TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[patternteddybear]

How did you find the assessment? I have heard its harder than the watson

It’s really difficult, but trusted my gut and went with what seemed right. Definitely do the practice questions that they provide access to beforehand

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Applying for Hogan Lovells direct TC and currently struggling with this one question: tell us about any open days and events that you have attended in the legal sector (250 words).

It's been 2 years since I've graduated from uni and since I've started working, I've never had the chance to attend any more recent events. The last law firm open day/event i've gone to was in my second year of uni.

What exactly is the firm looking from this question? Meaningful reflection of the events?But what exactly can I write about -- please may I get some pointers?

Also because my attendance at these events were so long ago, are they still considered relevant?

Hi @jobhuntwarrior

Absolutely, you should feel free to mention these events! It might seem like they were a while ago, but that really doesn’t matter. The question doesn’t limit how far back you can go, so it’s perfectly fine to include all the relevant events you’ve attended. There’s also no need to mention specific dates. I would just focus on the experiences themselves. When approaching this question in my own applications, I tried to lend my answer sufficient structure. For instance, I typically separated my paragraphs by discussing:

1. General open days that helped me build a broader understanding of commercial law. These experiences deepened my interest in specific aspects of the field.
2. Sector-specific events, which introduced me to particular industries and gave me insights into what makes them unique and exciting.
3. Diversity-focused insight days, where I gained valuable perspectives on inclusion and representation within firms, which resonated with me.

Again, no need to worry about dates. Just focus on the insights you gained and how they developed your interest in and understanding of the profession. Hope this helps, and best of luck with your application! 😊

 

[Hskajab]

Nothing received yet! I did see two or three people on this thread who said they had received offers last thursday/friday. Obvs not everybody who receives an offer will be on here of course. Idk if there's still hope atp...sigh (buy hey, maybe they did their ACs at the earliest date)

I had my ac on the 4th november and they said they'd get back to us end of last week or this week - so would wait till the end of the week. I know some people on here received wvs offers a while back and then last week so they may just be doing it in batches

 

[Amma Usman]

Who are Travers Smith's competitors? I see they are very well-balanced and traverse (all pun intended) many practice areas, should I be referring to their practice area/sector competitors or overall competitors?

Hey @Izzy1026. An overall-competitor approach may not be the most appropriate as this will be virtually every law firm with a presence in the regional/ international market. Rather, as you suggested, it’ll be great to include competitors within the same practice-area specification. However, even this may be too generic.

Let me give you an example:

Travers has a good private equity specialty. However, so does Latham and Kirkland. Digging deep, you’ll see that TS has a specialty in mid-market PE deals. Thus, in answering the question, you would compare TS with similar firms that work on mid-market PE deals as well. This will ensure that you hit the nail on the market similarities between firms, enabling you to fashion a response that properly conveys an understanding of the sectoral specialties between firms.

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

@Jessica Booker @Jaysen @Andrei Radu @Shahana

Hi team,

I hope you’re well. I’ve reached out to both Shahana and Jessica about upgrading my bronze subscription to gold, but I haven’t yet received an update. I understand you’re likely handling a high volume of requests, but I wanted to confirm a few details before making any additional purchases.

If I purchase the application review pack, will I be able to submit my applications directly for review, or will this also require approval similar to the gold subscription upgrade? I’d like to ensure that I’ll be able to proceed with reviews smoothly, especially as I’m a bit concerned by the delay in processing my subscription upgrade.

Thank you for your help, and I look forward to hearing from you soon

Hiya @gazdgazd11

Thanks so much for reaching out, and I’m sorry for the delay! Shahana will be handling your upgrade shortly, so you should be all set soon.

For the application review pack, you’ll be able to submit your applications directly for review without needing any extra approval once you’ve purchased it. This should make the process smooth and straightforward for you! Wishing you the best of luck with your applications, and feel free to reach out if you need any more help along the way. 😊

 

[Amma Usman]

Simmons AC for Summer! Any insights will be helpful as contains a lot of exercises. @Andrei Radu @Jessica Booker @Amma Usman @anyone

Hey @Soprano , I have made an earlier post on this, which I’ve linked below. And congratulations on the AC!

Hey @FLOWERYELLOW2002 , thanks for your question. I haven’t had any experience with Simmons in particular, but here are a few tips from the specific points you’ve mentioned:

Inbox Exercise

The inbox exercise simulates a real-life work scenario where you'll be managing multiple tasks and deadlines, often under time pressure. Typically, you'll be reviewing emails and responding appropriately. This could involve prioritizing client queries, drafting responses, and even summarizing complex information into clear, actionable advice.

In some cases, you might also be asked to write an electronic memo summarizing your thoughts and findings based on attached documents or client instructions. It’s important to maintain a professional tone and address client concerns clearly. I would suggest focusing on being concise yet thorough—clients value clarity and precision in legal advice.

In my experience, law firms want to see how well you manage your workload, respond to client needs, and communicate effectively. A good way to prepare is by practicing drafting succinct emails and memos, perhaps even setting a timer to simulate the time pressure you may face on the day.


Client Discussion

A client discussion exercise could involve advising a client on the surrounding circumstances of their case, often in the presence of a senior lawyer or partner. This task will test your ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly and efficiently. The key here is to ensure you fully understand the client’s objectives—what they want to achieve from the matter—and provide tailored advice that addresses those concerns.

The client may ask questions on the spot, so it’s important to stay calm and think on your feet. They’ll be assessing your commercial awareness and understanding of how legal principles apply to business situations. Therefore, brushing up on recent commercial cases or trends in the sector can be beneficial. Whether you're discussing contract negotiations, regulatory issues, or disputes, having a broad understanding of the legal and business implications will help you shine.

If you’re preparing for a transactional firm, expect more corporate-focused discussions—think mergers, acquisitions, and private equity. For more contentious firms, the discussion may lean towards litigation or dispute resolution. Being aware of both areas is crucial, as even transactional clients will appreciate your awareness of potential disputes, and vice versa.

Case Study

Case studies at law firm assessment centres tend to focus on contemporary issues in the commercial world. You might be given an article on a specific industry, like energy, or a broader topic such as private equity or mergers and acquisitions (M&A). The task will usually involve analyzing the situation and advising on potential legal or business solutions. Firms are testing your ability to digest information, think critically, and apply your legal knowledge to real-world scenarios.

For example, in a case study involving M&A, you may need to advise on due diligence, regulatory concerns, or the structure of the deal. In a case centered around energy, you might need to discuss environmental regulations, contract risks, or the impact of geopolitical events. Be sure to structure your analysis logically: identify the key issues, consider possible solutions, and weigh the pros and cons of each option.

In my experience, transactional firms tend to center their case studies on corporate law issues, while contentious firms will have case studies focused more on litigation or regulatory concerns. However, showcasing knowledge of both will help you come across as a well-rounded candidate. It’s essential to demonstrate that you can consider both corporate and contentious aspects—this will highlight your versatility and make you a more attractive prospect.

General Tips

• Research the firm: Know their major practice areas, recent cases, and key clients. It helps to tailor your responses and demonstrate your commercial awareness.
• Time management: These exercises are often time-pressured, so practice managing your time effectively.
• Attention to detail: Commercial law demands precision, so take care in reviewing documents, drafting emails, and delivering advice.
• Clear communication: Whether in written tasks or discussions, make sure your points are clear, concise, and business-oriented.

Hope this helps!

 

[Arbiter141]

Davis Polk Insight Day PFO

4 Open Day applications and 4 PFOs in this cycle.

This particular one hurts cos of the time invested and that I had genuine reasons to want to work at the firm.

Does anyone with particular insight to DPW know if I can apply for the VS this cycle after the rejection, or should I look elsewhere?

Same just got my PFO right now as well (I only applied yesterday a few hours before the deadline). My email also said they would 'encourage me to apply for their vacation scheme'. Did you also get that since I am assuming they sent a generic email to everyone they rejected.

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi guys! a quick question, does anyone know if i can apply to TC and VS for Linklaters in one recruitment cycle or not?

Hi @Tangcy

Yes, you should be able to do so. Although this may need to be updated, I made a short thread on the firms that typically allow you to apply for a direct training contract in the same recruitment cycle as an unsuccessful vacation scheme application. When applying for Linklaters' direct training contract, I'd also suggest thinking carefully about how you can evidence your experience with and interest in a legal career, particularly since their direct training contract application allows you to include work experience entries as well. Best of luck with the application!

 

[studentdelaw786]

Same just got my PFO right now as well (I only applied yesterday a few hours before the deadline). My email also said they would 'encourage me to apply for their vacation scheme'. Did you also get that since I am assuming they sent a generic email to everyone they rejected.

Yeah I applied on the 7th, and I got that email too, so it’s defo generic.

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi, for the question "Please choose a recent (less than 12 months) development in UK/European news. How are such developments relevant for Skadden’s clients? (max 250)", does it need to focus specifically on a new regulation, or would discussing commercial trends also be appropriate?

Hi @josiemusgra

Just following up on this It doesn’t need to be a regulation specifically. You could also focus on a distinct business, political, or legal event, like a major court decision or a significant business move that’s been economically significant. These types of events often make for clearer, discrete news stories and are typically easier to place within the 12-month window that's mentioned in the question.

If you’re thinking about discussing a trend, just a quick word of caution: trends generally develop over longer periods, so it might be challenging to highlight one that’s specifically emerged within the past 12 months. Hope this helps, and good luck with your application!

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

@Jessica Booker @Ram Sabaratnam @Andrei Radu On the vantage platform or the all hires platform that firms use re work experience, should I be putting in bullet points for the details of my role or explaining my responsibilities with more granularity? There’s more to talk about with my full time jobs than I can fit into 250 words if I go into detail so I thought it best to bullet point the major responsibilities and achievements?

Generally, I would recommend prose over bullet points. If you have a lot to talk about, focus on the most complex responsibilities or those that were most challenging.

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

just submitted my cv for SM, but realised theres a mistake with one of the dates, as i have that i was a brand ambassador in my first year instead of my second (current) year, any advice on what to do - just don't want HR to think I have re-taken a year (as you can't be brand ambassador for this firm in your first year).

I would personally leave it - I don’t think the firm would assume you resat your year just because of the dates of your campus ambassador role.

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

@Jessica Booker apologies for chasing, the deadline is in 10 days therefore I want to apply asap

I don’t know the specifics of each programme, so I would check each vacancy you are interested in as they state what year you have to be in on the vacancy listing.

 

[Chelsea101]

Hey guys, what is the best way to approach asking a firm for accomodation support or suggest places to stay for the duration of the vac scheme? I do not have any family in LDN and not sure what to do as the VS is coming up fairly soon. Hotel prices are fairly steep also. Thanks!

 

[Gday33]

Mayer Brown LGBT open day invite 👌🏻 let’s hope this goes smoother than my Linklaters one…

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

@Jessica Booker @Ram Sabaratnam @Andrei Radu On the vantage platform or the all hires platform that firms use re work experience, should I be putting in bullet points for the details of my role or explaining my responsibilities with more granularity? There’s more to talk about with my full time jobs than I can fit into 250 words if I go into detail so I thought it best to bullet point the major responsibilities and achievements?

Hiya @Aspiringsolicitor01

Just adding to what @Jessica Booker said, I’d also recommend using prose instead of bullet points here, as it gives you the chance to add brief reflections on the impact and significance of your key tasks and achievements. For example, you could highlight what you enjoyed about particular roles or mention specific skills you developed through certain experiences. I particularly enjoyed using these entries to highlight certain transferable skills that would signal or indicate my strengths as a trainee.

That said, this can come down to personal style. I’ve met applicants who have succeeded with a more straightforward, factual approach, simply listing what they did. But if you have the space, weaving in a bit of reflection can really help your experience stand out. Hope this helps, and good luck! 😊

 

[member7830]

does anyone know is Latham is rolling?

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Morning all, i received an email today from a firm I interviewed at over summer. After an assessment day I was rejected. As someone who accepted a place has now dropped out they’ve invited some of their previous interviewees for a follow up interview.

Do you know what I should expect? Is it just to check if I would fit in culturally or Will some of the other stuff covered in an AC come up?

Interesting dynamics because they’re potentially putting you through the effort and disappointment twice… is there a decent chance of converting to a TC?

Hiya @Pawlaw

Congratulations on being invited back! I'd be interested to know what @Jessica Booker would say, but I’d suggest revisiting any feedback you received after your summer assessment. I think this would be a good move, helping you prepare for the upcoming interview and demonstrating that you've taken action on any areas for improvement they initially identified.

The likelihood of converting this to a training contract can depend on several factors, including how many other candidates they’re bringing back. But the fact that they’re re-inviting you is a positive sign and, I think, indicates that they saw potential in you! That's something you should definitely be confident about

It might also be useful to do some fresh research on the firm to bring a fresh perspective on your motivations for joining. I'd also recommend this thread, which covers general interview preparation tips. Best of luck with the interview - I hope it goes much better than you expect!

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi @Andrei Radu @Jessica Booker @Ram Sabaratnam !

Any advice on how to tackle the following question (and how I should divide the word count)?: "Please choose a recent (less than 12 months) development in UK/European news. How are such developments relevant for Skadden’s clients?"

I was thinking of writing 1-2 sentences outlining the recent development. Then, I am not sure about whether I should discuss why I find the development I chose interesting because usually the 'commercial' question like this in an app would explicitly state "a news story that interests you" in the question, but this is not the case in here. So, should I spend the rest of my word count simply outlining how the news/developments would affect Skadden's clients and how Skadden would get involved as a result?

Thank you!

Hiya @KBanana

Unsurprisingly, I'm in agreement with what Jess said here! You’re also absolutely right - you don’t need to explain why the story is interesting to you, since the question doesn’t ask for it. That said, I've generally always added a sentence or two about why a story caught my attention, as I think it often added some reflective depth to my answer.

I also think your plan/approach to the question sounds solid! Outlining the development in a couple of sentences, then briefly mentioning why it stands out to you, and finally using most of the word count to cover the commercial implications for Skadden’s clients is a good way to address the question. Best of luck, and feel free to reach out if any other questions come up. You’ve got this! 😊

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi @Amma Usman, @Ram Sabaratnam and @Andrei Radu

I trust you are all well.

I am applying to Katten and am trying to understand how to answer this question.

What experience and skills do you have that will make you an excellent solicitor at Katten?
I am struggling to understand how specific I should be. Would you suggest looking for keywords used by the firm's marketing team?

Thank you in advance for your help.

Hiya @AS24

I'd suggest that you don’t necessarily need to rely heavily on the firm’s marketing materials, but it could be helpful to review Katten’s values as a starting point. To be clear, you don’t have to centre your entire answer around these values, but they can provide some guidance on the traits and skills that the firm might prioritise.

In approaching this question, it might be useful think about the broader skills that would allow someone to thrive as a trainee at firm such as Katten. For instance, based on a quick google of the firm's training programme, it seems they have a relatively small trainee intake. This likely means trainees will have to shoulder substantial responsibility early on, working closely with partners, senior associates, and even clients. Reflecting on this, what skills or experiences do you think would help you thrive in this environment? Additionally, you could focus on their key practice areas and explain how your background or skills would enable you to excel in the types of matters where Katten is especially well-regarded. Best of luck with your application, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions! 😊