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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25
- Thread starter Jessica Booker
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Is there anyone still waiting for Sidley WVS outcome post app? Haven't received a PFO yet.
- Sep 9, 2024
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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.
Could you drop me an insight into what the test includes? is it SJ, numerical, logical and verbal reasoning all in one?
- Sep 9, 2024
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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.
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.
- Sep 7, 2024
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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.
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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.
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
- Sep 7, 2024
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Howdy @AlegalA
I'm pretty much in agreement with what @Jessica Booker said. If you really want to, there's no harm in trying to ensure there's some flow or continuity between the separate paragraphs. You could, for instance, add small, connecting sentences between the sections. For example, in the ‘Be Better Together’ section, you can mention how DWF's collaborative culture is something you'd be well-suited to and then discuss your particular example for that section. These short transitional sentences can give your statement a cohesive feel, but again it's not entirely necessary.
Best of luck!
Based on vibes, which of your applications do you think stands the best chance? For me, it's Arnold & Porter!
Gibson Dunn am jk btw just bringing some entertainment cheer up everyone we all will get there soon.
Aaaa im sorry, if you don’t mind me asking which scheme was your application for? also what stage of the process was it?
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