TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

White & Case PFO !

I never liked you anyway x

(I did like them, I really did. They were top three on the list *sobs*)

Same boat

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

W&C PFO today. genuinely annoyed with that one cause it is a firm I really like but...we move ig

Relationship ended with W&C, C&B is my new friend now

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

how can i prepare for a written task where I need to draft an argument? @Abbie Whitlock

Hey!

For this type of written task, I would say that the focus should be on structure and prioritisation rather than perfect legal knowledge. Therefore, I'd focus on the following areas:

1. Start with a clear stance / position: state your conclusion or recommendation upfront so that the assessor knows exactly what you are arguing (almost like an executive summary)
2. Use a logical structure: there isn't necessarily a strict one you have to follow, but I would briefly set out the facts, identify the key issues, and then deal with each point in turn - just make sure to explain why each point supports your argument. It might help to utilise headings for your answer.
3. Be selective and prioritise: you might not have time to cover absolutely everything, so I would pick the strongest points and develop them properly, rather than listing lots of weaker ones in less depth.
4. Acknowledge counterarguments: as you would in a university essay, I would briefly acknowledge them to show judgment and balance, especially if you then explain why they don't outweigh your conclusion (i.e. why your argument is stronger)
5. Write clearly and commercially: you should aim to be concise and clear - try not to waffle (easier said than done, I know!) and try to keep the client's objectives in mind when you are answering.

It really helps to practice these sorts of exercises under time pressure - for instance, you could take a commercial article and summarise it into an argument in 30-45 minutes. This will help build your confidence for the real thing!

I hope that assists, and best of luck!

 

[Donna Paulsen]

Relationship ended with W&C, C&B is my new friend now

Omg did you get Covington AC? I haven't heard anything

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Omg did you get Covington AC? I haven't heard anything

Yeah very randomly but I get a feeling they are doing it in batches maybe idk idk
It's also really stressful cause I've asked for insights and nobody has answered

 

[Donna Paulsen]

Yeah very randomly but I get a feeling they are doing it in batches maybe idk idk
It's also really stressful cause I've asked for insights and nobody has answered

Guys pls give this wonderful gal some insights
And @Covington hmu babes xx

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Guys pls give this wonderful gal some insights
And @Covington hmu babes xx

When I go to their office, I'll ask them for you babe dw x

 

[Gottagetthroughthis101]

Anyone gotten any PFO's post Reed Smith AC yet?

 

[marshall]

Relationship ended with W&C, C&B is my new friend now

Did you do the VI from W&C?

 

[trainee4u]

just realised I didn't do the Trowers Cappfinity. FML.

 

[choicefox212]

echoing someone else in this thread - would love some advice on the fladgate SJT because the email was vague enough to make me nervous

 

[Novaa]

Relationship ended with W&C, C&B is my new friend now

Note: your selection of GIFS and reaction pictures >>> *Chefs Kiss*

Now for my main point, this is going to sound soooo crazy but I just woke up and I remembered a TikTok I watched today.

He was doing videos on securing a TC in Dec 2025, and my nosy self noticed he had a badge so I flipped my phone and it said Covington. (Showing how nosy I am )

Idk if he’s here, BUT if you felt like dropping a TikTok comment or DM’ing him. I can message you the page.

If not… GUYS HELP JESSICA OUT WITH THOSE INSIGHTS! I know there’s at least 5 of you who did the winter AC (I’ve counted three so far )

 

[ADhillon01]

echoing someone else in this thread - would love some advice on the fladgate SJT because the email was vague enough to make me nervous

I was out and got the assessment email as well for this, am also very confused!

 

[Donna Paulsen]

Tip: play subway surfers whilst you listen to your commercial awareness podcasts. Really helps your brain digest the info xx

 

[Novaa]

Tip: play subway surfers whilst you listen to your commercial awareness podcasts. Really helps your brain digest the info xx

Wait… drop the podcasts pls

Going to try this out!! #Multitasking

 

[Donna Paulsen]

Wait… drop the podcasts pls

Going to try this out!! #Multitasking

FT’s Tech Tonic and AllAboutLaw’s Commercial Awareness Compass are my faves

Something about the repetitive and predictable movements helps my brain focus on the podcast better as it keeps my brain engaged without distracting me#attentionspan #brainrot #ipadkid

 

[Novaa]

FT’s Tech Tonic and AllAboutLaw’s Commercial Awareness Compass are my faves

Something about the repetitive and predictable movements helps my brain focus on the podcast better as it keeps my brain engaged without distracting me#attentionspan #brainrot #ipadkid

I’m back from changing the narrative and trying this instead of playing Angry Birds with a TikTok live on my phone while watching Love Island!

Listened to the “Tech in 2026: Silicon Valley's power plays and players” episode.

My high score was 53,802 and here are my takeaways from what THEY said…

- The FTC is in a silly goofy mood, like yeahhh those antitrust cases against Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta? Forget about it

- Grok might go to App Store jail, and Ani is weird (Grok’s AI companion model thing?)

- Musk and Zuckerberg are in charge of the Silicon Valley x Washington DC fan club (Both are fighting loser allegations...)

- The Metaverse is in its flop era… the Meta Ray Bans are not. But there’s a generational divide on whether they’re weird or not.

- The Republicans are in their employment era, and the Meta board of directors are loving them.

- Microsoft wants no part in this mess (Apparently? )

- Google tripped at the start of the race and has caught up (Gemini, Notebook LLM) and is currently the 2nd most profitable company in the world behind Nvidia and those damn chips…

- The data centres… 2050 is around the corner, and that carbon footprint is getting interesting, but I thought COP28 had a goal for…? People may also start launching legal action as more are built in residential areas

- Also we may see more AI-based litigation from consumers due to AIs integration in a lot of businesses now and the reliance on the potentially incorrect/biased information it generates. (Employment & Insurance)



 

[Bruce Wayne Attorney at Law]

Congratulations @radssss @fTS3002 @Mart1nVa1l @Chak ! I would like to be added to the group as well. If anyone has insights on Proskauer's assessment day can swap with insights for Links AC, Hogan AC, Latham VS insights, and a few others that maybe of relevance to you.

 

[Ijustwanttobealawyer]

Is there still hope in hearing from Gibson Dunn post SJT for summer scheme?

 

[johnsmith]

Yeah very randomly but I get a feeling they are doing it in batches maybe idk idk
It's also really stressful cause I've asked for insights and nobody has answered

They have more AC dates for next week as I had a potential clash and queried it! I’d be more interested to know how many TCs are left after the WVS.