TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Deleted member 37508]

Fieldfisher test invite.

 

[yasmars]

Fieldfisher test invite.

Congrats! When did you submit your application

 

[Amma Usman]

@Andrei Radu @Ram Sabaratnam @Jessica Booker

Do you have any advice on how to answer the following?

1. What would be challenging for you as a trainee and how would you overcome that?

2. What are some of the main challenges you faced?

3. Who would be your dream client?

4. If you had a million dollars, what would you invest in right now?

Thank you!

Hey @KBanana

These are really great questions. I’ve included some tips below and some examples. Feel free to adapt your responses in the actual application form with your genuine interests and experiences!

1. What would be challenging for you as a trainee, and how would you overcome that?

One challenge trainees typically face is adapting to the firm’s internal technologies and databases, including document management platforms, internal project management software, and communication tools. To navigate this, it’s crucial to show initiative and proactivity. Law firms want to see that you’re taking responsibility for your learning, so it's not enough to say, “I would ask my supervisor.” Instead, emphasise how you’d go the extra mile by spending additional time to familiarise yourself with these tools. You could mention setting aside time outside of your daily tasks to practise using the software until you’re proficient. For example, you could review available online tutorials or training materials to master these tools more efficiently. The goal is to show that you’re dedicated to becoming well-versed with these platforms and are actively working towards being able to use them independently over time, which would demonstrate your ability to handle workloads efficiently and your commitment to adding value to the team.


2. What are some of the main challenges you faced?

For this question, you could discuss a professional challenge you encountered, either in a prior role or as part of your transition from university to a professional environment. While the question doesn’t directly ask how you overcame the challenge, it’s wise to address this as it shows resilience and growth. Think of a time when you encountered a steep learning curve—perhaps when adapting to a fast-paced role or meeting high expectations for accuracy under tight deadlines. Describe how you proactively addressed the situation by, for example, seeking feedback from supervisors, refining your time management techniques, or setting structured goals to track your progress. Demonstrating this shows that you don’t shy away from challenges and are adaptable in overcoming them.


3. Who would be your dream client?

For this question, your “dream client” doesn’t need to be an existing client of the firm, though some firms do appreciate the “reverse approach” of mentioning one of their clients as a dream client. Generally, you can choose a client in an industry or sector you’re genuinely interested in. Start by explaining why that sector appeals to you before discussing specifics about the client’s operations. For example, if you’re interested in renewable energy, you could mention a company focused on developing sustainable technologies. Discuss how the growth and innovation in renewable energy align with your interests in environmental sustainability and corporate responsibility. Giving an example of the challenges a client in that sector might face, such as navigating regulations or expanding into international markets, can further demonstrate your understanding of the industry.


4. If you had a million dollars, what would you invest in right now?

For this question, you might start by saying, “First of all, if I had a million dollars, I wouldn’t invest all of it!” Highlighting the importance of diversification can make your answer more strategic. Mention that you would avoid putting all your eggs in one basket and would likely invest only a portion in a high-growth area like energy. Energy is an ever-relevant sector because of the global demand for natural resources, which is likely to remain consistently high. For example, energy scarcity and high demand have led many industries—including law firms—to see value in sectors like energy, with some firms even relocating to regions like the Middle East due to its energy production capabilities. You could allocate another portion to healthcare and retail, both of which have been highly attractive to private equity investors recently. Here, you can reference how you could enter as an institutional investor or high-net-worth individual to take advantage of the long-term growth these sectors offer. And after an 8-10 year period, you could plan to exit your investment for an optimal return, showcasing both your interest in growth and your understanding of strategic long-term investments.

Hope this helps!

 

[RonRod13]

Th

Thank you mate and good luck on the AC.

Havent got the AC yet tho

 

[Deleted member 37508]

Congrats! When did you submit your application

Thank you. 25/10

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey guys, I had my W&C VI last week, and in between answering a question, I started mumbling a bit and froze. I havent been able to forgive myself since then, because I know how much it took me to get to that point, and I essentially feel like I fumbled the bag. I havent heard back, and every time my mail app sends a notification, my heart skips a beat. How do I forgive myself for this

Hey @Simi.O

I completely understand how you're feeling right now. I remember during my first-year scheme application cycle, I was asked to complete a pre-recorded interview, and I completely froze until the time limit ran out. I felt exactly the way you do—disappointed and as if I'd wasted an important opportunity. But moments like this are actually more common than we realise, especially early in our careers when we’re still getting comfortable with these high-stakes situations.

It’s easy to get down on yourself, but it’s crucial to remember that this one moment doesn’t define you or your potential. I convinced myself that it wasn’t a true measure of my ability to communicate well and saw it as just one of many stepping stones in the journey. I also found it helpful to take a step back and recharge, which helped me come back stronger and even more prepared for the next time.

So, be kind to yourself. You’re capable of learning from this, and it’s clear you’re already doing everything you can to grow. No matter the outcome, this experience is a valuable lesson that will only make you more resilient. Keep going—you’re doing amazing!

 

[hfbjsdhfbhf]

I did the Bird & Bird WG last Friday. Hopefully I’ll hear something back soon!

was this for the summer or spring VS?

 

[yasmars]

Thank you. 25/10

Just received an invite too!

 

[Deleted member 37508]

Just received an invite too!

Congrats. Let’s go smash it.

 

[safari3]

Does anyone know how much candidates who attend a Cooley Insight Day are at an advantage for the VS?

 

[studentdelaw786]

Does anyone know the correct structure to answering this question in AllHires:

Have you ever had to resit an exam? If yes, which exam(s) and what was the outcome?

 

[Bread]

Does anyone know the correct structure to answering this question in AllHires:

Have you ever had to resit an exam? If yes, which exam(s) and what was the outcome?

I would imagine there is a yes/no box and then you have to say which subject/exam you had to resit and whether you passed. But I don't think that is the place to include mitigating circumstances

 

[studentdelaw786]

I would imagine there is a yes/no box and then you have to say which subject/exam you had to resit and whether you passed. But I don't think that is the place to include mitigating circumstances

Thank you. There is that, but was wondering if I should go into detail as to why I failed and what I did better, etc.

 

[Bread]

Thank you. There is that, but was wondering if I should go into detail as to why I failed and what I did better, etc.

Ngl i really don't think they care in that section, i imagine that would go in the mitigating circumstances box

 

[studentdelaw786]

Ngl i really don't think they care in that section, i imagine that would go in the mitigating circumstances box

Thank you for helping me out!

 

[SamiyaJ]

was this for the summer or spring VS?

Spring

 

[VMS]

Is anyone else unable to submit their application for the Cooley Open Day? It keeps on saying my application data cannot be found. I have emailed GR, but I'm pretty nervous as the deadline is tomorrow!

 

[mfuturetrainee]

Hey @KSV , It’s a possibility for sure. However, my general approach is to not engage in political discussions in interviews unless asked.

Hi Amma,

I just wanted to bounce off this and ask another q related to this. So the firm I'm applying to is quite strong in EM and so I wanted to potentially talk about how the US tariffs would impact the trade deals in EMs going forward as a topical issue if I were to be asked. Would you still advice against it?

@Andrei Radu would love your thoughts too!​

 

[Deleted member 37508]

Any news from Weil or Linklaters for their Open-days?

 

[Andrei Radu]

Ropes & Gray: Describe three characteristics that you believe make an outstanding Ropes & Gray lawyer and how that lawyer would drive our business. (500 words max) Does this question require answering why I am suited as a Ropes & Gray lawyer? Some general advise will also be appreciated. Thanks! @Andrei Radu @Ram Sabaratnam

Hi @Soprano the way I see it, this question aims to test you in three key areas: (i) a classic 'why you' justification; (ii) your knowledge of Ropes & Gray and the particular skills and traits they may be looking for; and (iii) an ability to connect those that with what makes the firm's business success. As such, I think what you should do is:

1. Identify Ropes & Gray's most important practice areas in London.
2. Identify the three or four most important common skills/traits necessary for succeeding while working in those practice areas. If you can further connect the skills/traits to one of the firm's unique selling points (thus showing what would make you an exceptional Ropes & Gray lawyer specifically, not just what would make you a great big law lawyer in general), your answer will be even better.
3. Explain how lawyers possessing those skills/traits are valuable for attracting and retaining clients and thus driving Ropes & Gray's business. If you can connect the skills/traits with the firm's unique selling points from a client perspective, once again your answer will be even better.
4. Demonstrate how you possess those skills/traits by describing a relevant experience or achievement using the traditional STAR structure.

To clarify, these steps are just meant to show you how I think you can plan out the substantive content of your answer. I am not advising you to follow this approach when determining how to structure your ideas. For structure, I think something like the following will likely be better:

• Paragraph 1: (i) You identify one skill/trait which you claim is relevant and that you possess; (ii) you evidence your claim by referencing the relevant experience/achievement which you describe using STAR; (iii) you explain how the skill/trait is very valuable for at least one of Ropes & Gray's key departments; (iv) you explain how this will help retain/win clients and mandates, and if possible connect the point to one of the firm's unique selling points.
• Paragraph 2: Repeat with a different skill/trait.
• Paragraph 3: Repeat with a different skill/trait.