TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[lawyersum]

Hey guys, what are your opinions on pursuing a master's degree? i've got a solid academic and non-academic background (i.e multiple work experiences, part-time jobs, leadership positions). Funding wise, I anticipate to get relief from some bursaries, so I'm not too worried about that. I want to do it out of genuine interest and the uni has a great history of a startup producing, innovative culture, which I want to get involved in. The only thing is I'm not sure whether a masters is viewed negatively on your application. I mean I will be supplementing my time there with non-academic things to develop my profile further but idk there's a stigma attached around a masters which i keep thinking will negatively impact me. (For context, I'm not an international student). Thoughts and experiences are welcome

 

[trainee4u]

Hey guys, what are your opinions on pursuing a master's degree? i've got a solid academic and non-academic background (i.e multiple work experiences, part-time jobs, leadership positions). Funding wise, I anticipate to get relief from some bursaries, so I'm not too worried about that. I want to do it out of genuine interest and the uni has a great history of a startup producing, innovative culture, which I want to get involved in. The only thing is I'm not sure whether a masters is viewed negatively on your application. I mean I will be supplementing my time there with non-academic things to develop my profile further but idk there's a stigma attached around a masters which i keep thinking will negatively impact me. (For context, I'm not an international student). Thoughts and experiences are welcome

this is asked frequently.

is this a legal masters?

there's no stigma, it just doesn't particularly help.

the main thing is that you are applying for law jobs 2+ years ahead, so should apply for those jobs while doing the masters. do you have an LLB/GDL already? if so the masters is a good way, assuming affordable, to spend time prior to starting a TC, noting that GDL = 1 year, SQE = 1 year.

 

[trainee4u]

I spoke to someone from HR at the firm, and she said that you'll still have to apply for a TC after the vacation scheme. I think it's because the application is quite straightforward.

yes i didn't apply or speaking to them but it did make it reasonably clear that it's intended to help students and career changers specifically understand about a legal career - an outreach effort more than a recruitment process.

no idea about pay though.

 

[Tcmaker]

They mentioned they’d get back within three weeks, but I haven’t heard anything yet. Should I take this as a sign the TC offer isn’t progressing?

 

[x_law2004]

Is anyone still waiting to hear from Perkins coie VS post interview :/