TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Deleted member 37508]

I had a question. How selfish is too selfish.
I reply to messages on this forum and provide insight on my progress with firms as a guidance for others who have applied. It’s only fair as I enjoy seeing when others post news. But I wondered where do we draw the line of tips/help. I have no problem providing video interview questions to a firm I have been rejected by, I wouldn’t see the person asking me as ‘competition’ as I would be out of the running. However, I constantly get messages about a firm I am currently in the process for asking for video interview/ interview questions. How is that fair. As for tips for video interviews etc what tips are you looking for. It’s a video interview. I have had people reach out and I’ve given tips such as The type of questions the video interview are based on such as competency or motivational but I believe this makes no difference to the prep you should’ve already been doing if you’re serious about the firm and law in general as many of these answers are reusable.

Offering advice about prep time and how many questions are very acceptable but then again this is all provided before you commence the video interview. Getting a training contract is a competitive process I don’t understand why anyone would think someone would give them an advantage by providing the answer to a video interview for a firm they are waiting to hear back from also.

My two pence based on my observations recently.

 

[Deleted member 37508]

I think it’s down to your discretion really. If someone asks you something and you ignore it because you don’t think it’s fair, they aren’t going to know you ignored it and they were probably just trying their luck anyway. A closed mouth never gets fed and the worst anyone can say is no… Or make a post about it after you just asked them a question. 😂😂😂😂😂😂

My post wasn’t indirecting any single person but the people who fit the description of what I was speaking about.

 

[Tcvspfo]

I think it’s down to your discretion really. If someone asks you something and you ignore it because you don’t think it’s fair, they aren’t going to know you ignored it and they were probably just trying their luck anyway. A closed mouth never gets fed and the worst anyone can say is no… Or make a post about it after you just asked them a question. 😂😂😂😂😂😂

No but the person was saying about helping people and some not appreciating and as someone similar I can relate to it is unfair and selfish sometimes from some people on the forum. As someone who has received multiple messages from people who do not want to post in the forum or who do not know me or never reacted to my posts on the forum and messaging about DLA and PWC VI asking for which questions they will be asked. I feel it is unfair and and rude from people like that.

 

[Deleted member 37508]

🤗🤗🤗 I was just trying to be lighthearted about things. I get what both of you are saying. I just think it makes sense to just use your prerogative and ignore questions that you don’t feel comfortable answering, for whatever reason. However, this forum is for gaining useful insight and that’s what people are trying to get. I think you should try not to take things personally because it just makes this whole experience more stressful than it already is.

I think your comment was a weird way of invalidating my original post. Gaining useful insight is acceptable constantly bothering people for video interview questions is not. If I’m constantly being messaged about this I thought it was key to bring to the forum because ignoring simply isn’t enough. I’ve had 4 people message me privately agreeing with my post with people badgering them for answers.

Good night.

 

[BillSikes]

Anyone know if CMS are rolling or not as have seen mixed feelings about this online.

CMS confirmed by e-mail to me on 8 Nov that they are non-rolling.

 

[legal18]

Ah just sent off my first VS application of the cycle...

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi everyone,

A quick reminder to maintain a constructive and respectful atmosphere in our discussions. Let’s focus on providing insightful feedback and avoid personal comments to ensure a positive, supportive environment. Thank you!

 

[Amma Usman]

Ah just sent off my first VS application of the cycle...

Well done on sending off your first application @legal18 ! Goodluck with the cycle. We’re rooting for you all..! 🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀

 

[Audric_T]

I had a question. How selfish is too selfish.
I reply to messages on this forum and provide insight on my progress with firms as a guidance for others who have applied. It’s only fair as I enjoy seeing when others post news. But I wondered where do we draw the line of tips/help. I have no problem providing video interview questions to a firm I have been rejected by, I wouldn’t see the person asking me as ‘competition’ as I would be out of the running. However, I constantly get messages about a firm I am currently in the process for asking for video interview/ interview questions. How is that fair. As for tips for video interviews etc what tips are you looking for. It’s a video interview. I have had people reach out and I’ve given tips such as The type of questions the video interview are based on such as competency or motivational but I believe this makes no difference to the prep you should’ve already been doing if you’re serious about the firm and law in general as many of these answers are reusable.

Offering advice about prep time and how many questions are very acceptable but then again this is all provided before you commence the video interview. Getting a training contract is a competitive process I don’t understand why anyone would think someone would give them an advantage by providing the answer to a video interview for a firm they are waiting to hear back from also.

My two pence based on my observations recently.

I don't know, I see both sides of the argument - I have had numerous messages asking for support and answers and I have answered each one honestly and to the best of my knowledge - I have gained a lot of help from this platform and feel I should pass along that help. I don't see my fellow forum members as competition - at the end of the day we all have a common goal - get a training contract - we have to apply, put in effort to our application, do a series of assessments and then put up with lack of communication from certain firms - PFOs and no feedback in certain instances - we aren't competitors, those that push on are survivors.

I have an A/C with a firm that I would love to work with - I have spent every moment not working or with family - researching the company, brushing up on my commercial knowledge and asking questions - I have reached out to current trainees at the firm who have provided me with guidance and insight, answers to their various stages and obviously I'm not going to copy as it is disingenuous but it doesn't make the process any less competitive - Hell the firm I have a A/C have actually said reach out to trainees, future lawyers, partners and associates directly.

I see your point but a lot of firms have collaboration and teamwork as a key value - if you are unwilling to help here, whats it going to be like in your A/C or when you get a TC and need to help others - Just my two cents but as a professional with a decade of experience - helping doesn't harm your chances - if they copy your answers then they won't get anyway to be honest. If they get an advantage so what? if you have done the VI - then their outcome has no impact on your application. If you have done the A/C and provide guidance or answers or insight - haven't you already done it?

Anyways long story short, thank you everyone that has helped me, it is appreciated to those who have asked I have also returned the favour - I apologies if I have delayed responses I am also working and looking after family - this platform is amazing.

 

[Deleted member 37508]

I don't know, I see both sides of the argument - I have had numerous messages asking for support and answers and I have answered each one honestly and to the best of my knowledge - I have gained a lot of help from this platform and feel I should pass along that help. I don't see my fellow forum members as competition - at the end of the day we all have a common goal - get a training contract - we have to apply, put in effort to our application, do a series of assessments and then put up with lack of communication from certain firms - PFOs and no feedback in certain instances - we aren't competitors, those that push on are survivors.

I have an A/C with a firm that I would love to work with - I have spent every moment not working or with family - researching the company, brushing up on my commercial knowledge and asking questions - I have reached out to current trainees at the firm who have provided me with guidance and insight, answers to their various stages and obviously I'm not going to copy as it is disingenuous but it doesn't make the process any less competitive - Hell the firm I have a A/C have actually said reach out to trainees, future lawyers, partners and associates directly.

I see your point but a lot of firms have collaboration and teamwork as a key value - if you are unwilling to help here, whats it going to be like in your A/C or when you get a TC and need to help others - Just my two cents but as a professional with a decade of experience - helping doesn't harm your chances - if they copy your answers then they won't get anyway to be honest. If they get an advantage so what? if you have done the VI - then their outcome has no impact on your application. If you have done the A/C and provide guidance or answers or insight - haven't you already done it?

Anyways long story short, thank you everyone that has helped me, it is appreciated to those who have asked I have also returned the favour - I apologies if I have delayed responses I am also working and looking after family - this platform is amazing.

Your points are very valid and good luck with your AC I’m sure you’ll perform great. Your approach is 100% correct in terms of reaching out for guidance. You’re actively seeking to improve your knowledge of the firm by networking with those at the firm and those who have intel on this platform. However, this has nothing to do with my post on video interview gremlins and those badgering people. If I were to give answers to others that determines my team work and collaboration skills? If I did my CMS VI today at 5pm and someone asked for the answer on the forum and I posted those questions that leaves myself and everyone who did that interview prior to 5pm at an disadvantage and those after at an advantage potentially affecting our applications.

I will not be responding to this discussion again as I’m not a team player apparently 😛

 

[Jessica Booker]

This is probably a good time to remind people about our terms relating to this.

3. Invasion of privacy​

You may use private messages when the subject matter is personal, where the content may help to identify individual members, or when an individual encourages you to contact them privately. We generally expect all other content to be posted in the forums, so the wider community can benefit from seeing it.

Members are responsible for their content and communication on TCLA. Whether in forums or private messages, it is up to the individual to decide on the information they provide, where they post, as well as with whom and when they share it. They have the right to change their minds too. TCLA will not tolerate any harassment of members where they are unable to meet other members’ expectations, whether on TCLA or through social media platforms.

Members must respect an individual’s desire not to share their answers. Anyone responding in private messages that goes beyond this guidance does so at their own risk.

Any attempts to harass a member for not sharing their answers will not be tolerated.

Some of our members choose not to be anonymous. Before adding anyone on other social media platforms, we encourage you to private message them and ask whether it is ok for you to add them. Using TCLA forum information to pester another member outside the forum will not be tolerated.

 

[Jessica Booker]

I think your comment was a weird way of invalidating my original post. Gaining useful insight is acceptable constantly bothering people for video interview questions is not. If I’m constantly being messaged about this I thought it was key to bring to the forum because ignoring simply isn’t enough. I’ve had 4 people message me privately agreeing with my post with people badgering them for answers.

Good night.

You can either report and/or block people who are harrassing you for information.

 

[Jessica Booker]

Your points are very valid and good luck with your AC I’m sure you’ll perform great. Your approach is 100% correct in terms of reaching out for guidance. You’re actively seeking to improve your knowledge of the firm by networking with those at the firm and those who have intel on this platform. However, this has nothing to do with my post on video interview gremlins and those badgering people. If I were to give answers to others that determines my team work and collaboration skills? If I did my CMS VI today at 5pm and someone asked for the answer on the forum and I posted those questions that leaves myself and everyone who did that interview prior to 5pm at an disadvantage and those after at an advantage potentially affecting our applications.

I will not be responding to this discussion again as I’m not a team player apparently 😛

Just a reminder about our terms regarding sharing video interview questions too, although what you do in private messages is at your own risk where it is not public:

6. Share information that does not undermine the recruitment process​

We expect a balance between sharing information and maintaining integrity. We endeavour to share as much information as possible, so the whole community benefits and the profession becomes more accessible. However, we want to do this without undermining the integrity of firms’ recruitment processes.

We allow the sharing of:

• the structure of an interview or assessment;
• live interview questions;
• General themes regarding individual assessment exercises, including case study or written exercise topics;
• Positive and negative experiences of the interview process; and
• Advice for preparing for interviews and assessments.

We do not allow the sharing of:

• Video interview questions; and
• Specific assessment information, such as the specific scenario of individual case studies, group assessments or written exercises.

Please be aware though that for certain firms who have publicly promoted their video interview questions (e.g. A&O Shearman) we have allowed this because the information is in the public domain anyway.

 

[sofcon1]

Hi everyone,

Does anyone know whether the work experience section of BCLP application should include positions of reponsibility/extra curricular alongside work experience?

Thanks so much!

 

[Nathan_CareerChanger]

On a separate note 🤣 I hope everyone is having a lovely evening, everyone is safe, and everyone is researching as crazily as I am 🤣 wishing everyone a blessed night - TCs for all.

But staying on topic of this thread - can anyone share their thoughts on NRF please, currently doing pro bono work with them and was really impressed with the trainee I was shadowing - he was brilliant 👏 So I'm curious if anyone has applied or interacted with the firm that may be able to share their thoughts please?

Don't get me wrong I have a concrete choice of firm i want butttt I'm curious to learn more about the firm (also believe me when I say I have read the website- looking tor forum insights 😅)

 

[Tclarocks123]

On a separate note 🤣 I hope everyone is having a lovely evening, everyone is safe, and everyone is researching as crazily as I am 🤣 wishing everyone a blessed night - TCs for all.

But staying on topic of this thread - can anyone share their thoughts on NRF please, currently doing pro bono work with them and was really impressed with the trainee I was shadowing - he was brilliant 👏 So I'm curious if anyone has applied or interacted with the firm that may be able to share their thoughts please?

Don't get me wrong I have a concrete choice of firm i want butttt I'm curious to learn more about the firm (also believe me when I say I have read the website- looking tor forum insights 😅)

I think they do good work in the community I also had some experience with them that was pro bono adjacent (this was back in 2018 so speaks to their commitment I feel like). I find their gamified test/artic shores difficult but I reckon this opinion may be an anomaly. They do really good work in energy if that is your vibe.

 

[Cherikon]

Hi, does anyone know if CMS hosts virtual ACs for those who have a long distance to travel (not that I've passed the VI, just planning)

 

[Shandy101]

No but the person was saying about helping people and some not appreciating and as someone similar I can relate to it is unfair and selfish sometimes from some people on the forum. As someone who has received multiple messages from people who do not want to post in the forum or who do not know me or never reacted to my posts on the forum and messaging about DLA and PWC VI asking for which questions they will be asked. I feel it is unfair and and rude from people like that.

Ur options are to ignore them or respond. Some people work and do Uni, so they have no time to follow every post in the chat or be as active as some. I work full time and do university and I have 2 children, so I am rarely here. If I get a VI invite and I have questions, I will do a search, and if you have posted that you did it, I may message you, having never had any interactions with you before. It is up to you to respond. At the end of the day, we're all here for one purpose. I get that it's annoying when some random who doesn't post or like comments messages you selfishly for help but you are in total control of whether you help or not. That is why the forum is anonymous.

 

[Gg2001]

On a separate note 🤣 I hope everyone is having a lovely evening, everyone is safe, and everyone is researching as crazily as I am 🤣 wishing everyone a blessed night - TCs for all.

But staying on topic of this thread - can anyone share their thoughts on NRF please, currently doing pro bono work with them and was really impressed with the trainee I was shadowing - he was brilliant 👏 So I'm curious if anyone has applied or interacted with the firm that may be able to share their thoughts please?

Don't get me wrong I have a concrete choice of firm i want butttt I'm curious to learn more about the firm (also believe me when I say I have read the website- looking tor forum insights 😅)

I didn‘t pass the application stage, but the app questions are 2 and reasonable to write on. The catch is the arctic shores like other person mentioned, you will have to practise and understand that logic because it’s not like doing a verbal reasoning test at all. If i still want a tc next cycle, i will only apply to firms with verbal reasoning or Watson glaser, I don’t like gamified assessments personally. It’s up to you. Attended virtual events, grad rec + trainees are very nice

 

[Gg2001]

Is the Ashurst test that Arctic shores games test? Or is it 3 seperate assessments?

Hi idk if you have searched already, it is cognify, emotify and values. search cognify ibm and you fill find it, same test basically. Worse than arctic shores for me. Cognify is super time pressured, that’s all I remember it was months ago.