TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Amma Usman]

Anyone applying/applied for bakers? I'm unsure how to go about the first question, discussing a topic you're passionate about and how it's impacted you personally or professionally.

I've heard some firms in the past say they like when you go a bit out there, say you're really passionate about dodgeball or something. But with the wording of this "a topic" I'm more inclined to go for something a bit more generic.

@wqueens8 . From my experience with these questions, you could really touch on anything - including dodgeball! It doesn’t have to be a largely commercial or trendy topic - indeed, this would probably even make your answer look more generic. Really dig deep on what has impacted you from the two angles the question asks. Understanding your passions will give you a lot to talk about. Overall, if you’re passionate about something, it shows vividly from your writing. Avoid falling into the trap of talking about what you think firms would want to hear and more on what really excites you.

Hope this helps!

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi. Some law firms are asking for abilities in programming languages (albeit an optional category in the application form). Is being proficient in any programming language really a deal-breaker? To the point where it places a candidate in a pretty good position? Thanks.

Hey @theonecompetant , thanks for your question! Being good at programming is surely a plus but is also not a dealbreaker.

 

[Amma Usman]

I’ve got my first ever open day tomorrow following a competitive application process, with interactive elements and skill sessions and stuff like that, and I was just wondering whether anyone had any advice over what to expect/ what not to do/ how to make a good impression with everyone?

I’m super excited ! but also quite nervy ahah

Hey @sammm10101 , congratulations on the open day! On tips, I’d say...

• Take lots of notes - this will give you points to easily reference in subsequent applications.
• Additionally, network network network! You will meet a lot of lawyers, peers, and you should forge as many genuine connections as possible. I still keep in touch with many people I’ve met from past open days.
• The open day will also cover the firm’s expertise across practice areas so this would be a good opportunity for you to develop your knowledge on the City.
• If you’ve had any burning questions on the profession as well, now is your time to ask.

Hope this helps!

 

[BillSikes]

Those who have done PWC VI - are there still 6 questions? And how long is the time to record our answers?

 

[vstchunter]

For Latham open day - do you have to do assessment before the deadline?

 

[nliro85]

Burgess app asks which 3 practice areas you you would be most interested in spending time in the most. Should we link it to the firm's strength or work in these areas or just discuss why we are interested in these practice areas.

 

[LimitedLiabilityLover]

For Latham open day - do you have to do assessment before the deadline?

Before the deadline they give you in the confirmation email, but if this overruns the application deadline it is fine.

 

[lolasparks]

Hi, for Latham and Watkins open day, is it only one competency based question in the video interview or multiple?

 

[Amma Usman]

Burgess app asks which 3 practice areas you you would be most interested in spending time in the most. Should we link it to the firm's strength or work in these areas or just discuss why we are interested in these practice areas.

Hey @nliro85 , I suggest linking it to the firm’s work in the practices, but ensure you explain both your interest and the firm’s capabilities fully.

 

[vstchunter]

Before the deadline they give you in the confirmation email, but if this overruns the application deadline it is fine.

Do you know how long they give you in the confirmation email from when you submit the application? Thanks so much!

 

[wowcha]

Tell us about a challenge you have faced. What are the skills you used to overcome that challenge and how are they transferable to help you with a career as a lawyer

Is this question best answered in reference to a challenge in the pursuit of a career in law or can it be a challenge in another capacity, eg. in another role / in a personal capacity / throughout academic journey?

 

[Audric_T]

I found out I passed 2 days after completing the test. My report was ‘further exploration’ for all areas. Best of luck with applications!!

Thank you so much for your reply I did mine and got one strength the rest further exploration, hopefully they like my application to progress me to the next stage I wish you all the best for the next stages

 

[nliro85]

Hey @nliro85 , I suggest linking it to the firm’s work in the practices, but ensure you explain both your interest and the firm’s capabilities fully.

Thank you for this it is helpful. I was thinking of doing it but wanted to make sure I was answering the question.

 

[airyfairy123]

Before the deadline they give you in the confirmation email, but if this overruns the application deadline it is fine.

Hey, do you know what is asked in the VI?

 

[Izzy1026]

Where can we find the core values of Covington? I know they value collegiality, collaboration and public service. What else should I emphasise on?

 

[JacksonRJC]

Jones Day WVS offer post-AC yesterday 🤩

I have the AC coming up.

Any tips?

 

[Apple]

For writing a memo, if I'm trying to address multiple separate topics is it appropriate to use numbered bullet points in the executive summary to summarise each key topic. Also, when addressing each topic in depth is it appropriate to use numbered points again, or should I be writing in full prose?

Sorry for what is probably a dumb question, but I've looked online and I'm struggling to see a consistent approach that I can be confident in going into my AC.

 

[tdbaby]

Complete guess here, but by mentioning the woodworking, they will be much more likely to remember it. I recently went to an event with Vinson & Elkins, and they kept referring to one of their recent trainees who talked about cheesemaking in his application. Like, they kept referencing it, as it had clearly made an impression, and hey, he got hired.

just wanted to really echo this, been to HSF a couple of times and they have a similar question. And the answers that seemed to make most of an impression on the grad rec were the ones that people were just very clearly passionate about. They mentioned a couple of times that one of their trainees wrote about Taylor Swift.

 

[LawyerUpPal]

I'd take it as identifying what makes you uniquely suitable for the role, where you have showcased their values and things like that, and how you could apply your skills once hired. The two parts of the question really feed into one another imo

Basically, Why you and what attracts you to the firm. These are all variations of the same thing with minor twists that you have to look out for.

 

[LawyerUpPal]

Where can we find the core values of Covington? I know they value collegiality, collaboration and public service. What else should I emphasise on?

In the intro to their brochure. Here: https://www.cov.com/-/media/files/corporate/brochures/london-recruiting-brochure.pdf. You should emphasise what resonates with you. Everyone has different life/ professional/educational experiences.