TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Amma Usman]

So after trying for VS for a few years, I have landed a role as a paralegal in a criminal defence firm. Obviously this is very different and so far I’m loving it and not even sure I’d want to switch anyway, but does anyone know if having this on my CV will be a help or hindrance to VS applications?

I’m sure you’ve heard of this before, but any experience is valuable experience! Criminal defence is indeed a very interesting area of law. When applying to commercial law firms, you could easily link that role to the white collar defence practice of a firm, or litigation/ intl arbitration, and those sort of areas. This will make a really good application and a compelling case if the firm you’re applying to has a strong contentious practice. Best of luck! Paralegal experience is great and I know you’re gonna do great. This is even due to the soft skills (as well as many other skills, of course) that such roles bring, such as oral communication, email etiquette, and so on.

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi guys! I’ve just finished a VS which I think went ok. I had a partner tell me I’m a good fit personality wise and I think my interview went ok ish. My feedback on my work was that there was a lot of mistakes but they think it’s just from lack of experience. 2 members of my team have said to message them about a paralegal role once I find out if I’ve got the TC. I’m a bit mixed about this and can’t tell if there’s any hope? Can someone please enlighten me haha

From what you’ve written, I think there is much hope. I would say in the future be mindful of little mistakes like even spelling, grammar, or structural mistakes when submitting work as attention to detail is a key skill for a lawyer. However, mistakes are a part of life so I do not presume you will be penalised heavily at VS stage for this. Another truth is that it will be difficult to know exactly how well you did in all areas as a lot of the feedback will be looked at holistically. It’s easy to fall into the trap of constantly overthinking when you’re yet to hear back from the firm, but please try to distract yourself by doing things you enjoy, spending time with loved ones, etc. I know this is easier said than done, but please just be positive and optimistic about the outcome and you will feel a bit lighter. Best wishes, I’m really rooting for you on this.

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi guys,

I have reached the interview stage for Perkins Coie’s VS. I would be so appreciative for any tips. From what I have been told, it is a 30-minute competency based interview. I haven’t reached a single interview stage in a VS application cycle (this is my first one) and am honestly looking for guidance.

Also, I would be so appreciative of any resources you guys can recommend (e.g TCLA mock interview???)

P.s: I received the email at 00:02 today

Thanks guys 🙏

Yay. This makes me soo happy! HUGE CONGRATS!

In terms of preparing for competency based interviews, it’s important to first acknowledge that it differs from a motivational interview. Competency interviews, quite literally, test certain competencies - organisational management, commercial acumen, etc. However, I also want to let you know that I’ve done interviews that were called “competency”, but still “motivational“ in some respects - so, asking the basic questions like “why the firm, why commercial law”. The competency part will likely cover “why you”. Prepare for the full spectrum just in case.

You can also book mock interviews with TCLA via here. If you have an existing membership, I recommend logging in first to the TCLA courses page - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/mock-interview-2/

In terms of general tips:

• I always say this: know your experiences in and out. That way, whatever question you’re asked, you’ll be able to ace it. The reason this works is because you’ll naturally be able to pick out the key skills and competencies you acquired through knowing each individual task you did.
• Know the core practices at the firm and weave into some answers (as is relevant) why you want to complete a VS there.
• Ask thoughtful questions at the end. I say thoughtful because you don’t want to be the person that asks really generic questions. My approach with this is always to ask interviewers something about their own work and experiences - that way, you learn a lot about the firm and the role at large.
• A great guide by @Andrei Radu to help - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....de-for-competency-interview-preparation.9380/
• Vocal intonation and eye contact - a given, but worth flagging still.
• Professional attire - even if it‘s an online interview, I recommend putting over a formal blazer.

 

[Amma Usman]

bit of a jump but does anyone know a rough estimate of when NRF typically holds their winter vs dates

early dec? mid december?

Last year, it was 2-13th December. More information here - https://www.nortonrosefulbright.com/en-gb/graduates/apply

 

[LiveLaughLawyer]

How do firms measure success on a vacation scheme ?

 

[L177]

Hi everyone, first time posting on here! I've just received an email to say I've been invited to take the Reed Smith virtual assessment and interview - if anyone has any tips I would be extremely grateful for any replies or DMs. I am pretty nervous as I've never done a virtual interview like this before!

 

[Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha]

I flukely managed to convert my Summer VS at a SC firm. Thanks everyone that has given me advice and insight on this forum. I find that it's really based on whether you get along with your supervisor/trainee and their personalities, so don't be too discouraged if you aren't able to convert this cycle. A lot is actually out of your control, but the one thing you can control is how many applications you send out, so cast a very wide net.