TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2023-24

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laby201

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Jan 28, 2021
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When asked to speak about a commercial story that interests you, is it a mistake to talk about a generic/widely covered story?

For instance, if I planned to talk about the EU AI Act that is set to come into force and how that’ll impact firms/their clients, would that be fine as long as my answer is well structured and informative, or would you suggest going for something a bit more unique?

Any thoughts, @Jessica Booker?
 

hehostressed

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Jan 2, 2021
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Can I ask advice re including someone you know at the firm bit of the application? My mentor recommended me using their name but I’m definitely not even remotely near the requirements of the firm (and they know that). I just wondered if there’s actually any benefits to it/do they even look at it?
 
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Jessica Booker

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Aug 1, 2019
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When asked to speak about a commercial story that interests you, is it a mistake to talk about a generic/widely covered story?

For instance, if I planned to talk about the EU AI Act that is set to come into force and how that’ll impact firms/their clients, would that be fine as long as my answer is well structured and informative, or would you suggest going for something a bit more unique?

Any thoughts, @Jessica Booker?
I wouldn’t say that this is a generic story - generic would be if you talked about AI generally rather than this specific act. Because you are focusing on a specific act, it will be more focused. If you felt it still needed more focus, you could always explain how it will particularly impact one particular industry/sector so it is even more specific (but I don’t think this is necessary).
 

axelbeugre

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Hey all, I have my very first AC coming up and not sure what to expect in terms of how the day is organized, since it's only 2 assessments but the AC is over 5 hours long. Are there other stuff you do during an AC? Pls excuse my very elementary question lol, would love any insight on the structure of the day in general!
Also the AC I'm doing is virtual b/c I'm based outside the UK, if that changes things.

@axelbeugre would love to hear your thoughts!
It really depends on the firm. I personally only did 1 hour assessment centres so I do not know what you might be expected to do.

What I would suggest is reaching out to people who are future trainees or trainees at the firm who have recently gone through the process and will be able to tell you precisely what the process entails.
 

axelbeugre

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Can I ask advice re including someone you know at the firm bit of the application? My mentor recommended me using their name but I’m definitely not even remotely near the requirements of the firm (and they know that). I just wondered if there’s actually any benefits to it/do they even look at it?
It will certainly not hinder your chances but it is not in any way the only thing that will get you in in my opinion.

So my advice is, since the person confirmed that you can put down their names, I would do just that, but I would not rely on this and have confidence in your application and what you bring to the role as that will certainly increase your chances of being offered an interview!
 
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