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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2021-22 (#1)
- Thread starter Jaysen
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Hi @jamesfp,
First of all, huge congratulations for getting on the scheme. I am sure you know, but W&C get a scary number of applicants for each place they have on their vacation schemes, so it really is a massive achievement to have got this far.
Second, I really loved the firm. As a result my training contract decision was very difficult.
It is a tough vacation scheme and they are looking to test you. Out of the three I did, it was one of the most strenuous. Having said that, I felt very supported throughout (the GR team are really lovely) and am still in touch with a number of the others who completed the scheme with me.
My general tips would be:
1. Make the most of the opportunity. The tasks that you are given are difficult and they are designed to be testing. Some are also harder than others, so be aware of that and make sure you are putting aside enough time for each during the scheme. Be strict with yourself on this too. Do not leave it all to the last minute.
However, remember that everyone will be finding them tough. Just because people are not necessarily admitting to it, does not mean that they are finding everything easy(!).
2. Be proactive. W&C are a firm which admires and likes proactivity. Take a look at their practice areas in London and think which you are interested in. Ask your buddy/supervisor when you arrive whether they know of anyone in X, Y, Z practice areas and whether it would be possible to speak with them.
Be proactive (and ambitious) too in terms of your work. Go the extra mile and ask if there is anything more that you can do to be helpful.
3. Actively seek feedback. This is something that I found really useful in terms of my professional development and is, I think, an attribute that my supervisor and buddy liked. Ultimately the VS is an opportunity for you to trial being a trainee, so act like you would if you were one.
Personally, I wanted (and want) to improve from as early in my career as possible. Getting an insight into my strengths and weaknesses at this stage (i.e., on a VS) was (and is) invaluable. I would highly advise you to seek feedback too.
4. Make sure you read instructions. I have heard that in previous years some people failed to read the task instructions carefully enough. This resulted in missing off a key document, meaning that they did not get the TC(!).
5. With regards to the TC interview: practice. In fact, practice as many times as you can and time yourself. Explain why you chose your topic (this will make sense when you get on the scheme) and go above and beyond with your research. This will show an active interest. The presentation is short, however, so do not try to fit too much in.
6. Really think about whether this is a firm where you want to work. Ask questions (but don't just for the sake of it as it makes zero difference) during presentations. Be your authentic self and question whether or not you 'fit' at the firm. If you think you do, and you do the above, I am sure that you will do very well.
7. This is more of an over-arching point, but it really is invaluable: check your work. Spelling mistakes in emails are easy to make and when made, they make a big difference. So before you send an email, read it back-to-front, re-read it and then send it (this thread might be helpful). Taking 30 seconds before sending an email is a very good way to avoid silly errors and will save you a lot of stress in the end.
Incidentally, is your VS in person?
I really do wish you the very best of luck.
Please do reach out if you would like any more advice 🏎️
On my Clifford Chance portal it says updated today and I submitted over a week ago. Is this a good sign or not? I’m worried I’ve been rejected already
hey does anyone know what word count we should aim for in the MoFo application? there’s no actual word count provided… I was thinking 300 words? Or is that too little?
It probably just means they downloaded/viewed your app. Try not to stress too much 😊
Hey! I am not sure about this but this is what I guess (I think updated is when you accessed you app again and therefore it is updated) like you updated it it yourself because it shows the same for me.
I'm not sure how correct I am, but the lack of word count will be intentional and that made me think it was part of the test. I think as long as you're saying what you need to say without being verbose and overdoing it, you should be fine! Not sure if that makes sense, but I thought it might be helpful.
I think it displays when they viewed your application but you may be right.
Ugh I noticed that for my response for one of my questions I wrote "I have" twice.... so the statement reads this: "As a student academic mentor of five first year law students since September 2020, I have I have helped my mentees adjust to university..."
is this an automatic PFO? I think my grammar and spelling otherwise is consistent and correct- this seems to be the only mistake.
Dw as much about it Jessica mentioned many people that this never affected them as long as your app quality is high. Goodluck <3
Is it normal to still be able to update and edit your app for CC? I recently submitted my app but second guessed if it really went through because im still able to edit it ?!
Also has anyone received a WG link for the NRF spring vac yet? If not does anyone happen to know when we may expect to receive a wg link if they decide to progress with your app?
I think grad must have been busy with winter vs so far. I submitted my app for spring on 16th and haven't heard back too, hope that helps
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