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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2021-22 (#1)
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@Jessica Booker
Hi guys - I just have a couple of queries about the wording of questions on the Macfarlanes and Sidley Austin VS apps:
1. I presume being asked to talk about one's "extra-curricular interests" is aimed towards hobbies like enjoying computer programming in my spare time, being a member of a band, playing sport, etc - rather than extra-curricular activities which could not be easily described as interests (like being a member of a university pro bono committee)?
2. The Sidley Austin app gives candidates 250 words to talk about "what qualities make a successful lawyer" - do you reckon that candidates should link these qualities back to themselves, or back to the work that a lawyer would typically do (or would either suffice?)
Hi guys - I just have a couple of queries about the wording of questions on the Macfarlanes and Sidley Austin VS apps:
1. I presume being asked to talk about one's "extra-curricular interests" is aimed towards hobbies like enjoying computer programming in my spare time, being a member of a band, playing sport, etc - rather than extra-curricular activities which could not be easily described as interests (like being a member of a university pro bono committee)?
2. The Sidley Austin app gives candidates 250 words to talk about "what qualities make a successful lawyer" - do you reckon that candidates should link these qualities back to themselves, or back to the work that a lawyer would typically do (or would either suffice?)
Stick to why this firm- adding points about why commercial law will be irrelevant here.
Re: Sidley I would focus on justifying why those qualities make a successful lawyer, rather than relating them to yourself. If you can draft your work experience or something like that in a way which shows you have those qualities, that wouldn't hurt if you really want to get it in there somehow. I would also be prepared to discuss how you have developed and/or demonstrated those qualities at interview.
This cycle I’ve been utilising this section to talk about my decision to go into law as a career changer especially as I work in the Civil Service! I feel like it helps give a nice narrative that wouldn’t fit in a lot of applications!
Hi! I am freaking out a bit as I have just realised that in one of my applications I used "practises" to refer to practices/practice areas. I am not a native English speaker, so I tend to be quite anxious about making any spelling or grammar mistakes and always double-check. I don't know how this happened... Is this a mistake that natives notice straightaway, or do I have any chance of having my application progressed to the next round?
Has anyone re-applied to Jones Day after interviewing there and being unsuccessful? Their website says:
I interviewed in 2019 and have improved since my interview, just wondering if this would be acceptable gap or whether you're essentially black listed from every applying again?
- Please note: 1. It is not our policy to reassess candidates who have previously interviewed or attended a placement scheme with us and been unsuccessful in their application. 2. Whilst we do not preclude candidates from re-applying if they have not previously interviewed with us, since our criteria for selecting candidates to attend our schemes remain the same year on year, if you have been unsuccessful one year, it would be unlikely that you would be successful a following year. However, if your profile has improved considerably since your last application and you would like to reapply, you should highlight why your profile has changed in any new application and covering letter.
I interviewed in 2019 and have improved since my interview, just wondering if this would be acceptable gap or whether you're essentially black listed from every applying again?
Hi all, I am finishing off my application for Taylor Wessing (bit last minute I know). There is one question that has really stumped me and I would be grateful for some advice:
- We strive for excellence for our clients and people. What will drive you to deliver excellent client service? (250)
Its not necessarily the content I'm struggling with, its more how to structure the response. I think its asking about what my motivations are for providing services to clients? In which case, would it be best to mention two or three key motivational points. Would I link these to my own experiences or back to the firm? both? honestly so confused 🤣
- We strive for excellence for our clients and people. What will drive you to deliver excellent client service? (250)
Its not necessarily the content I'm struggling with, its more how to structure the response. I think its asking about what my motivations are for providing services to clients? In which case, would it be best to mention two or three key motivational points. Would I link these to my own experiences or back to the firm? both? honestly so confused 🤣
Hi guys,
The Willkie video interview links will be sent this week, I was wondering if anyone had any hints or tips on what to look at? Also does anyone know how long the prep time/talking time is? Thank you @James Carrabino
The Willkie video interview links will be sent this week, I was wondering if anyone had any hints or tips on what to look at? Also does anyone know how long the prep time/talking time is? Thank you @James Carrabino
Hi all, I have VI's and AC's and I am preparing the 'tell me about yourself' question but I am not sure how to structure it or how much detail I should include. Does anyone have any advice?
Would a simple, I am doing this degree, I achieved x grade, I am currently doing X job(s) be enough.
Would a simple, I am doing this degree, I achieved x grade, I am currently doing X job(s) be enough.
I believe it's non-rolling, although some here in the forum has received the apt-test.
Submitted mine in mid-December but I regret for my structuring. Sincerely I should put more emphasis on my motivation particularly on serving client, what I have done and why I liked it, instead of having too much baffling info on what the firm does or is famous for.
I really struggled with this question haha! I think it’s completely up to you, for example, if you liked serving clients in the past for a specific reason you could reference this, however you may also explain that something the firm does interests you and will inspire you to go the extra mile for clients.
I assume it is open to however you interpret it!
They definitely asked for work experience in the spring vac scheme app. What are you applying for?
Best of luck with this, hope you receive positive news soon! How many questions did they ask during that 35-minute period? I'm just trying to see how long I should spend on each answer.A mix of competency/strength-based and motivational questions + commercial awareness (e.g. news story, recent deal). We talked for 30-35 minutes, they were super nice and the conversation went smoothly. Overall, a very positive experience!
@George Maxwell hi, I have an AC soon with HSF and I am a bit nervous (and reeeealllyy keen to do well) and I am not quite sure what to expect. I was wondering if you might be able to offer any advice as I saw on here you (I think?) were successful at a VS AC? many thanks!
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