TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[DavidJC]

I've spent the last two days working on my Skadden application and I'm very nervous as I really like the firm. I've now done multiple rereads constantly trying to figure out how replaceable "Skadden" is with another firm in my answers but remain unsure about it :/

At the very least, I think it's almost always replaceable with Latham or Kirkland and possibly any other firm doing cross-border M&A except where specific deals/names are mentioned lol

Just wondering if anyone else ever feels like this when trying to tailor their applications (not necessarily in relation to these firms and cross-border M&A specifically)?

 

[A worried paralegal]

I've spent the last two days working on my Skadden application and I'm very nervous as I really like the firm. I've now done multiple rereads constantly trying to figure out how replaceable "Skadden" is with another firm in my answers but remain unsure about it :/

At the very least, I think it's almost always replaceable with Latham or Kirkland and possibly any other firm doing cross-border M&A except where specific deals/names are mentioned lol

Just wondering if anyone else ever feels like this when trying to tailor their applications (not necessarily in relation to these firms and cross-border M&A specifically)?

I took a look and from what I can see, Skadden has a smaller cohort than Latham and offers slightly more broad work than Kirkland who are more PE-heavy

 

[firmfirm]

I took a look and from what I can see, Skadden has a smaller cohort than Latham and offers slightly more broad work than Kirkland who are more PE-heavy

They also have a strong international arbitration practice that you can point out as well

 

[johnsmith]

When did you do it?

24th October

 

[sadboi]

I've spent the last two days working on my Skadden application and I'm very nervous as I really like the firm. I've now done multiple rereads constantly trying to figure out how replaceable "Skadden" is with another firm in my answers but remain unsure about it :/

At the very least, I think it's almost always replaceable with Latham or Kirkland and possibly any other firm doing cross-border M&A except where specific deals/names are mentioned lol

Just wondering if anyone else ever feels like this when trying to tailor their applications (not necessarily in relation to these firms and cross-border M&A specifically)?

I said I read a book about Skadden's history. Not sure if it's useful though but I'm sure it was something out of the ordinary

 

[Harvey Specter]

I've spent the last two days working on my Skadden application and I'm very nervous as I really like the firm. I've now done multiple rereads constantly trying to figure out how replaceable "Skadden" is with another firm in my answers but remain unsure about it :/

At the very least, I think it's almost always replaceable with Latham or Kirkland and possibly any other firm doing cross-border M&A except where specific deals/names are mentioned lol

Just wondering if anyone else ever feels like this when trying to tailor their applications (not necessarily in relation to these firms and cross-border M&A specifically)?

In the same boat here. Have tried tailoring it best I could by mentioning some statistics and specific USPs. Besides their M&A practice, it is probably worthwhile discussing either their arbitration or tax practices (ranked highly on Chambers UK). Just submitted my application. It is reviewed holistically so stronger answers to the questions about an alternative career to law and developments that will impact Skadden’s clients will help. Good luck to everyone that has applied! Hopefully we hear back positively from Skadden.​

 

[lawstudent2]

I think it should be fine, as the additional information form will serve as concrete proof the mistake was unintentional and that you gave the firm notice of it as soon as you realised it. Nonetheless, if you want to be extra safe, there is no problem with emailing grad rec about it to ensure they are actually aware of it.

Okay thank you!!