TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Apple]

Im curious why DLA Piper choose who to give the WG to, but then even when they pass the test don't necessarily invite to VI.

 

[adrk1234]

Im curious why DLA Piper choose who to give the WG to, but then even when they pass the test don't necessarily invite to VI.

Agreed, it’s 3.5 weeks since I passed WG but no invite, would assume PFO from here

 

[bella98]

Agreed, it’s 3.5 weeks since I passed WG but no invite, would assume PFO from here

Sameee🥹 it’s been 3 weeks

 

[safari3]

For the Freshfields workshops, do we need to highlight why we want to attend the workshop specifically, as typical in an open day application? Just asking because the questions simply asks for a personal statement. Thank you!

 

[AS24]

Hey @AS24 , great question.

The question is indeed a hybrid, so dividing your word count between "the steps you took" and "what appeals to you about this career" is a solid approach. However, don’t feel bound to an exact 50/50 split. Instead, use your discretion to ensure each point is fully developed. For instance, you may find that your interest in a career as a solicitor in an international law firm requires more explanation than the specific steps you took, especially if those steps can be covered succinctly with a few examples and some detail.

Consider the question as asking both, “What steps have you taken to confirm that this is the career you want?” and “How have these experiences solidified or deepened your interest in commercial law specifically?” For the first part, focus on experiences that directly exposed you to commercial law or the day-to-day work of a solicitor, such as open days, vacation schemes, networking events, or specific workshops. Highlight any moments that were particularly formative—such as learning about the role of solicitors in complex transactions or understanding the way international firms approach cross-border work.

When explaining what appeals to you about this career, go beyond the surface level to show why you chose commercial law over other fields like immigration, criminal law, or even professions in adjacent industries like banking or marketing. Reflect on what aspects of commercial law excite you most: is it the strategic problem-solving involved in high-stakes deals? The dynamic nature of working with international clients and navigating varied regulatory environments? This is also a great opportunity to discuss any insights you gained about the commercial or business side of legal work and why that focus appeals to you. For instance, perhaps your research or work experiences revealed the value lawyers bring by understanding clients' industries, or you realized you thrive in environments where legal expertise intersects with business strategy. Remember to solidify the points here with remnants from your past experiences, to avoid your answer being labeled as generic.

Additionally, because the question specifically references international law firms, consider contrasting the appeal of international work versus domestic-only practices. You might mention the diversity of clients, the chance to address complex cross-border issues, or the appeal of working with multiple legal frameworks and regulations. This could be through direct examples, such as a case study or insight you encountered, or through your own aspirations to engage in a more globally connected practice.

Overall, think of this answer as an opportunity to demonstrate both why this career path is meaningful to you and how you’ve actively engaged in exploring and validating that interest.

Thank you so much @Amma Usman

 

[bobjeff]

Anyone heard anything from Latham open day?

 

[studentdelaw786]

Anyone heard anything from Latham open day?

I haven’t. I assume next week we shall.

 

[far]

anyone heard anything from Gibson Dunn for svs or debevoise for their open day?

 

[SoonToBeTrainee]

anyone heard anything from Gibson Dunn for svs or debevoise for their open day?

Debevoise won’t get back to anyone until around February. They don’t recruit on a rolling basis

 

[Amma Usman]

Which firms are biased in favor of younger applicants? Realistically where do I, as a 27-year old, have a chance?

Hey @Tintin06 ,

Age tends to be less important than your ability to show up as a stellar candidate. I know many people who have gone on to become excellent lawyers, even as career changers at later ages. Focus on demonstrating your knowledge of the industry, showcasing any unique skills or perspectives you bring from past experiences, and really nailing your applications.

 

[Amma Usman]

bird and bird pfo since i didn’t meet the benchmark for wg. quite disappointed 😔

Hi @lolololol,

I completely understand how hard those rejections can hit—it's normal to feel disheartened. But remember to keep going. Your performance on one test or assessment isn’t a true reflection of your potential to succeed in this journey. Just being here, navigating the law firm application process, is a testament to your ability and determination. You've got what it takes. Take the time you need to recharge, but don’t let setbacks hold you back. Keep going—you’re closer than you think!

 

[Amma Usman]

NRF WVS!

Huge congratulations @Tsitsipas10S , well done, and hope you celebrate well ☺️

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey guys,

Thought I’d post this here as a little cycle recap so far.

11 WVS applications, 1 direct TC.

Six ACs, One WVS offer (Simmons), TC offer from Slaughter and May.

This was my first cycle, and this forum has been invaluable in helping me to prepare for applications. I’ve really enjoyed talking with and meeting many of you over the last few months.

If anyone wants any advice, tips, or anything at all, please send me a message! I’m happy to help others in the same way that so many of you have been so useful for me throughout this cycle so far.

Best of luck to you all!

Congratulations on the offers @HelpAStudentOut , we are extremely pleased to hear this! Hope you celebrate well!

 

[Shandy101]

Anyone done W&C's written Ex and have any tips?

 

[sophieclaire24]

For DLA's WG, would these results mean I am guaranteed to have failed?
Recognising assumptions= strength to leverage (above average)
Critical thinking= further exploration (average)
Evaluating arguments= strength to leverage (above average)
Drawing conclusions= opportunity for development (below average)

 

[3000to1shoteverytime]

Im curious why DLA Piper choose who to give the WG to, but then even when they pass the test don't necessarily invite to VI.

I would guess they benchmark both application and WG first. And then go through a ranking process for combined scores to decide who to take forward.

 

[lolololol]

Hi @lolololol,

I completely understand how hard those rejections can hit—it's normal to feel disheartened. But remember to keep going. Your performance on one test or assessment isn’t a true reflection of your potential to succeed in this journey. Just being here, navigating the law firm application process, is a testament to your ability and determination. You've got what it takes. Take the time you need to recharge, but don’t let setbacks hold you back. Keep going—you’re closer than you think!

that’s very kind thank you!

 

[cjwx]

For DLA's WG, would these results mean I am guaranteed to have failed?
Recognising assumptions= strength to leverage (above average)
Critical thinking= further exploration (average)
Evaluating arguments= strength to leverage (above average)
Drawing conclusions= opportunity for development (below average)

I only got one above average and the rest was average and I still passed the benchmark. I think your application answers are also important.

 

[Deleted member 37508]

Does anyone know Mayer brown values/what they look for in trainees. The website is awful in terms of information.

 

[Deleted member 37508]

Finished the Mayer brown testing. Very long. However, the tests are definitely a great source of identifying the qualities of a lawyer. I would do these tests 100 times over a Watson Glaser.
I spoke to graduate recruitment and although the email states the first section is untimed they do indeed take time into consideration.