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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

sjr22

Well-Known Member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Oct 11, 2024
20
14
Is it too late to apply to W&C. Wondering if I should just apply directly instead as it’s non-rolling and people are already receiving ACs for spring
I know quite a few people who did the vac who literally applied in the last hour - W&C is one of those firms that will read all applications (confirmed by grad rec), don't get me wrong there's an advantage in applying earlier but you're not out of the game, especially since there's a couple more days left til the deadline! Also a good percentage of people apply in the last few days so grad rec may def be saving some VIs/ACs.
 

SonghaivAngel

Star Member
  • Dec 6, 2024
    32
    179
    At A&O Shearman AC I was asked the difference between a warranty and a representation, and how I would apply each one to the case study problem.

    That's crazy, The questions asked in my A&O Shearman AC was completely geared towards understanding the dynamics of commercial law with some probing on financial analysis e.g "What's the EBITDA based on this financial statement."

    I think that they will only ask you legal questions if you give them the indication that you have extensive knowledge on it!
     

    Jessica Booker

    Legendary Member
    TCLA Moderator
    Gold Member
    Graduate Recruitment
    Premium Member
    Forum Team
    Aug 1, 2019
    15,299
    21,356
    Does anyone have any advice on how to fill out the work experience sections of these application forms. Im worried that the way Im answering them is having an impact on my success.

    Is it recommended to do bullet points, mention the firm, body of text... Any insight learned on open days/ discussions with any firms would be really appreciated
    When you say "mention the firm" you mean the firm you are applying to, then you don't need to do this. I would generally recommend prose over bullet points as it often helps you connect your responsibilities up and also sell your impact more. Bullet points only really tend to work for presenting more individual responsibilities and outcomes rather than the story telling that is often needed to "sell" your experience and skills demonstrated.
     
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    EA95

    Legendary Member
    Gold Member
    Premium Member
    Dec 10, 2024
    145
    198
    Hi I’m so sorry you were unsuccessful. I believe you can apply to the winter scheme but that will rule you out of the TC for that cycle. Do you mind if I ask when you heard back

    Hi I’m so sorry you were unsuccessful. I believe you can apply to the winter scheme but that will rule you out of the TC for that cycle. Do you mind if I ask when you heard back?
    Hi there, I’m in the process of applying for the TC with Freshfields now. Apologies for not clarifying this. I just wanted to know the answer to this hypothetical scenario.
     

    Jessica Booker

    Legendary Member
    TCLA Moderator
    Gold Member
    Graduate Recruitment
    Premium Member
    Forum Team
    Aug 1, 2019
    15,299
    21,356
    People here are already doing VIs and ACs for the firms that haven’t responded to me, so it’s safe to say those are all rejections in my case. I don’t know if I should even continue applying to the remaining firms on my list or if it’s already too late.
    I really don't think you can make that assumption. Do continue applying - there are still a whole host of opportunities out there and a lot of firms that don't recruit on a rolling basis.
     

    Jessica Booker

    Legendary Member
    TCLA Moderator
    Gold Member
    Graduate Recruitment
    Premium Member
    Forum Team
    Aug 1, 2019
    15,299
    21,356
    Do people actually get asked legal knowledge questions during interviews? Not commercial awareness but like "what is a freehold covenant".
    Can happen but tends to be rare. When it does happen, its usually because you have experience, whether it be work experience or academics related to the topic included in your application though.
     
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    futuretrainee!

    Star Member
    Apr 7, 2024
    31
    69
    Do people actually get asked legal knowledge questions during interviews? Not commercial awareness but like "what is a freehold covenant".
    Not really, but they are often included in AC tasks to provide a clearer perspective on the case study problem. For instance, think of it like understanding the mechanics of a car—you don’t need to be a mechanic to drive it, but knowing how the engine works can help you identify warning signs or inefficiencies. Similarly, understanding these terms can help you spot technical red flags. That said, firms are more focused on your ability to identify broader issues and demonstrate a natural grasp of the business landscape in commercial law. Hope this helps!
     

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