TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[cwhite233]

I would try to do more self-analysis as to what you think you could have improved on if you did not get enough feedback from the firm, and focus your answer in the interview as to what you have done subsequently to try to improve/develop in the areas you thought were your weaker areas.

Thank you!

 

[Seville123]

Congratulations!! When was your AC?

Thank you! Mine was last week.

 

[RSK]

Thank you! Mine was last week.

Congratulations - what day did you do yours if you don't mind answering

 

[Apple]

Is it worth emailing grad recruitment if its nearing 3 weeks since my AC and I've heard nothing?

 

[Deleted member 37508]

what's the tea

Although many on this forum find me to be a non law hater. I will say this firm didn’t like non law students in the slightest. When a question about the firm whether it be application process, funding or general seat queries she’d just say “go to our website everything is there”. Very dismissive to those who didn’t study law or were unfamiliar with how applying works. It’s like she was just there to pose and look pretty (far from it). A guy who studied philosophy asked a question about how the firm supports those with disabilities (I assume he had one) the graduate recruiter stated that we help to an extent but we are looking for the best lawyers not someone who needs their hand held. This was shocking I understand we’re looking for the best but the best candidates can be those with disabilities those who need adjustments to make their work life easier. To me that was a turn off automatically. To now hear they don’t give post VS feedback I’m not surprised.

 

[g.cl.2020344]

Do you think we will hear anything back about ACs over the weekend? Still waiting to see if I got one from Dechert after doing my written exercise two and a half weeks ago. I’ve emailed grad recruitment and they said I should hear soon, just getting disheartened hearing everyone get offers for other firms

 

[-legal-]

Although many on this forum find me to be a non law hater. I will say this firm didn’t like non law students in the slightest. When a question about the firm whether it be application process, funding or general seat queries she’d just say “go to our website everything is there”. Very dismissive to those who didn’t study law or were unfamiliar with how applying works. It’s like she was just there to pose and look pretty (far from it). A guy who studied philosophy asked a question about how the firm supports those with disabilities (I assume he had one) the graduate recruiter stated that we help to an extent but we are looking for the best lawyers not someone who needs their hand held. This was shocking I understand we’re looking for the best but the best candidates can be those with disabilities those who need adjustments to make their work life easier. To me that was a turn off automatically. To now hear they don’t give post VS feedback I’m not surprised.

Why do they find you to be a non law hater?(out of curiosity)

 

[HelpAStudentOut]

Congratulations!! When was your AC ?

Roughly two weeks ago

 

[Zaraa.x]

Has anyone heard back from the NRF Black Aspiring Lawyers open day yet? It’s next Thursday, is it likely I’ve been rejected considering the time frame?

I heard back today if that helps and I have to confirm my attendance by 10am on Monday (11th) - so I’m assuming everyone would have got an email today or if you were put on a waiting list you’ll hear back on Monday/Tues.

 

[desperateTCseeker1998]

Covington PFO, went through to AC last year maybe thats why I didn't get it this year?

Same situation… did they tell you to reapply in your feedback call too?

 

[desperateTCseeker1998]

Do you think we will hear anything back about ACs over the weekend? Still waiting to see if I got one from Dechert after doing my written exercise two and a half weeks ago. I’ve emailed grad recruitment and they said I should hear soon, just getting disheartened hearing everyone get offers for other firms

I did mine two and a bit weeks ago and heard today so don’t give up hope! Someone who did theirs after me heard before me so wouldn’t read into who has and hasn’t heard

 

[EK_27]

I heard back today if that helps and I have to confirm my attendance by 10am on Monday (11th) - so I’m assuming everyone would have got an email today or if you were put on a waiting list you’ll hear back on Monday/Tues.

Hey, thank you for confirming. Fingers crossed I hear back.

 

[applebunny]

I am currently taking a gap year after having just graduated with a law degree to apply to vacation schemes as I have not done one before. I realise that if I am offered a TC it will be starting in Sept 2027 or March 2028. Is it very unlikely that a firm will allow me to start earlier and if so is it wise to work as a paralegal for the year before starting SQE?

 

[julespere]

any1 still waiting to hear back from Dechert post written assessment.

I am

 

[g.cl.2020344]

Ok fab do you think we could hear over the weekend?

 

[3000to1shoteverytime]

I am currently taking a gap year after having just graduated with a law degree to apply to vacation schemes as I have not done one before. I realise that if I am offered a TC it will be starting in Sept 2027 or March 2028. Is it very unlikely that a firm will allow me to start earlier and if so is it wise to work as a paralegal for the year before starting SQE?

Personally I would ask to do the SQE asap and then have the gap before the training contract so that your law is fresher for the exams. From what I hear the actual academic side doesn't feature as much as you'd expect in practice (and can be looked up if need be anyway)

 

[Jessica Booker]

I am currently taking a gap year after having just graduated with a law degree to apply to vacation schemes as I have not done one before. I realise that if I am offered a TC it will be starting in Sept 2027 or March 2028. Is it very unlikely that a firm will allow me to start earlier and if so is it wise to work as a paralegal for the year before starting SQE?

Firms may be able to allow you to start earlier, but many will have already filled their earlier vacancies and may not be able to bring your start date forward at the same time.

This is not uncommon though and many future trainees find themselves with time available before their training contract starts. You can work as a paralegal - you can often find paralegal roles within the firm you have your training contact with or with other firms in a fixed term contract basis. Other people choose to take time out or work in other industries/sectors while they have the chance to do so, and it’s not an issue to do that either.

 

[Audric_T]

Just saw that DLA summer internship for london is now closed, I think the AC is starting in approximately two weeks. Having passed the benchmark for VI but not heard about the AC should I be worried or continue as I am (practising as though I will get the AC)?

I believe they may send to another AC across the country if london is filled but now anxious - anyone have any insights?

 

[bella98]

Why do they find you to be a non law hater?(out of curiosity)

People misunderstood one of his posts on the forum. He mentioned that the law society at his university, led by non-law students, is corrupt; they often reserve firm open day spots for their friends, who are also non-law students.

I believe everyone should have equal access to these opportunities, but it does seem unfair if law students are excluded from open days in favour of those outside the field. Law students often commit to this career path much earlier on, so when non-law students are able to secure these opportunities through connections, it can limit the chances for those who chose this path from the beginning. (this is my opinion btw)

However, his comment was never about disliking non-law students - it was simply highlighting a fairness issue in how these opportunities are allocated.

 

[cjwx]

.

Just saw that DLA summer internship for london is now closed, I think the AC is starting in approximately two weeks. Having passed the benchmark for VI but not heard about the AC should I be worried or continue as I am (practising as though I will get the AC)?

I believe they may send to another AC across the country if london is filled but now anxious - anyone have any insights?

Last year they were inviting people to AC’s in January so I’m hoping it will be the same.