TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2023-24

[BM99]

I didn't get that email. Strange

Same I didn't get anything

 

[Heartofglass]

Do i assume freshfields PFO after not hearing back after WG?

I don't think we should. I remember some ppl only getting their WG on Tuesday and they should get 3 days to complete it (which mean the dl is tomorrow morning.) Maybe Freshfields is waiting for those ppl result before getting back to us

 

[kcr]

What do you mean by response? Is it the holding email?

Online assessment invite.

 

[Legalitaly]

Is the akin test automatic? Any tips for the test if anyone has any!

Hi! I’ve just received the online test invite too! Can you share a little bit how it is, how you prepared etc.?

 

[Legalitaly]

Just received an online test invite from Akin! Can anyone please share how they prepared for it, how it works etc? Any recommendations of any sort are welcome!!

 

[ia1234555]

Akin PFO. Genuinely heartbroken

This was me last week

 

[ia1234555]

Is anyone still waiting for Latham spring lol

Is anyone still waiting for Latham spring lol

yup

 

[laby201]

HSF AC!! Cannot believe it, so happy!

 

[addy2004]

HSF AC!! Cannot believe it, so happy!

Wow well done! When did you apply if you don’t mind me asking?

 

[IwantaVacSchemePlz]

Not BM sending me six reminders to apply in the space of 1 minute for their spring VS ahahaha

EDIT: now 9

 

[aspiringsolicitor2000]

Not BM sending me six reminders to apply in the space of 1 minute for their spring VS ahahahaA

Same! I have also already applied last month. Is this worrying?

 

[lawtrainee]

For some reason my Akin response was in my spam folder (hasn’t happened before with other firms) so make sure to check there if you’re waiting to hear back!

Thank you - my response was in my junk folder too!

 

[sxw517]

Not BM sending me six reminders to apply in the space of 1 minute for their spring VS ahahaha

EDIT: now 9

BM Buggin out

 

[lawtrainee]

for those who completed the Akin test, how long after did it take to receive the TI?

 

[IwantaVacSchemePlz]

Same! I have also already applied last month. Is this worrying?

ur probs good the system is clearly bugging out hahahaha

 

[law2022x]

Hi, was wondering if anyone knows which firms aren't so picky about first year grades? No "legit" ECs, but I was HEAVILY influenced by someone whom I was in a toxic relationship with and wasn't studying as I should've, and I was also constantly going through mental battles. I had two horrendous grades of the five exams I took. Truly, truly horrendous. I did several legal work experiences back to back during the summer, and am involved in many clubs and societies. Feeling incredibly discouraged. Where on earth could I even apply to?

I feel you I also bombed my first year (2.2) because of an awful relationship too and I would say American firms post-graduation seem to care less about my marks but could be because I eventually got a 2.1. I think don't waste your time on Slaughter & May at least (they're the most elitist and worst imo) and try your best to get a 2.1 overall then you will be fine. In the meantime, apply for US firms for sure they tend to take a more holistic look at apps from my experience at least.

 

[laby201]

Wow well done! When did you apply if you don’t mind me asking?

Thank you! I submitted my app on the deadline and believe I sat the test on the 10th December.

 

[vecna]

Congratulations! Very well done!

In terms of tips, I have talked to some friends who did the assessment last year and they said:

• Do your thorough research on the firm and always be able to speak on why you want to join the firm. This should include everything you find interesting or relevant about the firm.
• Make your motivation to join the firm obvious and highlight how training at the firm will be a much better fit for you than training at any other firm. This is something that a friend emphasised a lot, and it means that you should be able to pick and choose aspects of the training at the firm that appeals to you and makes sense to your way of learning or approaching a situation.
• Be very commercially aware. The article that they often give to the interviewees is a commercial piece of article and the assessment is a way for you to show how well you deal with commercial news. They do not want a know-it-all, but someone that is very teachable, curious and eager to learn so try to show these skills by summarising the article to the best of your ability and finding links to things you have read or studied and interrogate yourself on how this might affect the business world, the legal sector as a whole, and finally the firm itself.
• Be extremely personable but very professional as soon as you get into the office. My friend highlighted how it might be very intimidating especially because they ask you to leave your phone somewhere and it feels like you are going to war in a way, but do not see it like that. Take it as an opportunity to experience some time at a fair that interests you and a chance to get to know the lawyers working there and their personalities.

I hope these helps and good luck with the assessment!

This is incredibly helpful, thank you so much for taking the time to collate this advice!

 

[Ghassen]

anyone else get the "still reviewing scores & will get back by end of jan" email from akin?

Yes I got the same. I did my test in Christmas period and still waiting, while others did it after me and got rejected or invited for TI. What does this mean ?

 

[hopefultrainee888]

Yes I got the same. I did my test in Christmas period and still waiting, while others did it after me and got rejected or invited for TI. What does this mean ?

no idea! i did mine during the same period as well