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  1. Amma Usman

    Ask 4 future trainees ANYTHING! *New TCLA Team Members*

    Hey @lawyersum , thanks for the question. Just before @Ram Sabaratnam and @Andrei Radu get back to you as well, I’ve included a few points below; Any situation you choose is fine. Ultimately, the weight and impact of your answer is dependent on your ability to appropriately describe the...
  2. Amma Usman

    PRIVATE EQUITY : A BASIC GUIDE

    Hey @Iceemettyy , glad you found the thread useful! And yes, diversifying is so important at this stage - feel free to pop any questions in if you have them ;)
  3. Amma Usman

    50 Capital Markets Terms To Know

    Hey TCLA Community! In this thread, I’ve complied a list of 50 Capital Markets terms and their respective definitions. This will be particularly useful for those of you drawn to transactional law and are keen to know more about how these bustling financial markets work! The first step? You...
  4. Amma Usman

    10 Commercial Awareness Sources

    Hey all! I hope you’re all having a fantastic mid-week! I’ve included below 10 sources to help solidify that commercial awareness! Let’s keep going and building up on that skill everyday…!!! Pro-tip: Take building commercial awareness as a lego exercise - building little blocks everyday before...
  5. Amma Usman

    Simmons & Simmons Work Experience Section

    Hi @OVLD68 , great question. Some firms do put limits on how many experiences you can put in the boxes. In situations like this, I recommend inputting the key 4 experiences that are most relevant to the trainee solicitor role. It doesn’t have to be legal, just anything which can demonstrate a...
  6. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @KBanana I agree with @Ram Sabaratnam ‘s point that covering three practice areas within a 200-word limit may not be completely feasible, especially as you also want to address a training-related point. You will need to clearly expound on why each distinct practice area appeals to you...
  7. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Well done on sending off your first application @legal18 ! Goodluck with the cycle. We’re rooting for you all..! 🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀
  8. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi everyone, A quick reminder to maintain a constructive and respectful atmosphere in our discussions. Let’s focus on providing insightful feedback and avoid personal comments to ensure a positive, supportive environment. Thank you!
  9. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @IneedaTCASAP , well done! I’ve linked two pieces of advice from the team below; @Ram Sabaratnam : “As for video interviews, I think the key is to practice answering typical video interview questions as often as possible. You can do this by creating skeleton outlines for the standard...
  10. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @LawLawLawLawLaw , @Ram Sabaratnam has perfectly covered both questions. With regards your second question, @Andrei Radu has also made a guide on navigating VIs which I’ve linked below...
  11. Amma Usman

    Ask 4 future trainees ANYTHING! *New TCLA Team Members*

    Hey @legal18 , this is a good draft. I believe you could make a few tweaks to make it even stronger. As @Jessica Booker had pointed out, your answer should focus on your motivations more. You seem to sway more into the realm of why you, rather than why commercial law. I understand how easy it is...
  12. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @bsh , Sector focus is certainly a strong angle to take. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that this can sometimes come across as a bit generic, as many top law firms excel in similar sectors. To make your application stand out, it’s helpful to identify a niche within the sector that...
  13. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @hitherelaw , I recommend doing two things; - Putting your anticipated end date in the section (based on your employment contract). - If this doesn’t work, you could input in the description box something like ‘June 2023 - Current’, then begin on the next line with explaining your roles and...
  14. Amma Usman

    Ask 4 future trainees ANYTHING! *New TCLA Team Members*

    Hey @aspiringlawyer12 @Jessica Booker has really covered all the main things to look out for. I’ve also included some examples below on what I’ve encountered in past ACs on presentations centred to the client; 1. Highlight Risks and Opportunities: Beyond addressing the commercial issue...
  15. Amma Usman

    Paul Weiss Open Day

    Hey @tosin4774 , Your draft is impressive, and I like how you’ve linked your interest in M&A to specific experiences and research. I have a few suggestions that might make your application even stronger: 1. Avoid overly flowery language: For example, replacing “favourite” with a term like...
  16. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @Lastseasonwonder and @gazdgazd11. Similar to other firms, GDC’s requirements are a 2:1 or better and they take mitigating circumstances to account in the application form.
  17. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @Chelsea101 , just before @Andrei Radu @Ram Sabaratnam @Jessica Booker jump in, I’ve included a few pointers below: 1. Be Proactive from the Start: Law firms value self-starters who can anticipate needs and take initiative without waiting to be asked. On your first day, introduce yourself...
  18. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hey @Hana ♥ , the VS is surely on its way! I can’t emphasise the importance of attending open days, so it’s great you’ve got those three in the bag! Keep pushing and keep putting yourself out there! It’s only a matter of time.
  19. Amma Usman

    TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

    Hi @elsx This is a great question, and I understand why the wording might be a little confusing. The question asks you to showcase an example where you’ve taken responsibility for others. As @Ram Sabaratnam explained, this is really about demonstrating your leadership skills, accountability...

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