it easier to get it all done in one day as...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,385
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! Without seeing the specific wording of the question, I couldn't give a definitive answer either way. However, as a generally rule of thumb, I think it is a good idea to strengthen your answer by briefly connecting the development to how Skadden is positioned to help clients - as long as it...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #7,384
- Forum: Applications Discussion
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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
Hey! For the personal summary, its best to strike a balance between your legal experience and the wider qualities you bring, but with a clear emphasis on what's most relevant to the paralegal role. A helpful structure is: A concise opening line about your professional identity: briefly state...- Abbie Whitlock
- Post #695
- Forum: Applications Discussion