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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2023-24

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Jessica Booker

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Graduate Recruitment
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Aug 1, 2019
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I always struggle with this, too. I'm also keen to get into a pretty niche area of the law but thought the general advice was to avoid talking about it if the firm don't offer training in that area and/or don't regard it as a growth area. I always think my interest is something that sets me apart from other candidates, but also from a business perspective firms aren't interested in investing in training trainees to do "passion work" if the area isn't contributing hugely to their overall growth. Essentially I've always thought it comes down to whether that personal interest is useful to them as a business or not.

Obviously also interested in some better insight on how to tackle this sort of situation!
Its fine to reference "passion work" but I would just balance it out with a broader range of interests if it is not a core practice area for the firm.
 
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Kiwi239

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Oct 24, 2022
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@axelbeugre I have been lucky enough to have gotten onto the Goodwin vac scheme, and was wondering if you had any advice on how to be successful and impress enough to get the TC? Do you have any insights into how you were assessed? Finally, what were your thoughts on the firm and what ultimately led you to accept the offer? Thanks in advance!
 
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manifestingtrainingcontract

Distinguished Member
  • Dec 24, 2023
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    Congrats!!! While not for Freshfields, I accepted a place at a firm for a SVS that had never mentioned extra funding or anything for housing, etc. and I emailed them (because I don’t even live in London and it’s expensive in the middle of June😭) about it, and they straight away offered to pay for a hotel for me! Can never hurt asking given they know how expensive it can be!
    this is so nice! which firm is this?
     

    Legalstalker

    Legendary Member
    Premium Member
  • Oct 9, 2023
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    View attachment 5906
    It’s our 5th date now in the past 3 months. Hopefully we progress to the next stage this time round! We’ve only been meeting online but this time I think I’ll get an in person

    Fingers crossed😌
    Amberjack the Bain of my life 😭 I’ve done 7!!

    Side note props to you doing a VI on your phone 😳 that’s insane 😩🤣
     
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    bangarangbass39

    Legendary Member
    Sep 13, 2023
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    Amberjack the Bain of my life 😭 I’ve done 7!!

    Side note props to you doing a VI on your phone 😳 that’s insane 😩🤣
    Nah I’m not doing it on my phone😭I got the invite from a firm today and clicked on the link through my phone which took me straight to the test. I was so shocked.

    Then I saw this woman and thought Jesus she’s gonna be showing up forever - at least until I secure a VS🤣or firms decide on some next bonkers application process in the following cycle.

    She must of been paid a healthy amount to do this. Essentially every city firm to National/regional firm uses her video. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s used in consulting. (By the way I’m aware she’s just an actor for a private agency or company of some sort)
     
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