TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[James Wakefield]

Has anyone had a rejection from BCLP, and didn’t get an interview?

 

[AlegalA]

I think it is fine to have it as three sections of one document rather than connected up given the way it has been presented in terms of questions.

amazing thank you!

 

[bibss]

Cleary WG - I wonder if this is automatic?

 

[BonanzaBih_]

I’ve received a Reed Smith Open day invite but it clashes with another open day that the deadline to pull out of has passed.

They have a virtual open day, would I be able to ask to be transferred to the virtual one? Would this look bad to the firm?

 

[Andrei Radu]

I’ve received a Reed Smith Open day invite but it clashes with another open day that the deadline to pull out of has passed.

They have a virtual open day, would I be able to ask to be transferred to the virtual one? Would this look bad to the firm?

I would definitely advise you to let the firm know that you will unfortunately not be able to attend the open day. However, I would not make it a point to mention that the reason is a conflict with an event at another firm.

I also cannot see any potential harm in asking if there is any flexibility to accommodating you to a virtual open day. Whether this can or cannot be done will depend on the firm's policies and the recruiters' approaches, but I do not think asking for it can disadvantage you in any way.

 

[jojo23]

I just received a Reed Smith open day invite! Some positive news has finally gotten me motivated again

 

[Andrei Radu]

Hi Jessica, I am writing an application for Addleshaw Goddard. Would you recommend mentioning their rankings in the Legal 500 as they already know that stuff and is not a good use of the space?

Just to add to @Jessica Booker's response, I think mentioning Chambers/Legal 500 rankings can be very useful for your reasoning around the firm's unique selling points in terms of practice areas strength and sector expertise. It is a way of evidencing your claims and placing the firm in the context if the market competition. However, as Jessica mentioned, it is essential to connect the point your are evidencing with the ranking with your motivations, interests and experiences - ie. why are you interested in working at a firm that has excellent renown for X practice area/sectors, and which of your work/other experiences reinforce this point?

 

[aspiringlawyer12]

When asked 'What led you to apply for firm's vacation scheme?', is that a combination of why law and why the firm? Do you also need to discuss what you hope to gain out of the vacation scheme? Would be hard to condense all three in a 2-3m response. Thanks in advance!

 

[JLaw56]

Is there anyone still waiting for Sidley WVS outcome post app? Haven't received a PFO yet.

 

[OrangeCherry1800]

Has anyone received a rejection from W&C post app?

 

[Andrei Radu]

How many times did you practice the Watson Glaser test- CC deadline is in 2 days or so and I’ve only been relentlessly practicing for about 4 days.

I’m so worried because the WG is valid for two years.

I’m picking up on what the test is looking for but I’m still scared I’ve left it so late - (well it is actually my fault and responsibility)

I think there is a limit as to how much you can prepare for the WG - both because of the structure of the test itself and because of the limited availability of resources. There is also definitely a point of diminishing returns, as the time you invest in WG preparation can also be used for researching/writing for new applications, attending firm events, improving commercial awareness etc. As such, my view is that a few days to a week of concentrated preparation and practice is generally more than sufficient for ensuring that you have done everything you can be reasonably expected to so as be in the best possible place to get a high score.

 

[gimmeavacschemepls]

Just completed my first VI this season - I forgot how brutal they are. 😅

 

[Unknowncabbage]

I have advice. Use a calculator!

Could you drop me an insight into what the test includes? is it SJ, numerical, logical and verbal reasoning all in one?

 

[Andrei Radu]

Any advice on how to succeed on a VS with a low TC retention? Like how do I stick out, how can I produce good quality work, etc
Any advice appreciated Ty!

I completely agree with @IneedaTCASAP's great response. Having gotten TC offers from a number of firms with low VS conversation rates, I observed that most of the very visible people, who would always make it a point to be seen and to try to impress those around them, tended not to get offers. However, many of the 'quieter' and slightly more relaxed people ended up getting offers.

Of course, this is not to say that you should not try to be as hard working, focused, and enthusiastic as possible in the circumstances. Those are positive aspects that will be counted in your favor. However, you need to read the rooms your are in. First of all, as a vacation schemer just because of your lack of experience you will necessarily be at the bottom of the competence hierarchy within the firm. While contributions and creative thinking are evidently valued, it is quite unlikely you will blow people away with your knowledge and skills. Thus, you should simply focus on doing a good job and scoring well in all the criteria you are expected to score well. Pay particular attention to the time you are supposed to complete an assignment by, at the structure and clarity of your drafting, and at spelling, grammar and punctuation. You would be surprised how many students who focus on making 'brilliant' substantive points overlook those.

Secondly, this applies in the social interaction context as well. It is essential that you form a good relationship with your supervisor and other team members. In most cases I have observed, the key to that is just to be flexible around the lawyers' attitude. If you see that they are particularly interested in discussing their work with you, be engaged and ask many questions about that. If they seem stressed and want to focus on their work, do not interrupt them many times to try to force a conversation. If you see they are more interested in spending the limited free time they have to just relax and discuss something unrelated to work, do not insist on such topics. If the dynamic allows you to ask them about their personal life and interests and thus develop a more informal relationship, you should definitely try to do that.

 

[Tintin06]

At what point is multiple VSs an issue? If you've done a few, does it suggest you're not worth giving one too in case you won't convert it? I'm just frustrated because I graduated five years, took a break to do a masters in an unrelated field because I was convinced after the Travers Smith VS in 2020 that I had no chance in the law. That was an expensive sulk. However, in the last cycle I got three ACs and one VS. I'm only interested in US firms. GCSEs: ABBBBCCC, A-Levels: AAA. Degree: 62.5% (2.1). I have mitigating circumstances. I did work experience at Slaughter and May in 2018 and VSs at Debevoise, Travers Smith and Ropes & Gray. I don't understand why I'm getting rejected for everything so far in this cycle. About six rejections so far. I so think open days help you jump the queue somewhat, however I've just got onto one competitive one so far. I'm 27 now.

 

[DesperateForVac]

Sidley and linklaters PFO

When did you complete the tests? Also what does PFO stand for?

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi, I would really appreciate some guidance around the BCLP Vacation Scheme Question : Please describe a time where you have received constructive feedback? How did you react and how did you utilise this feedback to ensure your own positive self-development? (500 words). In terms of general structure and ideal examples. Thank you! @Jessica Booker @Ram Sabaratnam !

Hiya @futuretrainee101ac

When approaching a question about constructive feedback, I've typically relied on examples from work experience or volunteering. I suggest structuring your response by first briefly explaining the situation and the feedback received. You can even feel free to indicate how you initially felt. Then, spend the other part of your focus on how you applied that feedback in future situations and, importantly, discuss the impact it had on your personal/professional development.

For example, I often mention an experience I had when I was giving presentations as a volunteer at a certain charity. I'd received feedback from my supervisor that my presentation slides and materials were often badly suited to people who had dyslexia and visual impairments. Initially, I was surprised, as I believed I was already organising and drafting my slides in a manner that was clear, memorable, and easy to follow. But when I looked into it, I realised that I'd been making certain stylistic assumptions that weren't actually the most friendly to a wider audience. I eventually started to ensure that everything from the colours I used in slides, to the fonts and size of texts were much more disability and access-friendly. I also mentioned how I did this going forward. The feedback I received and the way I actioned it afterwards really helped me improve my ability to adapt my communication.

This is just one example, but I'm sure there are many such professional and personal examples that you could discuss in a constructive way. The point is to highlight your ability to take on feedback and incorporate it.

 

[bangarangbass39]

At what point is multiple VSs an issue? If you've done a few, does it suggest you're not worth giving one too in case you won't convert it? I'm just frustrated because I graduated five years, took a break to do a masters in an unrelated field because I was convinced after the Travers Smith VS in 2020 that I had no chance in the law. That was an expensive sulk. However, in the last cycle I got three ACs and one VS. I'm only interested in US firms. GCSEs: ABBBBCCC, A-Levels: AAA. Degree: 62.5% (2.1). I have mitigating circumstances. I did work experience at Slaughter and May in 2018 and VSs at Debevoise, Travers Smith and Ropes & Gray. I don't understand why I'm getting rejected for everything so far in this cycle. About six rejections so far. I so think open days help you jump the queue somewhat, however I've just got onto one competitive one so far. I'm 27 now.

I think you should give yourself more grace. Not converting is not a failure. More importantly, these firms don’t think of you as a number or that you’re not useful because you didn’t receive a TC from them. You have what it takes, evidently.

I dont want to lecture you on reviewing your feedback, etc, because it’s not my job and it’s a sensitive topic. But I want to advise you to give yourself a break, and not be so critical of yourself and the predicament you’re in. You have a long career ahead, wherever that maybe. If you do, and I dont doubt it, make it in to law, please just be fair and kind to yourself because it’s a difficult profession.

 

[DesperateForVac]

For those who got Links rejection today when did you do your testsv

 

[DesperateForVac]

On the portal for linklaters it says my application is “under hold”, what does this mean? Maybe i’m deluding myself but I feel like it used to say application under consideration