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    Hi all :)

    Hi Oyinfayo! Congratulations on completing a vacation scheme at Osborne Clarke - they are a fantastic firm! I know how disheartening it can be not to convert a vacation scheme. I completed three vacation schemes this year, and did not manage to convert any of them (for a variety of reasons)...
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    What to do in first year of law university?

    Hello! Congratulations on getting into Exeter! First year is a really great time to explore without too much pressure. As 3000to1shoteverytime mentioned, there are not many first-year schemes available, so you won't necessarily have to start applying for these things straight away. I would...
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    Should I sit SQE 1 before securing a training contract offer?

    Hi KickenK5 Congratulations on finishing your SQE Prep Course and Masters! This is a really great question, and one that a lot of people are considering at the moment. I think that there are pros and cons either way, and ultimately, what matters most is whether you feel comfortable sitting the...
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    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi JasmineM9! I totally get what you mean! It feels tricky to draft Open Day applications because you may not necessarily know much about the firm yet. I don't think there is necessarily a rule of thumb in terms of structure, and many different approaches could work well. I think either of...
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    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi Sharan I know that the distinction between strengths-based questions and competencies can be confusing, as there is definitely some overlap! I'll go over what I would usually do in this situation, but I don't think there is necessarily one set way to approach these questions :) Building on...
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    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

    Hi RaniaH062002 I think you can take many different approaches to the work experience section in applications, but depending on the word limit, I would try and tackle each experience using the STAR method if possible to show reflection rather than just description. For example, I would...

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