General Discussion Thread 2020-21

[Adam Gilchrist]

Anything someone wouldn’t say in conversation basically.

Too many people get the thesaurus out to find a supposedly more articulate/educated/flamboyant version of a word thinking it will sound impressive. It usually has the opposite effect

Out of idle curiosity, does grad rec hate the word "passionate" in applications? I knew several admissions tutors, all of whom loathed seeing the word in a personal statement...does that hatred transfer across to grad rec?

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

Out of idle curiosity, does grad rec hate the word "passionate" in applications? I knew several admissions tutors, all of whom loathed seeing the word in a personal statement...does that hatred transfer across to grad rec?

It is fine as long as you are truly passionate and explain why. Just stating that you are passionate about X practice area is too superficial.

 

[PhoebeL]

Is anyone else attending the Shearman & Sterling open day tomorrow?

 

[LegalNim]

I would still apply, if you did excellent in modules relevant to the firm they may see past the lower grades. Also if you have mitigating circumstances you can mention these too

Thank you. I did a non-law undergrad so nothing is particularly relevant from that - although I did achieve over 80% in my GDL master's.

 

[Lawgirl123]

Is anyone else attending the Shearman & Sterling open day tomorrow?

I am attending!

 

[PhoebeL]

Thank you. I did a non-law undergrad so nothing is particularly relevant from that - although I did achieve over 80% in my GDL master's.

You obviously demonstrate a great aptitude based on your GDL result so I would still apply and have confidence in your overall app!

 

[Imababysolicitor]

Did it this morning. I found it a bit of a mixed bag. Some questions were good and some were hard. How did you find it?

I haven’t been invited yet, just want to be extra prepared haha. When did you apply? And did they respond within the 10working days? Would you say the questions were like typical video interview questions? Sorry for all the questions!

 

[FM302989]

Just received my rejection from Herbert Smith Freehills. Gutted and seriously frustrated given how long this took around full-time work...alas, onto the next and to (probably) a better opportunity

 

[Deleted member 2707]

Just received my rejection from Herbert Smith Freehills. Gutted and seriously frustrated given how long this took around full-time work...alas, onto the next and to (probably) a better opportunity

I'm so sorry to hear that- when did you apply if you don't mind me asking?

 

[FM302989]

I'm so sorry to hear that- when did you apply if you don't mind me asking?

I applied for the Winter Vac Scheme on 30.09. You then have 7 days to do the tests which I did on 04.10. I passed these then my application was 'under review'

 

[Deleted member 2707]

I applied for the Winter Vac Scheme on 30.09. You then have 7 days to do the tests which I did on 04.10. I passed these then my application was 'under review'

Ah I see. I applied around the same time as you so hopefully I'll hear back soon. Best of luck with your other applications!

 

[FM302989]

The feedback email advises that they look for the certain competencies in the application form. I'm gonna share this below as I'm sure it will apply to plenty of firms.

My problem is I can't be certain where I fell short given that I've graduated with 2:1s across the board, completed the LPC, have a year of quality Paralegal experience, had multiple part-time jobs while studying, do tons of extra-curriculars and a Vacation Scheme under my belt.

Alas, the lesson is carry on and target firms that offer the work you're genuinely interested in and that you've got the skills and profile for. I was interested in HSF, but I never really set my heart on them, they're just one of the few that offer Winter Vac Schemes. I have a Vac Scheme lined up in Spring which I'm really excited and passionate about.

_ _ _

Academic qualifications - We expect candidates to have had a strong record of academic achievement through each year at university. We feel it is important that we set these high academic criteria, as a good predictor of success in our professional exams and performance as a trainee. Please note that we do take into consideration any mitigating circumstances that may have affected your academic performance.

Skills and achievements, extra-curricular activities, scholarships, prizes, positions of responsibility and work experience. These are important and provide us with evidence of skills such as taking responsibility, motivation and drive, and planning and organisation. These questions also enable us to assess your ability to write clearly and concisely and your attention to detail.

 

[Legal_rawn]

Does anyone know the application process for Sidley? After the application form are there any tests or video interviews?

 

[bel123456]

nope! straight to an interview, or straight to a rejection

Does anyone know the application process for Sidley? After the application form are there any tests or video interviews?

 

[DrowninginSQE]

S

nope! straight to an interview, or straight to a rejection

Still not got either from the last recruitment cycle...

 

[IntrepidL]

Hello, have just been invited to the next stage for Simmons & Simmons, including their video interview and written exercise (I think this is a new element)! Does anyone have any advice in relation to this?

 

[AH97]

Hello, have just been invited to the next stage for Simmons & Simmons, including their video interview and written exercise (I think this is a new element)! Does anyone have any advice in relation to this?

I did the VI 2 years ago so it may have changed, but feel free to PM me!

 

[Deleted member 4851]

S

Still not got either from the last recruitment cycle...

I got a direct TC rejection from them two weeks ago (applied in July I think) . So I guess it is good that you have not heard anything yet.

 

[Velikilawyer123]

@Jessica Booker Jessica, when writing a cover letter, should we include our and / or the firm's address at the top? What about if word count or page space are cramped, should we include addresses even if it's limiting the content we can write?

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

@Jessica Booker Jessica, when writing a cover letter, should we include our and / or the firm's address at the top? What about if word count or page space are cramped, should we include addresses even if it's limiting the content we can write?

If you can format it - for instance if it is an uploaded document

Or you can align it like you can on this forum​

General rule is to go with all the formalities, even if it cuts down your space.

You can write multiple lines of your address on the same line if you are really scrambling for an extra line or two - eg:

Flat 8, 24 Sun Road
London, W14 8BV

Also play around with your line spacing. That sometimes helps if you need a little extra space.