TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[tomsmitg]

Hi, what is the recommended dress code for an online interview usually?

 

[3000to1shoteverytime]

Hi, what is the recommended dress code for an online interview usually?

Same as in person - suit/jacket and tie

 

[lawadvice_23]

Vantage crashed 15 mins before HSF deadline and would not let me submit my application. Emailed them and attached all of the application info required. Theres not much else to do but pray for the best.

Same thing happened to me, did you hear back from them in the end?

 

[NCTC2025]

Praying for news today...preferably good but at this point any will do 😭

 

[RonRod13]

Did everyone get the email from skadden saying they’re reviewing applications?

 

[Amma Usman]

@Andrei Radu @Jessica Booker @Amma Usman @Ram Sabaratnam Hi guys, I just wanted some advice on the 'why this firm' element of a question. Do you think it is acceptable to talk just about for example training or do you think it could be quite generic. Would you suggest for the 'why this firm' aspect to link it back to a practice area or deal

Hey there @Unknowncabbage ,

This is a really good question. I personally struggled with this element, specifically due to the need to show specificity, as @Jessica Booker and @Andrei Radu had mentioned.

Now, on the training point, many firms offer similar training structures. Thus, it’ll be generic to mention a broad point on training such as secondment opportunities, an exposure to bro bono, and the likes. One area I have succeeded in mentioning with regards training is the small trainee intake of some firms. Now, even this would be generic without specificity. The way I navigated this was through saying why that size appealed to me, such as the exposure to more responsibilities early on in my career. Now, even this is just a level 1 answer. Following this, I would talk about how I thrived in a similar environment to showcase the skills I had and how they would transfer to that unique structure.

As @Andrei Radu said, training is not as strong as other points such as work - practices. Thus, this should be backed up by other, more specific points to fully cement your answer.

I’ve made a thread on this which I’ve linked below; https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/why-this-firm-🤔💭-crafting-applications.9119/

 

[SSR27]

I have accidentally submitted the application writing meta collection instead of meta data should I email them as it was an integral part of the application and if I got this wrong they will probably assume I got my source from an incorrect one or wasn't listening!! what should I do!

 

[James Wakefield]

Has anyone who applied in the last week got the test yet from TW?

 

[Amma Usman]

is there any point applying for Jones day summer VS - someone told me they are already doing ACs? thank you!

Hi @hazanelson , I see no harm in applying as firm’s have different deadlines for how frequently they invite candidates to ACs. I have also just checked and seen their deadline is in January, and although rolling, I believe it’s fine to apply as it‘s at least over two weeks before the deadline date.

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi, what is the recommended dress code for an online interview usually?

Hey @tomsmitg , I usually come prepared like it’s a real in-person interview - full suit. etc.

 

[OliverTwist]

Anyone else unable to link all hired 'my locker' to their latham app?

 

[SoonToBeTrainee]

I’m surprised Skadden has said that they’d get back with outcomes only 2 weeks after their deadline.

Reading ~2k(?) applications within the space of 2 weeks seems remarkably impressive for what I believe is a 1-2 person recruitment team.

Perhaps that’s normal? Or, perhaps they started screening applications before the deadline

 

[kokoprep]

Did everyone get the email from skadden saying they’re reviewing applications?

yep

 

[Amma Usman]

If you could choose a career other than law, what would you choose? - For this question, I guess everyone has different approaches but would it be unwise to use personal experience to back why certain aspects of the career chosen, appeals to you. I am a bit unsure how else you write a good answer without it, but then don't want to repeat my work experience unnecessarily I guess.

Hey @lolasparks , I believe it‘s fine to bring up personal experiences as well. However, avoid making them too personal. For example, I have seen candidates talking about individual figures to substantiate answers to questions of this type, and although great - the personalisation element would be missing. I would personally back up any personal experience with a practical academic or professional experience, to avoid falling into that trap. I also see no harm with repeating work experience. If you are specifically worried about repetition, you could look at an existing work experience you mentioned from a different angle - using another task you completed during that role instead.

If I were to answer this question, it would look a little something like this;

If I were to choose a career outside of law, I would pursue investment banking due to my keen interest in transactional work and corporate finance.

Corporate transactions fascinate me because they showcase how financial institutions create value in both public and private markets. In the public markets, I am particularly intrigued by mergers and acquisitions, especially the complexities of navigating exit strategies during IPOs to optimise outcomes for all stakeholders. This interest was solidified during my internship at an inter-dealer broker, where I observed how market changes for securities and derivatives directly impact transaction strategies and outcomes. Witnessing these dynamics in real-time deepened my appreciation for the role of investment bankers in managing such processes, aligning with my analytical mindset and passion for devising strategic solutions. In the private markets, my interest lies in the private equity sector, particularly in how private equity funds generate value through innovative approaches that are not always feasible in public markets. Attending an open day at [X Fund] offered me valuable insights into how data-driven strategies are employed to achieve these unique objectives.

This fascination with the corporate aspects of banking underpins my enthusiasm for transactional law, as it combines my passion for deal-making with legal expertise. It is also why I am particularly drawn to firms with a strong focus on M&A and private equity, where I can merge these interests into a dynamic and impactful career.

 

[Amma Usman]

would people say there's still point in applying to bird&bird or would it likely not even get screened at this point

Hey @member7830 , most firms receive the bulk of their applications nearer the deadline, usually less than two weeks prior. So, I feel you are in a good position to apply now albeit the rolling stance.

 

[g.cl.2020344]

Has any1 still not heard anything post ap from WC for WVS? I emailed them two weeks ago and nothing since…

 

[James Wakefield]

Just logged in to check my TW application after all the website bugs and errors.

I can see most of my application and that my cover letter is uploaded but I can’t see the answers to the job-specific answer questions. Anyone having the same problem?

 

[g.cl.2020344]

Also any1 heard post Ac from PWC

 

[Amma Usman]

The Importance Of A Support System During This Journey

The law firm application process can be a challenging and emotionally demanding journey, and having a strong support system can make a world of difference.

For me, my support system was my close friend, who was also navigating the same application cycle. Together, we shared the highs and lows, celebrating when we received assessment centre invites and consoling each other through rejections. Having someone who truly understood the process made it easier to stay motivated and keep going.

That said, support systems don’t always have to be individuals. They can also take the form of activities, routines, or even moments of joy that help you recharge and find balance. Personally, I found solace in my evening walks, where I could clear my mind, and in learning something new, which gave me a sense of accomplishment beyond applications. Treating myself to my favourite desserts also became a small but meaningful ritual that reminded me to take care of myself.

Whether it’s a friend, a hobby, or a quiet moment to yourself, finding something that supports you emotionally and mentally during this process is invaluable.

It’s important to remember that your well-being is just as important as the goals you’re working towards.

 

[Jessica Booker]

I’m surprised Skadden has said that they’d get back with outcomes only 2 weeks after their deadline.

Reading ~2k(?) applications within the space of 2 weeks seems remarkably impressive for what I believe is a 1-2 person recruitment team.

Perhaps that’s normal? Or, perhaps they started screening applications before the deadline

There might be more than 2 people reviewing forms - they can get the broader HR team to support or even get lawyers to support.

Even if that wasn’t the case, it is possible to read 2000 in two weeks even by one person - it’s completely mind numbing but it is possible (I’ve done it many times!).