TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2023-24

[SoonToBeTrainee]

Non-law applying to VSs for the first time. I've sent off 20 applications and secured 1 VS, 7 rejections so far. Have I sent off enough applications?

If you've already got a VS then you're doing something right. Some people are on their 3rd+ cycle and still haven't even got a VS. Congrats!

 

[RonRod13]

Non-law applying to VSs for the first time. I've sent off 20 applications and secured 1 VS, 7 rejections so far. Have I sent off enough applications?

Nice congrats on your offer, where was it from? 20 is good number id say

 

[I’m_Batman]

Non-law applying to VSs for the first time. I've sent off 20 applications and secured 1 VS, 7 rejections so far. Have I sent off enough applications?

Who is your VS offer from? That is good - solid TC chance there.

Apps no is hard to answer - some people have a scattergun approach and some will tailor 7/8 apps heavily for each cycle. Quality matters a lot more and you only need 1 offer. It depends on how much time you have and if you can send off substantive apps in that time to give you the best shot.

 

[futuretrainee2024]

Non-law applying to VSs for the first time. I've sent off 20 applications and secured 1 VS, 7 rejections so far. Have I sent off enough applications?

You've got a VS already and you have yet to hear from 13, so I'd say you're absolutely fine. I know most people apply to around 10

 

[xMontmorency]

Any insights into Freshfields' AC?

 

[I’m_Batman]

Yeah for e.g. I applied to 7 places this cycle. 4 rejections and 2 ACs. Have an AC next week and had one this week.

 

[ADKM]

Can I use an example from my work experience which I wrote on my application form to answer a question that might come up during VI along the lines of ‘Describe a time when you needed to develop an unconventional approach to solve an existing problem.’ I’m worried this could lead to repetition. @Jessica Booker @axelbeugre thoughts?

 

[s9111]

How long does it typically take to hear back after a Vac Scheme AC? Had mine on Monday, not heard anything yet

 

[axelbeugre]

Can I use an example from my work experience which I wrote on my application form to answer a question that might come up during VI along the lines of ‘Describe a time when you needed to develop an unconventional approach to solve an existing problem.’ I’m worried this could lead to repetition. @Jessica Booker @axelbeugre thoughts?

I think you can but if you are worried about repetition, I would personally try to find another example as good as the one you are thinking of and go with that one to be safe than sorry. I struggled with finding good examples too when I was applying and I often wanted to use the same experiences as examples but trying to find new examples is great even for you as it allows to reflect on your journey and your true motivation to become a commercial solicitor. Having said that, I personally do not believe that using the same example will hinder your chances of success!

 

[Pennine Valley]

Dentons rejection post app applied deadline.

 

[futuretrainee2024]

Dentons rejection post app applied deadline.

sameeee. I got to the VI last year but I applied earlier, so either I applied too late or my application wasn't the best this year (not sure how as my one last year was littered with errors and wasn't as specific). Either way we moveeeeeee

 

[ljms]

sameeee. I got to the VI last year but I applied earlier, so either I applied too late or my application wasn't the best this year (not sure how as my one last year was littered with errors and wasn't as specific). Either way we moveeeeeee

It's a numbers game. There's no logic to any of this. Important not to overthink it.

 

[Sunshinepink]

I just completed the Reed Smith assessment and got the feedback report which was better than I anticipated (I was really nervous) BUT for the first two questions in the VI my laptop was glitching. I realized it was because my laptop was full so I unplugged my laptop but I am worried that when they watch the first two back, it won't be clear enough. Shall i email recruitment or leave it and just pray for the best? @Jessica Booker @axelbeugre

 

[Sunshinepink]

Can I pm you? Just want to ask how your test went!

Yes, of course! However, I do not have my feedback report just yet. They confirmed that they have my score but I don't know how I did

 

[Sunshinepink]

Those that have done the Reed Smith assessment, I was wondering if you knew whether they can see your screen ie if I wanted to make notes on word, can they see them? Also if I am using my phone as a calculator is that a problem? Finally, I was trying to work out if you can go in and out of the assessment as they say it doesn't need to be done in one sitting?

They can see you. I was using a notebook and my calculator but I would show the camera, my notebook with my calculations before I moved to the next question so they don't assume I was cheating. After you complete the first half, I think you can leave.

 

[ljms]

I just completed the Reed Smith assessment and got the feedback report which was better than I anticipated BUT for the first two questions in the VI my laptop was glitching. I realized it was because my laptop was full so i unplugged my laptop but I am worried that when they watch the first two back, it won't be clear enough. @Jessica Booker @axelbeugre

Do you have to do the test and then go straight into the VI, or can you do them separately?

 

[Ash2323]

completed the TW test in early Dec, not heard back even though people got ac invites yday... shall i assume a pfo? :/

 

[Sunshinepink]

Do you have to do the test and then go straight into the VI, or can you do them separately?

You can do them separately

 

[Untilwinter]

Dentons rejection post app applied deadline.

Sorry. Hope other firm applications work out for you. Could I ask if this was for London spring?

 

[Jessica Booker]

Can I use an example from my work experience which I wrote on my application form to answer a question that might come up during VI along the lines of ‘Describe a time when you needed to develop an unconventional approach to solve an existing problem.’ I’m worried this could lead to repetition. @Jessica Booker @axelbeugre thoughts?

This is fine - it’s fine to use the same themes from an application form and I wouldn’t expect your work experience section to detail one situation where you took an alternative approach. It could have a brief reference - but I wouldn’t expect the same level of detail compared to you explaining it in an interview.