TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Amma Usman]

Jones Day PFO

Hi @Niabpatel8 . I’m really sorry to hear this. Please keep going, you got this! You’ve got a whole community supporting you at every step of the way 🚀🚀 🚀

 

[zeydi]

Hi, congratulations again on your first virtual AC invite!

For the group exercise, focus on presenting your views in a way that’s both respectful and collaborative. Express your ideas confidently, but also engage with and encourage others’ contributions to showcase your ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Since this is for an in-house role, it's essential to understand how the advisory scope differs from private practice. In-house lawyers are typically specialists in the specific industry they serve, providing expert advice tailored to the business's needs. However, when matters require niche expertise or go beyond their scope, they may seek support from private law firms. I have usually been asked about this difference in past ACs I’ve been to, so it’s helpful having some points under your belt on the advisory-related differences.

To prepare, familiarise yourself with the industry the company operates in and think about how their legal team might approach commercial and operational challenges. During case studies or group discussions, focus on offering practical, solution-oriented advice that balances legal compliance with business priorities.

Best of luck, you’re going to do great!

Thank you very much, your advice was very insightful! Another point is how much in-depth industry knowledge should I know regarding their work since it is for a training contract I assume they want to be training the person they have?

 

[tomsmitg]

Hey @tomsmitg ,

Typically, the recommended approach is to go straight to the point on the identified issues. However, as an assessment, you will need to expand on it with more detail. Do not make this too lengthy though, but the required length will usually be communicated in the assessment. Where it is not, I suggest using a reasonable length. This differs based off the question itself, but can be determined by the recipient as well. For example, if it is a memo to a client, you will want to go straight to the point on the main issues of their concern (or as highlighted in the instructions), whilst still providing enough detail to give them clarity of the legal/commercial scope and related concerns. Clients and supervisors usually want the stop headlines - what the issues are and how they could affect operations. Thus, it means you will need to avoid legal jargon or break it down where necessary. Another thing is to not over-assume clients don’t know certain things, as this is also scored from my experience. For example, in a client letter you will not need to put IPO (Initial Public Offering) - just IPO is sufficient. Adopting this approach ensures you save time and really go into just the crux of what is needed per issue.

Goodluck!

Thanks Amma, super helpful! Would you recommend adding a summary of points at the start and if so, how much detail would you put into this generally?

 

[futuretrainee!]

Hi @futuretrainee! ,

Thank you for being so open about what you’re going through.

First off, you’ve already achieved incredible things: an 81% on your PGDL and making it to the semis of major commercial awareness competitions? That’s something to be so proud of.

This reminds me of Albert Bandura’s “self-efficacy theory” which I was reading about on the train the other day. It’s the idea that the belief in your own ability to succeed plays a massive role in achieving your goals. Bandura talks about how we can build self-efficacy through mastery experiences (like your academic and competition successes), social modelling (seeing others succeed and knowing it’s possible for you too), and resilience/overcoming challenges and setbacks.

The thing is, you’re already doing everything Bandura points to. You’ve had mastery experiences that prove you’re capable. You’re surrounded by this incredible community of people, showing you that there’s a way through. And most importantly, you’re building resilience every time you push forward, even when it feels tough. That resilience is going to carry you further than you realise right now.

It’s so easy to feel like you’re stuck in a loop, but every application, every rejection, and every moment of reflection is adding to your strength and skillset. It’s not a straight line, but it is progress. The system might be competitive, but you’re already proving you have what it takes to stand out, not just in achievements, but in character, grit, and determination.

The holidays can bring up all sorts of emotions, but try to take this time to celebrate you: the version of yourself that keeps showing up, even when it’s hard. You’ve got a fire inside you, and that dream of becoming a lawyer? It’s yours.

You’re not alone in this. Everyone here is rooting for you. Keep believing in yourself, because every step forward is bringing you closer to where you want to be. You’re already doing amazing things, and there’s so much ahead for you.

You’ve got this.

Wow, howling happy tears on a Sunday evening at your very kind words Amma, thank you!!!

 

[yasmars]

Hi @futuretrainee! ,

Thank you for being so open about what you’re going through.

First off, you’ve already achieved incredible things: an 81% on your PGDL and making it to the semis of major commercial awareness competitions? That’s something to be so proud of.

This reminds me of Albert Bandura’s “self-efficacy theory” which I was reading about on the train the other day. It’s the idea that the belief in your own ability to succeed plays a massive role in achieving your goals. Bandura talks about how we can build self-efficacy through mastery experiences (like your academic and competition successes), social modelling (seeing others succeed and knowing it’s possible for you too), and resilience/overcoming challenges and setbacks.

The thing is, you’re already doing everything Bandura points to. You’ve had mastery experiences that prove you’re capable. You’re surrounded by this incredible community of people, showing you that there’s a way through. And most importantly, you’re building resilience every time you push forward, even when it feels tough. That resilience is going to carry you further than you realise right now.

It’s so easy to feel like you’re stuck in a loop, but every application, every rejection, and every moment of reflection is adding to your strength and skillset. It’s not a straight line, but it is progress. The system might be competitive, but you’re already proving you have what it takes to stand out, not just in achievements, but in character, grit, and determination.

The holidays can bring up all sorts of emotions, but try to take this time to celebrate you: the version of yourself that keeps showing up, even when it’s hard. You’ve got a fire inside you, and that dream of becoming a lawyer? It’s yours.

You’re not alone in this. Everyone here is rooting for you. Keep believing in yourself, because every step forward is bringing you closer to where you want to be. You’re already doing amazing things, and there’s so much ahead for you.

You’ve got this.

This is beautifully written Amma and speaks to a lot of people's experiences on this forum.

 

[MillieW]

@Jessica Booker @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman

I am planning to submit an application, requiring CV and cover letter, to a local, regional law firm.

I have been fortunate to have completed several open days, insight schemes and Mini-Pupillages at large, national or international, firms and chambers. I have no work experience with regional firms. These experiences therefore form a key part of my CV and cover letter, and I am seeking advice on how they should be best incorporated as to stand the best chance of success at a regional level?

TIA for any advice you can give!

 

[EK_27]

Hi @EK_27. It depends on how you argue and link the answer together, but generally the deal inclusions tend to make more sense when used to back up an already properly explained interest in a practice. I’d also be careful to not just drop the deal, but make it back up a strong passion for the firm’s work. As you can imagine, many firms work on similar deals. Finding a niche or a really great breakout deal that has not been typically executed by its counterparts/competitors will be great. However, even this is just the first level. Many candidates can drop that deal too. You will need to back it up by specific examples to substantiate why that deal appeals. Secondly, this deal does not have to be primarily carried out by the London office. As an international firm, all offices will usually come together to work on a deal. This is especially not an issue with the firm’s that pride themselves with one-firm cultures, but more generally it also applies to the whole spectrum of global firms.

Thank you so much, this is really helpful☺️

 

[VMS]

Do law firms get references from all previous employers when they intend to hire you, to the point that all absences are declared?

I have had a temporary part-time job for the last seven weeks and have just had to call in for the second time for illness (one day, both times on a Monday). It was my last shift. Will this impact my ability to get a job in a law firm? I’m stressed as I just wasn’t well and would have forced myself in but it starts at 4am and I’m just unwell and tired.

 

[Babablacksheep]

Is the bakers VI competency, commercial awareness or SJT. would highly appreciate any info

 

[cjwx]

Hey @cjwx . I think this is a good idea. The geographic reach will not be an issue considering the international scope of most deals within global headquartered law firms. Also, energy is really hot right now in the gulf so very interesting topic for discussion! Ensure to also cover fully why it interests you. Any past experiences/ research/ connections to the region or energy more generally? This part of the discussion is just as important as the relation to T&H. I would split it into two paragraphs covering each arm. In discussing the relation to the firm, touch well on the practices and how investment has been impacted and how it will be impacted in the future. Consider the tax benefits in the region, yet also the fluctuating high prices and the consequent impact of this on deal flow. You will find positive answers to this. Further, consider any expansion plans by the firm in this region.

thank you sooo much for both responses. This really helps

 

[kokoprep]

Is the bakers VI competency, commercial awareness or SJT. would highly appreciate any info

Did you get the VI for Summer?

 

[elsx]

Hey @elsx ,

Given the word count of questions of this type, I would not dwell too much on the self-introductory part. This is because there are three things you need to cover (provided that they have not been previously asked anywhere else in the application): (1) about you, (2) why commercial law, and (3) why Northridge. The core analysis should be on 2 and 3 as this is what will enable you to showcase a genuine passion for the firm and law more generally. In terms of how to introduce yourself, I will do this in a couple of sentences covering my university/stage, as well as current professional capacity (paralegal, etc).

Thank you very much for your response !

 

[adrk1234]

Anything from bird and bird after VI?

I did mine on 30/11 and have nothing. Is it worth emailing grad rec?

 

[gazdgazd11]

Those who’ve received CMS ACs, when did you apply & complete your VI?

 

[unknownnn7372]

does anyone have any resources that are similar to the commercial law handbook,, any that i can find online and the digital version. im trying to brush up on my commercial awareness and just have an idea on the different practice areas.

 

[AfVio24]

I did mine on 30/11 and have nothing. Is it worth emailing grad rec?

I did my VI like early-mid November and nothing, may be worth an email but most AC's etc were given in early Jan last year

 

[s9111]

Those who’ve received CMS ACs, when did you apply & complete your VI?

Applied 14/10, invited to VI 19/11, received London AC invite 20/12

 

[lawstudent2]

Anyone have advice for this application question? Am not really sure what they want tbh
Q4 - Please describe a time where you showed courage in the face of adversity. What was the situation and how did you react? Max 500 words

 

[futuretrainee101ac]

Hi, does anyone know at what point its worth emailing BCLP regarding an application update, it has been 3 weeks since I received the feedback report.
@Ram Sabaratnam @Jessica Booker or anyone!! Thank you

 

[g.cl.2020344]

Eversheds VI! Has any1 done this and can offer some general advice please?