Recent content by Amma Usman

  1. Amma Usman

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    I can’t seem to find this from their site, but in any case I always recommend applying if interested - you never know!
  2. Amma Usman

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    I’ve quoted a great post by @Ram Sabaratnam to help.
  3. Amma Usman

    Shoosmiths Assessment Centre June 2024

    Hey. I’m unsure about Shoosmiths in particular, but if you’re interested in AC insights we have an interview database with loads of experiences here - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/forums/interview-experiences-2021-2022.90/
  4. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I totally get how your mind’s probably racing right now, especially with that word “feedback” hanging in the air, but try not to worry too much. Easier said than done, I know, but nothing’s changed yet, and for all you know, it could be good news. In the meantime, do something to take your mind...
  5. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Mixed views on this. If you write that you turned it down, the recruiter may ask why in their head, which means you’ll need a compelling and well-thought-out reason that doesn’t suggest indecisiveness. But if you only mention you were offered the role, they may assume you’re now in the role...
  6. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    That’s a tough feeling, but try not to let the Browne Jacobson rejection get to you too much… the fact that Kingsley Napley came through just 10 minutes later is a clear reminder that timing isn’t always about luck, it’s about alignment. You’re still in the game, and every step (even the...
  7. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I completely understand the curiosity, and it's great that you're thinking critically about questions to ask. Personally, I’d approach this kind of thing with caution, especially in formal settings like interviews or ACs. It's important to remember that platforms like Glassdoor can be useful...
  8. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I am unsure about MdR, but I know the standard is a call for positive news and email for the opposite (at least at AC stage).
  9. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Congratulations on getting the interview. A 30-minute initial discussion can seem like a lot of time, but it actually goes by really quickly, so I don’t think they’ll go too deep into anything too technical. That said, it’s still worth preparing for a few key areas. You’ll likely be asked about...
  10. Amma Usman

    CC SPARK Experience/ Exit Interview

    Hi! First off, huge congratulations on securing a place on the Clifford Chance SPARK Scheme. That’s already a major achievement and you should be proud of getting this far. Now onto your questions. During the Scheme Be curious and engaged. Ask thoughtful questions and take a genuine...
  11. Amma Usman

    TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

    Hey. I’ve linked a couple above ;)
  12. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Please don’t worry. Retail and volunteering experience are really valuable. They show transferable skills like communication, teamwork and resilience that law firms highly value. For example, you could say something like, managing volunteering alongside part-time retail work helped you learn...
  13. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    This is definitely something that can be done, though it’s not something I see happen often. The firm will usually give you feedback on your vac scheme performance anyway, which some argue tends to be a more meaningful point for reflection. At this stage, especially if assessment centres are...
  14. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    I wouldn’t worry too much. Sometimes progression emails or next stage invites can be delayed for all sorts of reasons, especially around capacity or internal scheduling. It’s not always a reflection of how you’ve done. In the meantime, I’d really recommend using this period to keep building on...

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