TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2021-22 (#1)

[Legalmel_99]

I didn’t realise gateley was a rolling basis 😕

 

[fm97]

Apologies if this has been covered by anyone- can't seem to find the answer so just going to ask the question now...

Still haven't heard anything from Ashurst re Winter Vac Scheme. Given that it's happening in 2 weeks' time, and it looks like they've been giving out offers, I'm not really expecting to now. I assume they have not managed to read my application (for the 2nd year). Thoughts on my requesting to withdraw my application so I can reapply to the Summer Vac Scheme instead? Has anyone done this/do you think there'll be issues as I've technically applied this cycle already?

Would love to hear anyone's opinion! Thanks

 

[Jessica Booker]

Apologies if this has been covered by anyone- can't seem to find the answer so just going to ask the question now...

Still haven't heard anything from Ashurst re Winter Vac Scheme. Given that it's happening in 2 weeks' time, and it looks like they've been giving out offers, I'm not really expecting to now. I assume they have not managed to read my application (for the 2nd year). Thoughts on my requesting to withdraw my application so I can reapply to the Summer Vac Scheme instead? Has anyone done this/do you think there'll be issues as I've technically applied this cycle already?

Would love to hear anyone's opinion! Thanks

You might be able to withdraw your application of your own accord if you log back into the system.

 

[RS31]

Have many people been selected for ACs by Latham? I did a VI two weeks ago (starting to think I am not very good at VIs) but never heard back after

 

[LEL]

Have many people been selected for ACs by Latham? I did a VI two weeks ago (starting to think I am not very good at VIs) but never heard back after

They're doing their ACs this week

 

[Hele25]

Currently applying to Travers and writing my cover letter (no word limit is scary for me as I tend to ramble/over egg it). Anyway, as part of a point about their practice areas, there’s is a partner and I admire their career so much- they currently work at the intersection of two of their main practice areas. Can you say you admire the career progression of a partner as it showcases the potential professional development that you could undertake? It really is quite a unique job/I haven’t seen it at another firm so I really do admire it. I’m just not sure how appropriate it is to mention someone you’ve never met in a cover letter/if it’s a weak point. 🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️

 

[ELaw2021]

Congratulations! This is great news 🥳

I think you may find this thread helpful- https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....to-a-training-contract-top-tips-in-2021.3454/.

It has a bunch of tips from the TCLA community and resources available that you can go through in the run-up to your WVS 😇

All the very best- please do reach out to us if you have any questions and let us know how it goes!

Thank you so much!

 

[Asil Ahmad]

Are Latham and Watkins rolling for Summer Vacation Scheme.

 

[Jessica Booker]

Currently applying to Travers and writing my cover letter (no word limit is scary for me as I tend to ramble/over egg it). Anyway, as part of a point about their practice areas, there’s is a partner and I admire their career so much- they currently work at the intersection of two of their main practice areas. Can you say you admire the career progression of a partner as it showcases the potential professional development that you could undertake? It really is quite a unique job/I haven’t seen it at another firm so I really do admire it. I’m just not sure how appropriate it is to mention someone you’ve never met in a cover letter/if it’s a weak point. 🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️

I think it is fine to reference this, but it is important to focus on you rather than someone else, so keep this reference as brief as possible (eg sentence or two tops).

 

[Rob93]

Are Latham and Watkins rolling for Summer Vacation Scheme.

I believe they're non-rolling for all opportunities.

 

[RS31]

Just got a PFO from Latham post VI

Have been rejected by two firms post VI (Latham and W&C) which feels a bit concerning... Just hope that I am able to convert the winter VS that I do have!! (touchwood)

 

[GXA123]

How can I prepare for applying to paralegal jobs, I am doing the LPC, but how can I standout, my paralegal rejection emails are about lack of experience and qualifications.

 

[Abii]

How can I prepare for applying to paralegal jobs, I am doing the LPC, but how can I standout, my paralegal rejection emails are about lack of experience and qualifications.

Paralegal jobs are tough to get, some are just as competitive as TCs in terms of applicant numbers. I've personally only ever worked in house as a paralegal, both jobs secured pre-LPC and for large household recognised companies. Do you have any transferable skills to align to paralegal duties - ie time management, working to deadlines, working in teams etc. I always highlighted those in applications and have had success, but to caveat that I have also had a number of rejections on the same basis. for each application that I reached interview there were 30 that I never even heard back from the initial application. It is a very competitive market!

 

[Jessica Booker]

How can I prepare for applying to paralegal jobs, I am doing the LPC, but how can I standout, my paralegal rejection emails are about lack of experience and qualifications.

I’d focus on contract or temp roles first. They can often be more flexible with requirements.

Also look out for roles that may match your unique skill set (eg industry specific, in-house paralegal roles, ones that require knowledge of a country/language).

 

[CC03]

Hi - is anyone still waiting to hear from DLA Piper and A&O?

 

[GXA123]

I’d focus on contract or temp roles first. They can often be more flexible with requirements.

Also look out for roles that may match your unique skill set (eg industry specific, in-house paralegal roles, ones that require knowledge of a country/language).

Paralegal jobs are tough to get, some are just as competitive as TCs in terms of applicant numbers. I've personally only ever worked in house as a paralegal, both jobs secured pre-LPC and for large household recognised companies. Do you have any transferable skills to align to paralegal duties - ie time management, working to deadlines, working in teams etc. I always highlighted those in applications and have had success, but to caveat that I have also had a number of rejections on the same basis. for each application that I reached interview there were 30 that I never even heard back from the initial application. It is a very competitive market!

the issue is that most apps don't ask for written questions or a cover letter, that is why I feel like I am struggling the most

 

[Hele25]

I think it is fine to reference this, but it is important to focus on you rather than someone else, so keep this reference as brief as possible (eg sentence or two tops).

Thanks Jessica,

I’ve tweaked it a little and may just remove it entirely. I know I have stronger points!
Will probably send it in for a review tbh, cover letters always trip me up!

 

[Jessica Booker]

the issue is that most apps don't ask for written questions or a cover letter, that is why I feel like I am struggling the most

Have you spoken to a recruiter about your profile/registered with any agencies?

 

[GXA123]

Have you spoken to a recruiter about your profile/registered with any agencies?

No, how do I register with an agency?

 

[S30]

No, how do I register with an agency?

Here’s a list of legal recruiters you can register with:

https://www.ryderreid.com/registration/

Submit CV | Michael Page

www.michaelpage.co.uk

Candidate Registration and CV Upload - Jameson Legal

Registration and CV upload Please register with us using the below form. You can also call us on +44 (0)203 427 3148 to speak with one of our consultants.

www.jamesonlegal.com

Register | JMC Legal

Register for an account with JMC Legal to access the latest roles and advice from the expert consultants at our legal recruitment agency.

www.jmc-legal.com

Hope that helps!

Once registered, a recruiter would normally contact you within 2-3 days about your job preferences and what ideal role you are particularly looking for based on your CV attached.