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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25
- Thread starter Jessica Booker
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- vacation scheme
I think it’s sent manually. Just hold out a little longer I’m sure they’ll reply.
Hi All, I have recieved an A/C invite to DLA Piper - would anyone have any advice or support materials I could use to prepare please? I'm a bit nervous and new to the A/C process @Jessica Booker @Andrei Radu (apologies, I saw others tagging you, so I hope its ok to ask for your help in this way also)
I wouldn't write it off just yet, apparently, they shortlist so they may take the application itself into consideration -For practice I used the below links CC has a practice application as does LL - AD has a good number of free tests:
https://www.assessmentday.co.uk/watson-glaser-critical-thinking.htm
https://jobs.cliffordchance.com/early-careers-me
Your application | Early Careers | Linklaters
careers.linklaters.com
when did you apply to them or when did you finish the VI for them?
Hi everyone, I just submitted an application, but I think the system had a technical error, and even though I wrote my application correctly, the system made it seem as if I made a typo. I was supposed to write "conducting", but on my form it says "conducti ng". This happened after I tried to change it multiple times, and even when I thought I did it turned up like this. I am now very upset that this happened, do you think this would automatically be a rejection? I have no other mistakes in the application other than a few redundant spaces before commas, again due to the system. Is it worth emailing grad rec?
I was about to ask this. Can someone clarify if it is automatically sent after submitting application or your application is screened before you get the WG invite please.
I thought that too but I applied 20/10 and was invited to do WG 21/10. Pretty fast turn around to be reviewed?
Thank you - that’s very helpful to hear. May I check when you applied & also what the outcome was? 😊
Maybe they changed the process this year because last year it was definitely selective.
Thank you!!I wouldn't write it off just yet, apparently, they shortlist so they may take the application itself into consideration -For practice I used the below links CC has a practice application as does LL - AD has a good number of free tests:
https://www.assessmentday.co.uk/watson-glaser-critical-thinking.htm
https://jobs.cliffordchance.com/early-careers-me
Your application | Early Careers | Linklaters
- Sep 7, 2024
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Heya @KBanana
Yep, I’ve successfully progressed through the application stage without completing the Weil Virtual Experience Programme. In general, this has never really been an issue for me (it's only ever come up once during an interview). If you can demonstrate genuine engagement with a firm and its work, you’ll usually be in a strong position. This “engagement” doesn’t necessarily have to come from attending open days or completing virtual internships; even conducting thorough research into the firm and its key areas of focus can demonstrate good engagement.
While virtual experience programmes like those on Forage can be really helpful in giving you insight into the types of tasks and documents trainees typically handle, I really don't think they’re a requirement to write a strong, convincing application. People gain relevant skills and experiences in a variety of ways, whether through legal or non-legal work, volunteering, or other professional experiences.
The most important thing is to focus on crafting a well-written, well-researched, tailored application that highlights why you’re a strong fit for the firm. Please do apply to Weil!
- Sep 7, 2024
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Hiya @cleojwilliams
I've attached a link to the TCLA question bank below. This was an absolute godsend for me when preparing for interviews! It helped me craft great skeleton outlines for a variety of question, pre-empting many of those that could come up during an assessment centre or partner interview. I’d highly recommend exploring the questions listed under the commercial section (as well as those in other sections) to guide your preparation for any upcoming ACs or interviews. You can find the question bank here: TCLA Question Bank.
Good luck with your preparation!
- Sep 7, 2024
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Heya @member7830
I remember thinking the question was quite broad when I initially applied in a previous cycle, but I think you can use the general open-ended nature of the question to your advantage
When approaching the question, I think you can just jump straight into your experiences without a general introduction. I'd recommend starting with a specific, impactful example that immediately demonstrates your strengths. When I drafted my application, I began by describing one of my proudest achievements, which consisted of overseeing a really difficult water installation project in rural India. In general, when describing an achievement you are most proud of, ensure it's clear why this moment is significant to you. Did it push you out of your comfort zone? Were there significant challenges to overcome? Did it force you to draw on a range of skills, which ultimately led you to making a meaningful impact? You should use the example as an opportunity to demonstrate your drive, values, and skills, indicating why you think these make you specifically suited to joining and excelling at Clifford Chance.
I'd also suggest focussing on a few standout achievements that highlight different aspects of your skillset and character. Try to draw on achievements and extracurriculars from a range of contexts. For instance, I used one achievement from my time as a student, another from my time in my full-time job, and a few others from my time carrying out volunteer or extracurricular work. When doing so, I tried to be explicit about my role in each experience: what actions I took, what was distinctively challenging about the experience, and how my actions overcame those challenges to achieve a favourable result.
Finally (and this actually applies to any other application you create), make every word count. If you find you're using "filler" words or sentences, trim them out. Avoid vague descriptions, but convincingly explain what you personally did during these achievements and extracurricular activities. You want to ensure each sentence contributes to showcasing your potential as a future Clifford Chance lawyer, tying your experiences to their values.
Overall, I think the goal is not only to highlight your achievements but also to demonstrate how they position you for success at the firm. Good luck with the application!
- Sep 7, 2024
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Heya @IneedaTCASAP
Just following up on what cwhite233 said. Completely agree that they're a really nice mid-sized firm with a great culture. There’s been some excellent reporting on the firm in The Lawyer (which is unfortunately behind a paywall), but the firm has been doing particularly well from a financial standpoint. They essentially smashed their 2023/24 targets, achieving a 15% rise in revenue to £58.2m and a 61% increase in net profit to £11.5m. This brought their profit per equity partner (PEP) to £479,000, a 26% rise. It’s also worth noting that they acquired another firm, Moon Beever in 2021, and the managing partner Martin Arnold has announced the firm’s aim is to see consistent annual growth, with ambitions to reach £64m revenue by 2024/25.
From just a quick Google search, it seems the private client practice is really driving the firm's growth (in addition to their real estate work). They also made some important hires in this area, including Tim Maxwell and Rudy Capildeo from Charles Russell Speechlys, which will undoubtedly have improved their reputation among private wealth clients. Their new senior partner, Camilla Wallace, has also focused on improving working culture and employee satisfaction (You can find a little podcast they did here). Overall, if you’re interested in real estate matters and private client work, and want to join a firm that’s had an impressive growth trajectory, I’d encourage you to make an application! At the very least, an internship will give you much greater insight into this sort of work and their culture.
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