TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Has anyone heard from Paul, Weiss this week post-interview?

Haven't even got an interview invite

 

[Legalfreak212]

OC PFO (I didn’t even do the test LMAOOO)

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Has anyone been able to have their app be considered for vac scheme instead of a TC? Just accidentally applied to a DTC instead of VS and wondering if it’s possible

Hey!

I'm sure it'll be dependent on the firm on whether they are able to swap your application over, but it is always worth an ask! The worst thing they can say is no and even then, your application will still be in the running for the TC process anyway!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hello @Abbie Whitlock

I was just wondering - for a short note and report, do you need a header with information like to, from, date etc - like what you would do in a memo? And, would you include an executive summary and/or conclusion for either of them?

Thank you

Hey!

In most written exercises, a short note wouldn't usually include a formal memo-style header (to/from/date). This is because it is meant to be a concise and practical update, so you can go straight into the substance of the document, using clear headings or bullet points. You also wouldn't necessarily include an executive summary or a formal conclusion - I'd say it is usually fine to end with next steps or a brief recommendation based on the overall contents.

A report tends to have a bit more structure, but again a full header isn't normally required unless the instructions specifically ask for one. An executive summary may be appropriate if the report is longer or more detailed, but in many AC exercises it would be fine to go straight into the analysis. A short conclusion can definitely be helpful to draw points together and set out recommendations as well.

Above all, I'd just ensure that you are following any instructions that are given - where the format isn't specified, I'd try to prioritise practicality and clarity.

I hope that assists!

 

[Legallylaw]

Shoosmiths is a firm of individuals, with a culture that will actively allow you to grow your skills and challenge yourself. Focusing on one previous experience (in personal, work or study), what skills have you developed that will support your career as a solicitor?(Max 300 words)- here is it better to do 3 skills and really get into it or stick 2 and go into real depth?

 

[MDO1]

Hi guys, do we know when Shoosmiths close their apps for discovery placement? Hoping it's tomorrow at midnight

Discover Placement closes on Saturday 31st January at 23.59pm.

 

[law5tudent]

I think I heard back within a week!

Ah amazing thank you!! May I ask, did you get an offer?

 

[trainee4u]

Shoosmiths is a firm of individuals, with a culture that will actively allow you to grow your skills and challenge yourself. Focusing on one previous experience (in personal, work or study), what skills have you developed that will support your career as a solicitor?(Max 300 words)- here is it better to do 3 skills and really get into it or stick 2 and go into real depth?

with 300 words I'd definitely go for 3 or more.

 

[trainee4u]

OC PFO

where's mine!

 

[johnsmith]

Ah amazing thank you!! May I ask, did you get an offer?

I did yes!

 

[Lawlawland]

I saw that some people previously received an email from Simmons saying they will be in touch regarding the AI internship by the end of Jan….I applied for the summer VS, and was wondering if we could expect that timeline as well? probably not

Funny enough, they still didn't reply us for the AI internship, and it's end of Jan

 

[EfficientBag123]

I saw that some people previously received an email from Simmons saying they will be in touch regarding the AI internship by the end of Jan….I applied for the summer VS, and was wondering if we could expect that timeline as well? probably not

Which office did you apply to?

 

[anonymous.15]

where's mine!

SAME OC PFO THE TEST WAS HORRENDOUS

 

[lawcool]

just did the WBD test and 2 particular questions my finger just jumped and I picked the complete wrong one, oops. I’ve probably helped some people out here hahah

 

[alphabravocharlie]

Why do some firms run their application later than others, whats the advantage because the application burnout is real

 

[alphabravocharlie]

Also is King & Spalding rolling, low-key cba at this point

 

[Novaa]

Reddit, Indeed and Glassdoor are trying to take me down a rabbit hole of ex-employee testimonies whilst I’m doing law firm research.

Like please not rn

 

[t2so]

Applied: 11th Jan
SJT Complete: 12th Jan
Scheme: Summer

Wbu?

Applied 13 October
SJT Completed 14 October
Also Summer

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Also is King & Spalding rolling, low-key cba at this point

I don't think so

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

K&L Gates app is way too long