TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Tattyasha]

I'm not usually the one to complain about rejections, just perplexed at what could've possibly gone wrong. Added multiple internships to my CV, went to ASCAC, attended their online open day twice, spoke to their trainees, had my application reviewed....etc.

I don't know if my mid 2:1 law degree at a top RG uni was the dealbreaker, but would be much more content if they simply say they strongly prefer Oxbridge students or those with a first-class degree. I really don't mind law firms being openly and honestly elitist, but saying you're diverse and acting like it are completely different things...

If it helps I have really naff grades and did my degree from home, scraping a 2:1, have BCC at A Level and awful GCSEs. Degree was through the uni of London international but still, not oxbridge. I also went to insight evening last year and was rejected but managed to progress this cycle.
I totally get the hurt as I’ve been there myself but don’t underestimate how competitive it is. Some of this is a numbers game and comes down to luck. Keep going, you’re doing brilliantly 🌟

 

[Shandy101]

I'm not usually the one to complain about rejections, just perplexed at what could've possibly gone wrong. Added multiple internships to my CV, went to ASCAC, attended their online open day twice, spoke to their trainees, had my application reviewed....etc.

I don't know if my mid 2:1 law degree at a top RG uni was the dealbreaker, but would be much more content if they simply say they strongly prefer Oxbridge students or those with a first-class degree. I really don't mind law firms being openly and honestly elitist, but saying you're diverse and acting like it are completely different things...

I think you should definitively reflect on this after the cycle. You have other apps in play and you need to remain in the positive headspace to continue with those. I got rejected by post app Weil in 2022, 23 and for direct TC. This time, I've got a VI with the exact same experience and grades I applied with before- mid-2:1 from an RG Uni, so stay positive things will happen for you. I also got Skadden with those grades. I got a 59 in Crim law in the first year, too 😂😂.

 

[Tattyasha]

Did anyone here get progressed with Skadden who has also applied in the past?

I’m getting the impression that they don’t progress people who have applied in previous cycles

Yep, rejected last year but progressed this time. It’s so incredibly competitive. Keep an open mind and pick yourself up. It’s all about the resilience and let’s face it, we need it in abundance in this game 🤝

 

[ECNWalker]

Anyone understand when the deadline is for the Mishcon VI? Doesn’t seem to say when you log into their portal. Also, is the ‘tips’ video working for anyone?

 

[Rus]

Odd question but do firms customise their PFO responses? Like, is the wording any indication of their feedback, or is it all the same?

 

[Cool pigeon]

Kirkland VI - any advice?

 

[Tattyasha]

Who and which podcast?

Commerce meets Law - YouTube and Spotify. 1586 applications last year. Inviting 250 to written assessment this year, 120 to virtual interview with two lawyers and 70 across 4 vac schemes, circa 20 TCs

 

[Tcvspfo]

Wish you drafted the Skadden pfo email 😂 This is so sweet of you! The email was kind of rude for no reason. This is what I needed Thanks for being kind

Thank you for your kind words appreciate it and I know how you and others feel as I had been rejected from them before even after strong application. But I guess some firms have to be ruthless in their application process.

Also I will say that I have met Skadden grad rec in person and he seems like a nice person and he does try to help people when he can.

 

[Shandy101]

Who and which podcast?

 

[futuretrainee2503]

Thank you for your kind words appreciate it and I know how you and others feel as I had been rejected from them before even after strong application. But I guess some firms have to be ruthless in their application process.

Also I will say that I have met Skadden grad rec in person and he seems like a nice person and he does try to help people when he can.

My post was definitely not a shade to the grad rec team at all. I just felt it not necessary to add the line “you were not a top candidate”. It feels demoralising when it comes from grad rec who have read your app and makes me think if I have what it takes.

They could have just said “we received stronger candidates”. I’m sure they are all great

 

[User5678]

Those who applied to Watson Farley Williams, I cannot seem to find a dedicated area for mitigating circumstances?

Where did you enter this info?
Any insights will be super helpful

Thanks

 

[Tcvspfo]

My post was definitely not a shade to the grad rec team at all. I just felt it not necessary to add the line “you were not a top candidate”. It feels demoralising when it comes from grad rec who have read your app and makes me think if I have what it takes.

They could have just said “we received stronger candidates”. I’m sure they are all great

Am sorry to hear that and know what you mean.

Some firms need to write their emails better as it can be emotionally draining hearing words like that so I feel your pain.

It is like I would rather be ghosted than hearing evil words like those.

Don't worry too much about it and there is still a long week ahead of you and I hope you receive some good news with apps this week.

 

[Mug Fan]

Anyone understand when the deadline is for the Mishcon VI? Doesn’t seem to say when you log into their portal. Also, is the ‘tips’ video working for anyone?

Can I ask when you applied and when you were invited to Mishcon on pls?

 

[Jessica Booker]

Odd question but do firms customise their PFO responses? Like, is the wording any indication of their feedback, or is it all the same?

Some firms do tailor emails to different groups of candidates - not all do though.

 

[The-PFO-Collector]

Odd question but do firms customise their PFO responses? Like, is the wording any indication of their feedback, or is it all the same?

With 1000-3000 applications, I doubt they ever customise them.

 

[BillSikes]

For interview questions that are 'what would you do' in a certain situation - do we need to give an example from our experience that relates to the question?

 

[evianmineral]

Anyone understand when the deadline is for the Mishcon VI? Doesn’t seem to say when you log into their portal. Also, is the ‘tips’ video working for anyone?

7 days from being sent - its on their FAQs - have no idea why its not on the email or on the page where you go to take the test

 

[tcla888]

Is it a bad idea for a 'why this firm question?' to talk about a sector that isn't their largest/most profitable? It's still one of their core six. I was also thinking about breaking the question down into practice area, legal tech, and how my degree relates to the outlook of the firm. Is there anything else I could add to improve my answer? Many thanks, @Jessica Booker

 

[BBsharkk]

I think you should definitively reflect on this after the cycle. You have other apps in play and you need to remain in the positive headspace to continue with those. I got rejected by post app Weil in 2022, 23 and for direct TC. This time, I've got a VI with the exact same experience and grades I applied with before- mid-2:1 from an RG Uni, so stay positive things will happen for you. I also got Skadden with those grades. I got a 59 in Crim law in the first year, too 😂😂.

Thank you! That was indeed very reassuring. I really wish you all the best in the later stages.
Can I ask what's your approach in re-applying to the same firm in subsequent cycles? How did you go about changing your answers given that there wasn't much that was significantly wrong in your first app?

 

[Hamaaida Khan]

Weil VI!!

Hi! Congratulations!!! I received an invitation for the VI as well. Do you have any tips on how I should prepare for it? Thanks!