TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Abbie Whitlock]

Thank you @Abbie Whitlock, in terms of client sector I am not sure which one to choose as I do not have a set sector I am interested in so it is quite difficult to say how it aligns with my ambitions. I have practice areas in mind which would be much easier. Do you have tips on the way to go about this? thank you

Hey!

No problem at all! I totally get where you’re coming from, and it can definitely feel tricky when you’re drawn to practice areas rather than client sectors.

One way to approach it might be to look for overlaps: for example, have a think about what practice areas these sectors may be involved in. If you’re interested in areas such as IP, employment, or litigation, you could explore how those come into play in sectors such as tech, life sciences, and media.

Even if you don’t have a set sector in mind, you can still frame your answer around how the article gave you insight into a real-world issue that intersects with your own genuine interests, and reflect on how that aligns with the kind of work you can see yourself doing at the firm.

It’s more about showing genuine curiosity and being able to make that connection, rather than having everything perfectly planned out - best of luck with your application

 

[jfb]

Hogan Lovells asks for details of any Open Days or Events attended. I’ve been to quite a few, but since my open days are already covered in my work experience section, I was planning to highlight other events instead. For example, I recently attended the Legal Cheek “AI, Blockchain and the Future of Corporate Law” event with Hogan Lovells. The only issue is that I was at work at the time and my Wi-Fi kept cutting out, so my notes didn’t save. I’d still like to reference the event since it was directly with the firm, but I’m unsure if I could confidently discuss it in depth at interview without reviewing my notes.

Bit of a random question but unsure if I should just focus on other events not with the firm or still include this?

 

[GT1205H]

Hogan Lovells asks for details of any Open Days or Events attended. I’ve been to quite a few, but since my open days are already covered in my work experience section, I was planning to highlight other events instead. For example, I recently attended the Legal Cheek “AI, Blockchain and the Future of Corporate Law” event with Hogan Lovells. The only issue is that I was at work at the time and my Wi-Fi kept cutting out, so my notes didn’t save. I’d still like to reference the event since it was directly with the firm, but I’m unsure if I could confidently discuss it in depth at interview without reviewing my notes.

Bit of a random question but unsure if I should just focus on other events not with the firm or still include this?

Is this for the application form? If it is, they state at the top of the work experience section that you should not include open days or events because you will be given the opportunity to talk about it in the next section.

 

[aspiringsolicitor2027]

Hey!

I think that the question is a really good opportunity to show a bit more of yourself beyond work and study. It's less about having some huge achievement, and more about showing how everyday experiences have helped you build skills that matter in a trainee role. Activities such as being part of a sports team, volunteering, or organising a society event can all work well if you can link them back to what you learned.

A structure that I would usually use is:

• What you did - the activity or experience.
• What you learned - the key skills that you built (teamwork, resilience, communication, organisations, etc.)
• Why it matters - how these skills will help you as a trainee solicitor

For example:

"In my role as secretary of the university magazine, I was responsible for organising meetings, managing deadlines, and keeping communication clear between the editorial team and the design time. This meant balancing different priorities, resolving last-minute issues, and making sure that the magazine stayed on track to meet publication deadlines. Through this, I developed strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team under pressure. These are directly relevant to life as a trainee, where clear communication, teamwork, and the ability to manage competing demands are essential"

You don't need to link it back to Hogan Lovells directly, but thinking about the kind of qualities that they value in their trainees can help you frame your answer in the right way.

I hope that assists

On this question, does 'beyond work and study' mean that I can't mention any paid roles like vac schemes or other internships (I did as a student)? or any part time work as well

 

[tosin4774]

Yes there is a test. Grad rec confirmed.

Blame Gen AI, writing applications are now becoming too easy. Even some universities are moving away from written coursework

What will the online assessment process comprise of?