TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

Amma Usman

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Future Trainee
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Sep 7, 2024
366
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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.
 
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Amma Usman

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Sep 7, 2024
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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!
 
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Amma Usman

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Sep 7, 2024
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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! ;)
Hallmark Ecards Art GIF by Hallmark Gold Crown
 
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)
 

lolololol

Star Member
Nov 13, 2023
45
25
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!
 
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cleojwilliams

Star Member
Premium Member
Jan 31, 2024
43
24
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.
 
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Gday33

Distinguished Member
Apr 21, 2024
72
108
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.
I much prefer these types too, so much better than WG. Fingers crossed for you 🤞🏻
 
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IneedaTCASAP

Valued Member
Oct 14, 2024
116
192
Anyone know what good scores are for the Mayer Brown test to get to the AC?
Did you get a feedback report. I’m not sure what my score is.
I much prefer these types too, so much better than WG. Fingers crossed for you 🤞🏻
Good luck to you also. Although I don’t think I performed well happy to have completed it.
 
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studentdelaw786

Distinguished Member
Sep 11, 2019
56
60
Can anyone kindly provide advice on how to approach the following question for Freshfields’ Graduate Workshop application:

“In no more than 400 words, tell us all about who you are. As part of your personal statement, you should demonstrate that you have the potential to be a great trainee. We also want to know why you want to work at Freshfields and what excites you about a career in commercial law. You may wish to mention any positions of responsibility held in university, as well as work experience or employment, achievements, interests, and personal qualities you think are relevant.”
 

Tintin06

Legendary Member
Oct 23, 2019
533
1,247
Can anyone kindly provide advice on how to approach the following question for Freshfields’ Graduate Workshop application:

“In no more than 400 words, tell us all about who you are. As part of your personal statement, you should demonstrate that you have the potential to be a great trainee. We also want to know why you want to work at Freshfields and what excites you about a career in commercial law. You may wish to mention any positions of responsibility held in university, as well as work experience or employment, achievements, interests, and personal qualities you think are relevant.”
It's about showcasing a narrative really. What's your story? How did you come to be applying to this open day?
 
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Andrei Radu

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Premium Member
Sep 9, 2024
239
343
Can anyone kindly provide advice on how to approach the following question for Freshfields’ Graduate Workshop application:

“In no more than 400 words, tell us all about who you are. As part of your personal statement, you should demonstrate that you have the potential to be a great trainee. We also want to know why you want to work at Freshfields and what excites you about a career in commercial law. You may wish to mention any positions of responsibility held in university, as well as work experience or employment, achievements, interests, and personal qualities you think are relevant.”
I think this basically asks you to answer the usual 'Why you?' 'Why commercial law?' 'Why the firm?' questions. However, given the short word count limit and the framing of the question in terms of explaining "who you are", I agree with @Tintin06 that you should try to showcase a narrative. Thus, instead of separating your answer between three distinct paragraphs addressing each issue, you may want to focus on the series of experiences that led you to where you are today. This way, when discussing each experience you can also discuss the commercial law, Freshfields and 'why me' connections.
 
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