TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[rapunzel]

They haven't gotten back to me post app. no test invite, nothing. smh

same

 

[tcla02]

Macs AC and Withers interview - if anyone has any tips for either, i'd be so, so appreciative. i've never got this far in the process for either before so really need the tips x (Did get a Mills and Reeve rejection today too, you really win some and lose some).

congrats!!! do u mind me asking when u applied for mac?

 

[zoobla20]

congrats!!! do u mind me asking when u applied for mac?

thanks I applied on 27th dec

 

[Lizzy]

lol at freshfields' grad workshop literally a month ago they told us the application process is a simple personal statement - watson glaser - assessment centre process and I come on here to find they've randomly introduced the worst form of automated test where your application won't even get read if you don't pass. freshfields has always been one of my fave firms but this just sucks tbh.

What automated test?

 

[sapphireoreos]

Macs AC and Withers interview - if anyone has any tips for either, i'd be so, so appreciative. i've never got this far in the process for either before so really need the tips x (Did get a Mills and Reeve rejection today too, you really win some and lose some).

Hey, is withers for the spring or summer VS?

 

[jwantsatc]

Anyone know of any firms which don't require any kind of tests (SJT, WG etc) or VI?

 

[kokoprep]

Anyone know of any firms which don't require any kind of tests (SJT, WG etc) or VI?

jones day sidley austin some firms like this don’t have

 

[aphelion]

What automated test?

"If you are applying to our trainee associate programme we have introduced an online psychometric test, the Law Online Assessment to further enhance your experience."

"This is a blended assessment that measures your skills, behaviours, preferences and cognitive ability. The Law Online Assessment will give you insight into the types of problems Freshfields is trying to solve and a realistic job preview. It’s designed to be user friendly and easy to complete."

sounds like they're not making vs applicants do it though

 

[lawstudent2]

has anyone who applied to the freshfields summer vac scheme on either the eight or the ninth of jan recieved the test?

 

[Akimbo001]

I would say to practice answering 2-part questions in one minute as it goes quick. Research CMS and why it’s a future facing firm. There is a mix of questions so also practice motivational questions. There will also be a scenario question. Hope this helps.

That helps a lot, thanks

 

[3000to1shoteverytime]

Those getting to Freshfields AC already are you on some form of fast track because the email I got says that the new online assessment stage will be sent out 27 January.

 

[g.cl.2020344]

Those getting to Freshfields AC already are you on some form of fast track because the email I got says that the new online assessment stage will be sent out 27 January.

Yeah same lol

 

[James Wakefield]

Anyone get a Macfarlanes AC who applied at the deadline?

 

[kokoprep]

Those getting to Freshfields AC already are you on some form of fast track because the email I got says that the new online assessment stage will be sent out 27 January.

The ACs are for the Vac Scheme right?

 

[Miss Chocolate]

For travers application form, I can't see how I can avoid repeating at least some information in the cover letter and questions below?

 

[kokoprep]

For travers application form, I can't see how I can avoid repeating at least some information in the cover letter and questions below?

Yeah I tried my best not to but still had overlap.

 

[kokoprep]

Hi Guys - for travers is there only one interview (AC) for the vac scheme or is it two sets of interviews?

 

[AlegalA]

I don’t think there is an expectation for you to memorise everything and regurgitate it all in an interview. That would seem robotic. 🫡

It’s much better to choose areas of commercial law that interest you and focus on those. Doing it this way also means you can articulate ideas better. 🙂

For example, I am interested in antitrust & competition, IP, and dispute resolution. I focus my research on these areas to develop commercial awareness. 🫡

If you are applying for US firms with M&A/Private Equity focus, it would make sense to spend time on this as it’s highly likely to come up in an interview. 🙂

I think the most important thing is do you have basics covered e.g., what is a bank? what is a merger? what is an indemnity? what is the CMA? Once you have this underlying knowledge, it’s easier to digest articles and podcasts so it won’t be as overwhelming. 🥳

The most important thing about commercial awareness is can you see what role a firm can play in any story. For example, If you read an article about some changes to litigation funding, how would law firms be able to help their clients handle these changes.

This is how I understand commercial awareness. It’s not something you can master overnight tbh. 😞

Thank you so much for this- I have been trying to focus on certain areas but everything is so interconnected! Which is also why I enjoy law 😂 but got a bit overwhelming yesterday. I'm not applying to any US firms or magic circles, I prefer firms that are more mid size/mid market, so haven't spent too much time going over M&A/PE, except the basics of course.
You're absolutely right about the "what this means for firms/clients". I feel maybe it's better for me to focus on three main stories and hone in on that rather than do general commercial awareness but never truly apply it, so thank you for the advice!!!

 

[Miss Chocolate]

Yeah I tried my best not to but still had overlap.

thanks

what was your overall word count for the cover letter if you don't mind me asking? My friend who got through to AC last year only submitted 555 words or something so just wondering whether they expect us to use the 1000 words

 

[kokoprep]

thanks

what was your overall word count for the cover letter if you don't mind me asking? My friend who got through to AC last year only submitted 555 words or something so just wondering whether they expect us to use the 1000 words

Hey - My cover letter word count was 870 words (not sure if this is bad). I guess as long as you answer why commercial law, why the firm and why you sufficiently then that is good. I believe they do not expect us to use the 1000 word completely, especially since they have 500 words each two other questions.