TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[user55998384]

for those who have already applied to macfarlanes - how many ish words did you write for each work exp entry - dont want to go into too much detail as they have specifically said bullet points (mine are around 100-150 is this too long)?

 

[sarg1234]

for those who have already applied to macfarlanes - how many ish words did you write for each work exp entry - dont want to go into too much detail as they have specifically said bullet points (mine are around 100-150 is this too long)?

If its any consolation that's about what I wrote.

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Looking for advice on this. I drafted my work experience from scratch without using any AI tools but when checking AI detection online on websites it says 90% AI similarities. I am trying to submit Macfarlanes app but don't know what I should do as I wrote the work experience without using AI. @Abbie Whitlock any advice on this.

Hi!

From my understanding, most firms don't use AI detection tools when reviewing applications, particularly because they can be quite hit or miss and aren't necessarily reliable indicators of whether something has actually been written using AI.

Instead, I think firms are much more likely to read the work experience itself and assess whether it sounds genuine and reflects the candidate's own experiences. From my brief time in the Early Careers team at Reed Smith during my Professional SQE Year, I found that it can actually be quite easy to tell when someone has written something with AI versus when they have written it themselves.

I would try not to worry too much about the percentage you are getting from these online AI checkers, especially as you know that you wrote the work experience yourself. These tools can flag perfectly genuine writing, so a high score doesn't necessarily mean that your application will be viewed as AI-generated.

If you are happy with the content and it accurately reflects your own experience, I would be comfortable submitting it as it is

 

[amitonalfo]

@Abbie Whitlock is there any way we can get a commercial awareness/news updates (discussing impacts on law firms) forum up and running for 2026-2027? I noticed there were some still up for 2021 where anyoje could respond but no updated ones. I think this would be very helpful!

 

[Hon123]

Hello! I am hoping to complete the Macfarlanes' Second stage Simulate assessment soon so any insight or advice would be welcome.

 

[AS24]

Hi, for those applying to simpson, do we refer to the firm as Simpson Thacher & Bartlett or just Simpson Thacher?

 

[sagekensuke]

Hi, for those applying to simpson, do we refer to the firm as Simpson Thacher & Bartlett or just Simpson Thacher?

I think as a general rule just refer to how the firm refers to themselves in the application form? Simpson Thacher is fine based on that

 

[rrr]

for those who have already applied to macfarlanes - how many ish words did you write for each work exp entry - dont want to go into too much detail as they have specifically said bullet points (mine are around 100-150 is this too long)?

lwk shivering bc i didn't put bullet points...

 

[Legal12345]

How essential is having a link with the firm for getting to AC stage? I got 3 ACs last cycle and I had virtually met each firm so I was just wondering if I needed to replicate this for more firms this cycle to have a better chance at progressing.

 

[1136PX0]

How essential is having a link with the firm for getting to AC stage? I got 3 ACs last cycle and I had virtually met each firm so I was just wondering if I needed to replicate this for more firms this cycle to have a better chance at progressing.

Conversely, I had 4 ACs and hadn't met any of them

 

[AS24]

I think as a general rule just refer to how the firm refers to themselves in the application form? Simpson Thacher is fine based on that

Thank you

 

[AS24]

Hi @Abbie Whitlock, I trust you are well.

I am trying to answer Simpson Thacher second question " How have your extracurricular activities contributed to your development of skills relevant to a career in corporate law?"

Do you think we need to connect it to simpson's expertise, strategy or culture? Would you say something like, having played footballl etc..developed x skills which will allow me on deals such as..,

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

How essential is having a link with the firm for getting to AC stage? I got 3 ACs last cycle and I had virtually met each firm so I was just wondering if I needed to replicate this for more firms this cycle to have a better chance at progressing.

Hi!

Just to add to other comments already made, I'd say it definitely isn't essential. Of the three firms I applied to and received VS or DTC offers from last cycle, I'd only attended an open day at one of them.

I think the key thing is making sure you are able to demonstrate genuine motivation for the firm and show that you have done your research. There are plenty of ways to build that knowledge without meeting the firm or attending an event - for example, speaking to trainees/associates online, attending virtual events, following the firm's recent work and deals, and doing your own research into its practice areas and culture.

Having a connection with the firm can sometimes give you more to talk about and may help you stand out, but I wouldn't feel that you need to attend an event at every firm you apply to. If you can demonstrate a strong understanding of why you are applying and why that particular firm appeals to you through other means, that can be just as valuable!

 

[user55998384]

for people who applied to macs, just weary there is no written app so in the work exp section would you make a direct link to the firm being or no coz it feels a bit forced?

 

[BM99]

Does anyone know where we can sign up to Ashurst Perkins Coie's mini virtual series?

 

[user55998384]

is the macfarlanes camera only on in the stage 2 for the vis?