TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[xxrr.18]

when did u do ur ac

29 Oct

 

[xxrr.18]

Is anyone else that interviewed recently for the Sidley WVS still waiting to hear back?

was rejected last week

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Still in time to apply for Bird & Bird VS? As they are rolling?

Hi @axele

Yes, there’s definitely still time to apply. While Bird & Bird does review applications on a rolling basis, their vacation scheme deadline isn’t until 19th December. Many firms tend to receive the bulk of their applications closer to the deadline, so don't fret yet!

I'd recommend taking some time to think carefully about how you want to approach your application, and if possible, ask a couple of people to review it for you before submitting. Put your best foot forward and you'll be great!

 

[cwhite233]

was rejected last week

Sorry to hear this. So bizarre I haven't heard back I even followed up earlier this week for an update.

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Just did my CMS VI and was calm during preparation but my heart started beating at 200bpm once the video interview started and I WAS NERVOUS AND STUTTERING 😭😭 Im so disappointed but onto the next ig.. hope they don't long out my PFO

Anyone have any tips on the nerves? I feel super confident before but during I lose my composure instantly

Heya @j3llyfish

I’m sorry to hear about your experience with the video interview, but don’t be too hard on yourself. I'd keep in mind that recruiters aren’t just focussed on your delivery; they’re also paying close attention to the content and structure of your answers. A friend of mine had a similar experience. They struggled with nerves and a stutter during video interviews but still managed to progress to the next stages with several firms. So it's still very possible to get through!

One thing that really helps with these interviews is practising your responses to common types of questions, like motivational, competency, and commercial awareness questions, until your answers feel almost instinctive. The more familiar you are with the content, the less you’ll need to focus on recalling your points in the moment, which can help calm your nerves. I’d also recommend avoiding using a detailed script, as I think this almost always makes applicants feel greater pressure to remember every word of their script. Instead, try jotting down key prompts or phrases to help you stay on track without losing the natural flow of your answer. Good luck with your next video interview. You’ve got every reason to feel super confident throughout and not just at the beginning of video interviews!

 

[vr36]

Hi,

Does anyone know if the duration you take to complete the SJT assessment from Linklaters matters? They say there is no limit but was just wondering.

@Ram Sabaratnam @Amma Usman @Jessica Booker

 

[xxrr.18]

Sorry to hear this. So bizarre I haven't heard back I even followed up earlier this week for an update.

honestly was so shocked as it felt like one of my best interviews, i did it on the 29th

 

[j3llyfish]

Heya @j3llyfish

I’m sorry to hear about your experience with the video interview, but don’t be too hard on yourself. I'd keep in mind that recruiters aren’t just focusing on your delivery; they’re also paying close attention to the content and structure of your answers. A friend of mine had a similar experience. They struggled with nerves and a stutter during video interviews but still managed to progress to the next stages with several firms. So it's still very possible to get through!

One thing that really helps with these interviews is practising your responses to common types of questions, like motivational, competency, and commercial awareness questions, until your answers feel almost instinctive. The more familiar you are with the content, the less you’ll need to focus on recalling your points in the moment, which can help calm your nerves. I’d also recommend avoiding using a detailed script, as I think this almost always makes applicants feel greater pressure to remember every word of their script. Instead, try jotting down key prompts or phrases to help you stay on track without losing the natural flow of your answer. Good luck with your next video interview. You’ve got every reason to feel super confident throughout and not just at the beginning of video interviews!

Thanks for the positivity (altho I like to assume the worst to lessen the blow lol) and tips! I stay away from scripts anyway so I think my issue is just anxiety, you're completely right that preparation helps w/ that. Going to keep this in mind for the next VI I do.

It's frustrating to have 1 min to answer a question that is usually 500 words in an application form 😞😔A follow up question - Do you recommend having 3 points for 'why law' for example that are brief or 2 more in-depth ones? I find I really struggle to fit 3 points into an answer without sounding super generic or is a bit more genericness expected for the length of a VI?

 

[bangarangbass39]

anyone know how to withdraw an application on the system firms like Clyde & Co or Mishcon De Reya use?

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Thanks for the positivity (altho I like to assume the worst to lessen the blow lol) and tips! I stay away from scripts anyway so I think my issue is just anxiety, you're completely right that preparation helps w/ that. Going to keep this in mind for the next VI I do.

It's frustrating to have 1 min to answer a question that is usually 500 words in an application form 😞😔A follow up question - Do you recommend having 3 points for 'why law' for example that are brief or 2 more in-depth ones? I find I really struggle to fit 3 points into an answer without sounding super generic or is a bit more genericness expected for the length of a VI?

Completely get how frustrating it can be to condense a strong answer into just 90 seconds! It can be really tough to know, too, whether you've struck the right balance between depth and conciseness. That said, in these cases, I think it's really important to ask yourself whether you can comfortably fit in three points without them feeling rushed or superficial (some people can do this effortlessly - not me though (ha)). It’s absolutely fine to stick with two more in-depth points if that feels more natural, and you can spend about 45 seconds on each, which allows you to provide more substance without feeling pressed for time.

I’d also suggest asking someone to review your answer or record yourself to see how it comes across. The aim is to be concise but still nuanced (on that note, I'd recommend avoiding the typical 'I'm interested in commercial law because I'm interested in business and law'). The other thing I'd say here is that if you end up going with 2 points instead of 3, I'd suggest that you avoid overloading your answer with too much detail. This can effectively dilute your key message and make it harder for the viewer to follow your answer. As long as you’re thoughtful and clear, the interviewer should be able to connect with your reasoning. Good luck!

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Would it be acceptable and beneficial to include a vacation scheme offer that I have accepted (but not yet started) in other VS applications' work experience sections? I'm thinking one line saying that I have been offered the place and will soon start

Heya @billyonthespeeddial 👀

I completely agree with @Jessica Booker on this. When I was in a similar position, I did include a vacation scheme offer in my work experience section, but in hindsight, I found that my applications often worked better when I mentioned it more briefly elsewhere, such as in my answers to specific questions (often 'why commercial law'). I used it as an opportunity to show that I was looking forward to deepening my understanding of legal work in areas I had expressed an interest in. Overall, it's great to include these upcoming experiences to demonstrate your commitment. Good luck with the applications!

 

[a1024]

hey! anyone done the mayer brown assessments? what are they like?

 

[j3llyfish]

Completely get how frustrating it can be to condense a strong answer into just 90 seconds! It can be really tough to know, too, whether you've struck the right balance between depth and conciseness. That said, in these cases, I think it's really important to ask yourself whether you can comfortably fit in three points without them feeling rushed or superficial (some people can do this effortlessly - not me though (ha)). It’s absolutely fine to stick with two more in-depth points if that feels more natural, and you can spend about 45 seconds on each, which allows you to provide more substance without feeling pressed for time.

I’d also suggest asking someone to review your answer or record yourself to see how it comes across. The aim is to be concise but still nuanced (on that note, I'd recommend avoiding the typical 'I'm interested in commercial law because I'm interested in business and law'). The other thing I'd say here is that if you end up going with 2 points instead of 3, I'd suggest that you avoid overloading your answer with too much detail. This can effectively dilute your key message and make it harder for the viewer to follow your answer. As long as you’re thoughtful and clear, the interviewer should be able to connect with your reasoning. Good luck!

Thanks sm! You're a legend, wish I asked before my VI🫥 u live and learn

 

[Parsorandini]

Overall I have 11 or 12 jobs/voluntary roles I can put in the work experience section. Is it a case of the more the better so put all of them, or should I select only a few to not bore grarec? 😅

 

[Tcvspfo]

For Fieldfisher how many words did people put in each work experience and did anyone put it in bullet points.

 

[bella98]

Just did my CMS VI and was calm during preparation but my heart started beating at 200bpm once the video interview started and I WAS NERVOUS AND STUTTERING 😭😭 Im so disappointed but onto the next ig.. hope they don't long out my PFO

Anyone have any tips on the nerves? I feel super confident before but during I lose my composure instantly

I know how you feel 😭 😭 I have to remind myself each time that I'm simply presenting something, not fighting a tiger in the jungle

Record yourself until you feel comfortable with the answers - I know that some questions might be unexpected, but prepare answers for as many interview questions as possible so you’re ready across multiple interviews, especially questions about yourself, your competencies, and market trends

 

[j3llyfish]

I know how you feel 😭 😭 I have to remind myself each time that I'm simply presenting something, not fighting a tiger in the jungle

Record yourself until you feel comfortable with the answers - I know that some questions might be unexpected, but prepare answers for as many interview questions as possible so you’re ready across multiple interviews, especially questions about yourself, your competencies, and market trends

Frrr!! I swear as soon as the time started I felt like I was being questioned by the police for engaging in a large scale money laundering operation 😓 there is no reason why I should be THAT nervous for a stupid VI

Thanks for your tips too I need to learn to prepare more in anticipation of my mental breakdown in the VI

 

[HZP1309]

How many TCs does Linklaters offer through their direct route? Currently leaning towards applying for their direct as opposed to their vac scheme route

 

[helloj]

For the NRF question how has your understanding of the role of a commercial lawyer developed, and motivated you to pursue a career at Norton Rose Fulbright? (350 words)*, how did people go about answering the first part about your understanding of commercial law developing? Any insights would be appreciated!

 

[Jessica Booker]

Overall I have 11 or 12 jobs/voluntary roles I can put in the work experience section. Is it a case of the more the better so put all of them, or should I select only a few to not bore grarec? 😅

I would generally include all of them. Sometimes it is possible to group entries together, particularly things like open day or legal clinic work, and it’s not a problem to do this as long as you are clear about the precise dates of each activity in the description. You don’t have to group them together though - 12 entries is not going to be excessive if you are only writing 200-250 words per entry on average (or less).