Guys why do I feel like I'm going through like a mid life crisis - at some points I'm feeling devastated and tired with this process and other times (like now) I'm super excited for no reason to do this process... like hello what is going on 🤣
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
- Start date
Sadly extremely relatable... but we carry on
Good luck tomorrow to you and everyone else on Skadden's WE!
hey everyone, I wanted to just get some life advice regarding next steps of my life. it's a bit of a weird space to do it but I think it will definitely relate to a lot of people here. I'm a non-law finalist and right now it feels like its go time for applications whether that's law or masters. in my heart of hearts I want to do a masters, but there's always been a piece of me that loves law and wants to try it out but law is not only competitive and time-consuming but also not something you can dip your toes in since its often times vac scheme- tc offer-law school which is like a 3 year process.
I know I don't have enough time to balance masters and law but I also do not want to risk potentially having regrets in the future. I've thought about doing just masters applications but again it's so hard because it just so happens that my potential course is only offered at the best unis in the uk/u.s. I also really like law but sometimes I find myself questioning if the applications, pfo's and 10 stages is even worth it. In an ideal world, I would get my dream masters but also have a tc offer which I would defer for post masters but we unfortunately do not live in such paradise. It's been scarier knowing in this one holiday I have 5 masters apps, diss work, coursework and potentially more law apps too.
I feel like I'm getting nowhere asking myself what it is that I want so I wanted to ask here to see if others have been through this, if anyone has any guidance and advice?
I know I don't have enough time to balance masters and law but I also do not want to risk potentially having regrets in the future. I've thought about doing just masters applications but again it's so hard because it just so happens that my potential course is only offered at the best unis in the uk/u.s. I also really like law but sometimes I find myself questioning if the applications, pfo's and 10 stages is even worth it. In an ideal world, I would get my dream masters but also have a tc offer which I would defer for post masters but we unfortunately do not live in such paradise. It's been scarier knowing in this one holiday I have 5 masters apps, diss work, coursework and potentially more law apps too.
I feel like I'm getting nowhere asking myself what it is that I want so I wanted to ask here to see if others have been through this, if anyone has any guidance and advice?
ahha same same, but I'm not sure how best to prepare LOL I am cooked too but thank you!
Best of luck everyone!
Ok so I am a little bit concerned as I did just submit the test this evening. I spent a LOT of time on their application and rlly would like to atleast make it to stage 2 with them so I hope I hear good news tomorrow
oh girl then ur fine, give it some time! I did my test 1 in like Nov so i know im defo PFO haha
Switching between exhausted, excited, apathetic and anxious every day is doing WONDERS for my nervous system🥰 it is truly not for the weak hahahaha
You don't have to decide your entire future this holiday. It’s worth remembering that the average age of qualification as a solicitor in the UK is around 30. There is absolutely no rule that says you must secure a TC before you graduate. Law firms deeply values people with unique academic backgrounds and passion, so doing a masters doesn't close the door to a legal career, and will quite often enrich your profile for later applications.
Right now, with diss and masters apps, your plate is full. Consider focusing your energy there to do them justice. You can keep law warm by targeting just a few firms you genuinely love, or by using time to network and attend open days instead of applying everywhere. This will help you gather intel without burning out before you even start working in the career. You could also consider exploring in-house legal internships, as I found that it is genuinely a more accessible way to get direct commercial legal experience.
A method that served me very well in interviews was to research the major clients of the firms I was applying to. Instead of just knowing that the firm has a top-tier M&A practice, look at who their key clients are, maybe a major retail bank or a renewable energy developer. Then, ask yourself what are the biggest commercial and regulatory challenges facing that client's industry right now, and how could a law firm help to mitigate those issues? This is how some law firms analyse the news to scope out potential new clients and to manage risk for their existing ones.
The core benefit of doing a TI is human interaction. You can pick up on tonal cues, ask for brief clarification if needed, and build a more natural rapport. It feels less like a performance and more like a dialogue. A VI can often make you feel like you're speaking into a void which can heighten anxiety, and cause some people to perform less adequately.
Any GR team that views a reasonable adjustment request negatively is failing in its duty to ensure fair access. In practice, GR teams handle these requests confidentially and routinely. Using an adjustment you're entitled to does not mark your application down, it simply ensures the assessment measures what it's supposed to.
The format is different, but the assessment criteria are the same. You are still being evaluated on your motivation, competencies, and commercial awareness. The TI might allow for slightly more nuance in a conversation, but the benchmark for success doesn't change. The firm is assessing your suitability for the role of a solicitor, which leads to your next point.
Good luck on your applications!!
I got my invite for the hsfk summer vac scheme ac in February last year, so it might take a while as they will probably still be interview spring vac scheme candidates at this time. The waiting is really tough, but no news is definitely still good news at this stage.
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