TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Marble_Moth]

Hi!

Just thought I'd add my perspective to this as someone at Reed Smith - this is a really common issue, so don't feel bad! From the graduate recruitment perspective, as you aren't guaranteed to get a seat in a specific area, it's better to show an 'open minded' attitude towards practice areas you are interested in. You can still mention the areas you are interested in (and that is definitely encouraged!), but it's good to mention a few, even if you focus on one a little more. As a side note for future reference, the London office at Reed Smith doesn't work in the Life Sciences sector (as this is our US offices), so I'd keep that in mind if you reapply!

Firms do want to see genuine interest while still believing your open-minded enough to explore different seats during training. A helpful way to do this could be:

1. Anchor your "Why RS" in things that show you understand the firm's broader identity

For example, the firm's sector-driven approach, its collaborative culture, its international platform, the variety offered through seat rotations, or the type of clients it works with. These are wider characteristics that don't tie you to one area but still show firm-specific research.

2. Bring in your practice-area interest as one example of how RS aligns with you

This could look something like: "I was initially drawn to Reed Smith due to their Life Sciences work, given my background in X. However, what appeals to me most is the chance to explore a range of practices within a sector-focused firm, because...". This way, it feels like a point of connection and tailors it to your experiences, whilst also discussing other areas you are interested in.

3. Emphasise genuine openness

Even if you do like a specific area (which is completely fine!), firms still want to see curiosity and willingness to develop across multiple teams, as that is the reality of a training contract. It's definitely important to show an interest in their work, but try to find a few areas that you like and can link back to yourself.

You can still be personal and specific - just make sure it's frame as one part of your motivation, rather than the main focus of it.

I hope that helps!

Thank you! I really appreciate the time you put into your responses! Very helpful 😊

 

[cb6056]

Has anyone been rejected post Macfarlanes VI?

 

[M_m]

Hi!

Just thought I'd add my perspective to this as someone at Reed Smith - this is a really common issue, so don't feel bad! From the graduate recruitment perspective, as you aren't guaranteed to get a seat in a specific area, it's better to show an 'open minded' attitude towards practice areas you are interested in. You can still mention the areas you are interested in (and that is definitely encouraged!), but it's good to mention a few, even if you focus on one a little more. As a side note for future reference, the London office at Reed Smith doesn't work in the Life Sciences sector (as this is our US offices), so I'd keep that in mind if you reapply!

Firms do want to see genuine interest while still believing your open-minded enough to explore different seats during training. A helpful way to do this could be:

1. Anchor your "Why RS" in things that show you understand the firm's broader identity

For example, the firm's sector-driven approach, its collaborative culture, its international platform, the variety offered through seat rotations, or the type of clients it works with. These are wider characteristics that don't tie you to one area but still show firm-specific research.

2. Bring in your practice-area interest as one example of how RS aligns with you

This could look something like: "I was initially drawn to Reed Smith due to their Life Sciences work, given my background in X. However, what appeals to me most is the chance to explore a range of practices within a sector-focused firm, because...". This way, it feels like a point of connection and tailors it to your experiences, whilst also discussing other areas you are interested in.

3. Emphasise genuine openness

Even if you do like a specific area (which is completely fine!), firms still want to see curiosity and willingness to develop across multiple teams, as that is the reality of a training contract. It's definitely important to show an interest in their work, but try to find a few areas that you like and can link back to yourself.

You can still be personal and specific - just make sure it's frame as one part of your motivation, rather than the main focus of it.

I hope that helps!

Hi @Abbie Whitlock, thanks for such a detailed response. Do you think it would be okay to mention two practice areas/ industry groups? And then perhaps align it with the firm’s sector focused approach?

 

[FutureAntitrustLawyer]

Anyone that’s done Akin TI pm pls!

Congrats!! Just out of curiosity, how long did they take to get back to you and what were your strengths (if you're comfortable sharing)?

 

[sooae]

Has anyone heard from Willkie recently? Sent my app a month ago so kinda expecting a rejection now🥲

 

[gao8899]

Hey @Abbie Whitlock
I was wondering whether you'd have any advice on the Reed Smith VI and 'high potential assessment'? Maybe around what the firm's looking for skills/experience wise?
Thank you so much!