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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

Abbie Whitlock

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Sep 11, 2025
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Hi @Andrei Radu @Abbie Whitlock
For the interview with a partner, when they ask "why X firm?" and when discussing what practice areas particularly interest me, would you recommend talking in depth about deals here or just being general and focusing on the rankings of the practice areas? Sorry to ask this silly question, as it's my first AC, so just trying to be prepared.
Hey!

Not a silly question at all!!

A good rule of thumb is depth over lists - you don't need to recite rankings, and partners aren't necessarily looking for a catalogue of deals either. Rankings can definitely be a starting point, but on their own they don't say much about why the practice area interests you.

For practice areas, it is usually strongest to:
  • Pick one or two areas that you are genuinely interested in
  • Mention briefly what the firm is known for in that area (this could be a headline deal, a sector focus, or a type of client that they work with)
  • Then go into more depth - explain what about that work appeals to you based on your past experiences and future career goals (e.g. the kind of clients, the mix of advisory vs transactional work, the exposure that trainees get, or how it links to your past experiences in a certain area).
You don't need lots of technical detail on deals, as the partners won't be testing recall, but being able to talk about a deal in a commercial way can show engagement with the firm and its work.

Overall, they'll be trying to understand your motivation and whether you have thought about how the firm's work aligns with you, rather than specific facts that you can memorise.

I hope that assists, and best of luck with the AC - I'm sure you'll do great!! :)
 
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