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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

This may be a stupid question, but if an application question asks about a 'current' news story, can you talk about the tariffs? I know that things have settled down a little compared to the height of the tariff wars, but I still see it around on the news. Also, I wrote the answer to this question during the actual tariff wars, but I haven't submitted my application yet - would it be better to write about something else? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Yes, I think tariffs would still be fine to use. Firms will still be advising clients on the impact of tariffs and trade tensions, so it’s definitely still commercially relevant. I once had a call with a partner from SH who said that when firms ask for a “current” news story, they usually mean something from the last 2/3 years, not necessarily something from the past few weeks. So if you wrote the answer during the tariff wars, it should still be fine, you could just slightly update it if needed :)
 
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Back to ask my daily ‘has anyone heard back from Sidley post app recently’ question lmao.

I asked ChatGPT for a realistic assessment and it says I’m most likely on a reserve or holding list…

Sidley alr sent like 7-8 batches of PFOs from what I’ve seen people post on the forum but also sent a ton of TI and AC invites too. It’s so cooked…

Just want to be put out of my misery asap same for FF post VI and Faegre Drinker post app smh.​
 
I cannot believe I am making this announcement, but after three years of applying for vacation schemes and training contracts, I was offered a place on Osborne Clarke’s Summer Vacation Scheme! 🎉

To say I am absolutely over the moon is an understatement. I enjoyed every part of the process and I can’t wait to join the scheme in the summer! Thank you to those on this forum who have supported me through this demoralising process, you really have all been so amazing ❤️
Amazing news, congratulations! Which office is this for? I'm also doing the OC vac scheme this summer :)
 
Hi all, I have recently been offered a summer vacation scheme and have been offered the choice of 2 different dates during summer. I’m trying to think whether there’s any particular advantage or disadvantage to choosing either date? Is it possible that if the earlier date cohort is very strong, the firm could have given out more than half of its TC offers before the later scheme even starts?
Yes, this happens. I would go for the earlier one to be safe!
 
This may be a stupid question, but if an application question asks about a 'current' news story, can you talk about the tariffs? I know that things have settled down a little compared to the height of the tariff wars, but I still see it around on the news. Also, I wrote the answer to this question during the actual tariff wars, but I haven't submitted my application yet - would it be better to write about something else? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I think if you can find a way to link it to something which is ongoing and present, it is a totally valid thing to talk about. ie. the ongoing repercussions it has had on supply chains and increased costs to consumers :)
 
Yes, this happens. I would go for the earlier one to be safe!
I disagree. Most firms with two weeks of back to back placements will not make any offers until both weeks have concluded. They want the best candidates and so in making offers before the second week they would be messing up their own process and risking missing out on the best candidates
 

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