TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Deleted member 41929]

Willkie PFO. Applied in October

 

[Jennifer2003]

I was wondering if anybody could give me some advice:
I have an interview on 5th Feb and I assumed I’d get cover for work so accepted it as it was the only date and time available (I think it is the last day the firm is doing ACs) however nobody at work can cover me now. I know it’s completely my fault and really irresponsible to accept the ac before 100% knowing I could make it, but I’ve never not been able to get a shift covered/rearranged so I didn’t deep it. If I ask the firm for another date, is it likely they would be understanding?

 

[FTS2026]

is anyone yet to hear back from Dechert post-app for summer?

 

[johnsmith]

Freshfields DTC PFO

Same!

 

[User2640]

I just completed the WBD Neurosight test. My first test of this type.

That's an interesting one. You place your mouse in a set position, a question appears, then after 5 seconds a few possible choices appear on screen and you move the mouse to the one that reflects your immediate thoughts. I heard that they track mouse movements to gauge authentic responses.

Makes a nice change from WG, of course!

How many seconds do we have to choose for each qs if I may ask?

 

[desk70]

Just got Baker McKenzie VI!

 

[AP2000]

Does anyone have any advice on maintaining momentum? This hasn’t been a great cycle for me and honestly this whole process makes me feel stupid lol I don’t know if it’s worth it to continue to pursue this career anymore

Feel free to message me privately if you want a rant! All I'll say as someone slightly older (mid 20s) working in finance, is that this process is quite frankly ridiculous and it's important to not blame yourself. Being rejected doesn't mean you don't have what it takes, and it doesn't mean you won't have a successful career elsewhere.

My approach so far has been - am I getting fixated on an application outcome? If yes, focus on another app. I also try to have very very very low expectations and recognise that HR isn't some sort of all-knowing deity.

Adding on to some earlier posts, I can't emphasise enough how ridiculous the recruitment process is for most firms. Let me give you an example: I have about a year's experience working in AI risk and regulation in a major investment bank, but I got rejected from the Simmons AI internship (most likely because their SJT said I have bad people skills). Quite frankly, I almost find it funny how ridiculous that outcome was!

This isn't about you or your worth - call out sh**ty HR processes focused on simply cutting volume of applicants as quickly as possible, and realise you have all it takes to be a great lawyer. Now, some people might say "you can't just not take any accountability for a rejected application" and that's a different thing - but sometimes we need to tell ourselves narratives that don't shatter our ego and I find that "they didn't see my potential - let me see how I can improve next time" is much better than "I'm just not good enough".

 

[Afuturetrainee]

I was wondering if anybody could give me some advice:
I have an interview on 5th Feb and I assumed I’d get cover for work so accepted it as it was the only date and time available (I think it is the last day the firm is doing ACs) however nobody at work can cover me now. I know it’s completely my fault and really irresponsible to accept the ac before 100% knowing I could make it, but I’ve never not been able to get a shift covered/rearranged so I didn’t deep it. If I ask the firm for another date, is it likely they would be understanding?

Phone in sick

 

[User2640]

Thank you!

 

[tedkiss]

I also found it quite relaxing and engaging. Wasn’t anything complex but yeah I was trying to go fast through them just in case they actually look at the response time.

 

[Gregglt]

Is the sjt automatic for Shoosmiths? Or do they sent it only for successful written applications

 

[hanz123]

Is the sjt automatic for Shoosmiths? Or do they sent it only for successful written applications

Pretty sure it’s automatic

 

[Miles Edgeworth]

hi guys! just a question to anyone who has experienced the same emotional issue. I have a clear list of firms that have excited me to bits and I have tried to put so much effort in the applications but haven’t had any success with them.

I have been applying more of course, and I have finally secured my first AC (it’s my 2nd application cycle). However, I am honest with myself that I am not really excited about this firm. Like, I am and I do have a strong interest in some of their practice areas. Plus, I know that it is a great learning opportunity and I might really enjoy it there, but something still makes me not so fascinated about preparing for AC.

How to make yourself super energised about the process? Has anyone had the same feeling?

I think the easiest way to be motivated is to remind yourself you do not have to stay at that firm for the rest of your career.

Using a firm as a stepping stone to one you're more passionate about is also totally fine so long as the practice areas/sector focus overlap.

That is high key how I have motivated myself with the additional applications I sent for firms I was not as excited about.

 

[tedkiss]

Pretty sure it’s automatic

I think it’s based on eligibility if you pass the requirements you receive it.

 

[silonthesofa]

Phone in sick

What would the SRA say to such blatant dishonesty? But also she already asked if people can cover, so that ship has sailed lol

 

[Rads]

Same!

Hey, I am really sorry but do you mind if I ask when did you do Stage 2?

 

[e.jy336]

what's considered like a 'good' or competitive amberjack score? besides from the maximum - what would people say is the minimum threshold

 

[qwerty!]

i have a virtual AC tomorrow and i was wondering what’s appropriate to wear? i kind of don’t want to be sat in a suit all day, so i was thinking a white collared shirt under a plain black jumper? or is that not formal enough (i’m a girl btw - not that it makes a difference but might inform some outfit recommendations lol)