TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2023-24

[sibs23]

idk - VI invites were on Thursday evenings...

I got mine on a Friday

 

[Lopez2017]

I got mine on a Friday

blimey - entirely a lottery then

 

[S87]

Is anyone else feeling a bit annoyed with the VIs? I am sure they are useful tools for the firms to use and choose between the applicants but it's so bizzare that you go through all that application writing process, write paragraphs on why x firm and then the x firm turns around and says, no summarise that in one minute and stare into a tiny white dot on your screen so we can decide if we want to give you a chance. I think I am getting moody because I have had too much to prepare lately 😭 and please no-one tell me why this is a good way for the firm to test how we can think under pressure or be succinct. I am aware. I just wish this isn't how they tested those skills. Also, finding a quiet spot when you live with others and finding a room to record yourself in on campus is a chore and a half.

I don't mean to be negative, but some of these questions are looooong and not something you can properly answer in 60 seconds. So what exactly are they testing? Anyway rant over, I will stop being negative now.

I am feeling so fed up with VIs, I cannot believe that I keep writing good apps but then fail VIs. They feel so dry and anxiety inducing. I am feeling very defeated at the moment. I don’t know how am supposed to write another application.

 

[Petallove1]

I am feeling so fed up with VIs, I cannot believe that I keep writing good apps but then fail VIs. They feel so dry and anxiety inducing. I am feeling very defeated at the moment. I don’t know how am supposed to write another application.

I SO get this - I’ve gotten to a point with second stage SJT/WG/VIs now where I’m going to compile a list of boutique city firms that don’t use the same app structure bc sometimes those second stages make me feel so defeatist as it seems like such an arbitrary way of getting rid of candidates when I feel as though I’m a good candidate with relevant experience. I so understand that with a huge volume of apps a lot of firms feel they have to take this approach but from a personal POV it makes the app process v anxiety inducing - particularly on top of working full time hours at a law firm already lol

 

[Standardlawapplicant]

Is anyone still yet to hear post AC for HSF spring VS?

 

[LKG]

W&C vi omg I was fully expecting a pfo. If anyone has any tips or insight I would really appreciate it!!

 

[Kodak123]

Jones day PFO post AC

 

[S87]

I SO get this - I’ve gotten to a point with second stage SJT/WG/VIs now where I’m going to compile a list of boutique city firms that don’t use the same app structure bc sometimes those second stages make me feel so defeatist as it seems like such an arbitrary way of getting rid of candidates when I feel as though I’m a good candidate with relevant experience. I so understand that with a huge volume of apps a lot of firms feel they have to take this approach but from a personal POV it makes the app process v anxiety inducing - particularly on top of working full time hours at a law firm already lol

Say it louder for the people in the back. I work full time and carve the time to do this extra work means a lot of sacrifices. I am happy to do it but then let’s meet half way guys!

 

[legallyells]

W&C vi omg I was fully expecting a pfo. If anyone has any tips or insight I would really appreciate it!!

congrats! just checking is this for summer?

 

[TCchaser24]

Bristows post-VI?

 

[LKG]

congrats! just checking is this for summer?

Thanks! Yeah

 

[F12M34L]

I applied a while before the deadline for the SVS but also haven't heard back. I think most people haven't heard yet though so 🤞

In that case, their timeline set out in the email is very confusing...

 

[lawbear123]

W&C VI! If anyone has any tips, more than welcome. Can help with a bunch of firms

 

[SolicitorHopeful]

Any news from Dechert post VI/written assessment?

 

[nonlawstudent04]

W&C VI (Summer)- applied 3rd December. First VI so any tips appreciated!

 

[EK_27]

Does anyone have any advice for SJT’s please?

Either where to practice them or the approach you take to get to the next round.

It’s the one thing I genuinely don’t know how to improve on.

 

[wz_13]

ANYTHING FROM RS I AM LOSING IT

 

[Cherikon]

Although people kept saying this is not a number’s game and we should only apply to a handful of firms. But I couldn’t help diversifying my application portfolio 😇

 

[Legalstalker]

AC no.2 complete, I must say you guys were right you do improve after every AC! I had absolutely no nerves straight vibes😭 Spoke so much when she asked "why x" that she had no follow up questions.... and said "wow that was very comprehensive" (dunno if that is a good or bad thing) 🤣

now to do Shoosmiths, Withers, WBD and BBC tests/Vi/written exercises by sunday😰

 

[EM23]

massive congratulations!!!!! do you know if they are hosting any more acs?

Thank you! I am unsure mine was for Edinburgh and the Ac’s were end of last week I believe