TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Amma Usman]

How to best answer the question 'why this firm' in a structured manner in an interview? Any insights would be appreciated @Ram Sabaratnam @Amma Usman @Andrei Radu

Hi there,

This is a really good question. As you can imagine, there is no one exact answer to it. In my opinion, this is a good thing actually. There is no set formula one can use for any firm, to get an offer. This goes to show that firms appreciate individuality and want to really hear your individual stories to know why you want to work at their firm. There are certain factors to mention which fall higher up in the rank of good answers, than others. For example, people often start off with training points or pro bono to demonstrate this interest. This is not bad in itself, particularly if there is something the firm does within these streams, to stand out. However, it will often be largely the same among firms. I only applied to firms with relatively small trainee intakes as this, in my view, enables higher responsibility early on. However, this was not the first thing I mentioned in interviews - it complemented other, well-researched points. As you would have guessed by now, the best thing to focus on with questions like this is a firm’s work. Many firms will be full-service, or well-versed across multiple practices. However, they will be more often times than not, specialised within certain sectors. Why a firm with a core disputes practice? Why a firm with a strong life sciences and tech practice? Why a transactional-focused firm? These are all questions you need to ask yourself before said interview. It is not enough to mention highly generic points such as rankings on Chambers Partners or proficiency in these practices - many firms will be proficient. The starting point is relating this work to your experiences and why that matters. Further, why does it matter enough that you know it is what you want to do for the next two years of your life. Look back at your portfolio - what webinars, work experiences, coffee chats, have you had which made you realise this? Mention these in the interview - it is what will bring your application to life and convey genuinely why this firm is for you and why you are the candidate for them.

Despite me brushing over the training points, you can still certainly mention those with specific examples on why that appeals and/or examples of how you thrived in that similar environment, to show a transferability of skills.

So in summary, always focus on the work first. At the end of the day, this is what you will be hired to do. Through more research, you will also find that firms are market leaders in certain niches within practices. If these niches appeal, mentioning them with specific examples from your experiences, will further strengthen your candidacy.

 

[Tintin06]

Do the Paul Hastings PHirst Steps placements lead to training contract offer? Or is it better to apply directly to TC? (I'm final year oxbridge non-law, good grades, w/ some impressive non-law work experience).

No they don’t lead to TCs. Completely separate process as I understand. People asked this at open day.

 

[FCL25]

Has anyone heard back from AG this week at all?

 

[TheInevitableTCholder2024/25🙏]

Latham AC ffs- can't believe my eyes

 

[Amma Usman]

I remember @Andrei Radu (I believe) making a post on how prepare for SJTs, or what to look out for, etc. Would really appreciate any additional advice on how to do well in SJTs because I never seem to progress with firms that use them. Thank you x

Honestly, there’s no exact formula for smashing SJTs, and I think it’s so important to remember that! A lot of people fall into the trap of trying to pick the answers they think the firm wants to hear, but, in reality, it’s more about how you instinctively respond to business scenarios and your approach to problem-solving. Trust your intuition, it’s more reliable than you think because you already have a general sense of what’s right in a workplace context.

I know people often say to keep the firm’s values in mind while doing SJTs, which is good. However, sometimes it can backfire. If you spend too much time overthinking how to align your answers to their values, you risk running out of time. Most firms value things like proactivity, intellectual curiosity, commercial awareness, and teamwork - you don’t need to stress trying to memorise or focus solely on those. Trust that your instincts already factor these in because they’re a given in professional settings.

One trend I’ve noticed in SJTs is the “demanding deadlines” scenario, like when you’re already swamped, and someone asks you to take on another task. It’s tempting to say “yes” to show you’re proactive, but in reality, a professional workplace values honesty and prioritisation. It’s often better to acknowledge your capacity and explain why you can’t take on extra work without risking the quality of your other tasks. Being upfront shows self-awareness and professionalism.

At the end of the day, SJTs test how you’d navigate realistic situations, so trust your gut.

Best wishes and I know you’ll do amazing!

 

[Amma Usman]

Anyone know what Gateley is looking for in their application when they ask "Please provide relevant detail and information from your work experience to date."?
Given that there aren't any other questions apart from one about their Forage work ex, should the answer to this read like a cover letter? Like what I've done, what I've learned and how the skills apply to Gateley?

Hi there,

I presume there is no need to structure this in a cover letter format. If there is already a cover letter to provide, and/or application questions which cover why Gateley and commercial law, then you can simply use the standard work experience structure format.

When I was applying, I will simply list out each experience (my role, firm, duration/dates), and some description of my responsibilities, as well as skills acquired. These do not need to be Gateley-specific as I’m sure any skill acquired will be valuable and transferable to a law firm setting. Further, the motivational questions or cover letter would enable you to centre more on Gateley anyway.

I personally used a mix of bullet points and prose to address such sections, but I know most people prefer prose so it’s really up to you and if there’s a word limit. I would say don’t make this excessively long though - anything less than 150 words is fine in my opinion. However, I also know of firms that have a 250-300 word limit so it really depends.

 

[Amma Usman]

Is anyone in the same position as me - I applied to Slaughters on 30/10 for their vac scheme but I am yet to hear back.
This despite the fact that others applied much later than me and have received invites/PFO's.

Should I assume PFO or write an email asking for updates? I felt as though my application was strong and have extensive history with the firm so I'm genuinely lost here 😭

Hiya,

I completely get the thoughts you are having, though I would say to not worry too much. Firms get back to candidates later on for multiple reasons, such as workload on reviewing applications, interview scheduling according to lawyers’ availabilities, etc.

 

[Amma Usman]

Also Ropes lets us choose between 2026 and 2027 intake when applying but on the website says only 2027 - will I be disadvantaged if I pick 2026 or will they assume I would be fine with 2027 if no 2026 places?

Hiya,

If the firm/ a graduate recruiter, mentioned the availability of 2026 spots, I see no harm in referencing this since it came from the firm directly.

 

[Amma Usman]

Do the Paul Hastings PHirst Steps placements lead to training contract offer? Or is it better to apply directly to TC? (I'm final year oxbridge non-law, good grades, w/ some impressive non-law work experience).

The firm mentions this on their website: “In June 2025 the firm will be offering Summer work placements. PHirst Steps placements will take place 16 - 27 June 2025. These placements are for those looking to gain experience in a City practice and will give participants experience of life at the firm and the work our lawyers do. Each placement is for one week and is paid. The deadline to apply is 2 March 2025.”

Thus, it seems unlikely the placement leads to a TC offer. However, participation in it may lead to a TC offer if the candidate on the scheme laters applies for the direct TC with the firm.

 

[Amma Usman]

does anyone have any advice in how to approach a tell me about yourself question at the start of an interview. especially when the interview is CV blind so this will lead the discussion. any potential structuring tips, or things to def include?

Very very good question. It always came up for me. At the start of my interview journey, I never really knew what to say. How much info did they want? How professional did I need to be? Could I just say… HELLO MY NAME IS AMMA AND I LIKE RICE! Hahaha definitely not, but the below approach definitely helped me;

The trick is to treat it like a little story about you, who you are, what drives you, and why you’re sitting in that chair. It’s all about hitting the right balance between being personal and professional.

A structure that works really well is splitting it into three parts. Start with the present, where you are now and what you’re doing. This gives them the context they need without diving into too much detail yet.

Then, move into the past, this is where you can talk about what’s shaped you. For me, I always loved charity work and social mobility, so I often mentioned my work in that sphere. It’s a huge part of who I am at my core, and it tied into everything I was doing. I’d say something like, “My passion for social mobility and charity work really influenced my journey, from leading initiatives at university to helping others access opportunities they didn’t think were possible.” This adds a personal touch and shows what drives you beyond just academics or professional ambitions.

Finally, end with the future, tie everything to the role or firm. This is where you can connect the dots between your background and what they’re looking for. You could say, “That’s why I’m so excited about this opportunity, it feels like the perfect way to combine my passion for making an impact with my interest in (X specific area of law or the firm’s ethos).” Finish on a confident, enthusiastic note.

The main thing is to keep it concise, two minutes max, but hit those unique points that make you stand out. For me, charity work was always a must-mention because it’s such a big part of who I am, and I think it’s good to highlight something similar for yourself. Show them what you’re passionate about and how that aligns with the role. If you can do that while keeping it genuine, you’ll smash it.

 

[u64928428]

How long after the second-stage interview are successful candidates typically notified by Gibson Dunn?

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey @futuretcholder . First of all, congratulations on securing the AC. You have done very well to get to that step.

With negotiation exercices, I would say the first tip is being mindful of how one comes across. It’s a negotiation -you‘re trying to meet a middle ground, so ensuring that the discussion is fruitful and not argumentative is a key skill. This is quite difficult to master, but with the right tone, approach, and demeanor, you’ll do great on this area.

The next is acknowledging both sides of the argument. A lawyer needs to understand their client, but also the client on the other side. This makes you appear as a well-rounded candidate. Briefly throw in a few pointers which show that you acknowledge and understand the other side too.

Structure, structure, structure! I can’t emphasize the importance of this enough. You need a clear structure to appear as a candidate with well-organized thoughts. This does so many things. For example, it shows the interviewer that the set preparation time for delving into the facts was more than enough for you to come back in with a reasoned position.

Above all - confidence. The more confident you are in your position as a negotiator, the more confident your answers will come across. This aspect of an AC tests things beyond your commercial acumen - it tests those soft skills that are often unspoken about.

Hope this helps, and let us know if you have any more questions

Hey @sjr22 , well done on getting the AC. In terms of preparations, I remember fishing out several articles when I had ACs coming up. After reading them, I’d make a summary of the main issues and their impacts on law firms and their clients. The reason this is a good starting point is because any written element will essentially require you to demonstrate an understanding of those two core elements, as well as an ability to summarise information adequately. You may not necessarily be asked about the legal and commercial implications in a written assessment, but this knowledge will serve you well one way or another.

So, practicing using random articles on the FT, for example, would aid your preparations. Hope this helps!

I also understand all the nerves, so take a moment before your assessment to recharge

Yay! Great news! I’ve included a few tips below. It’s a mix of technical and soft tips, and I believe both are equally important for success;

• Relax the night before. I don’t recommend preparing hefty content the day before as it tends to stir one‘s nerves up before the assessment.
• Research on how to ace the key components of the AC. Usually, this tends to be motivational, competency, and situational interviews, as well as commercial awareness interviews (CA). CA should be weaved in at any of the other interview types I mentioned, as it‘s a skill that should be highlighted naturally. Law firms value this heavily, as you can imagine. Lawyers in the commercial world are business advisors as well as legal advisors. Notice how the commerce part comes first in the term ‘commercial lawyer’ ?
• As a transactional focused law firm, I suspect the case study to be a corporate one. I also know this has been the case at A&O in the past. However, I am not completely certain about this. On tips to prepare for corporate case studies, see the two links below;

(NEW) Corporate Case Study Analysis

Hi everyone! I hope you’re all having a wonderful Sunday. As we get closer to more interviews and assessment centres (AC’s) I thought it would be helpful to include a new fictitious Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) case study analysis. Hope you enjoy the read, and feel free to pop any questions...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

Mock M&A Case Study: Analysis

Hello everyone! I hope you’re all having a fantastic day. We’re entering the season of assessment centres (ACs) at law firms, and a hot topic for many of these ACs is Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)! So, in this thread, I’ll be guiding you through a short fictitious M&A case study and highlighting...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

• Confidence. I appreciate this may sound a bit flowery, but if you’re confident on your abilities to excel at the AC, it will reflect in the responses you give. You didn’t get the AC by chance, they saw potential in you. All that’s left to do now is to calm yourself and showcase those abilities.
• Know your motivations. When I was applying, I fell into the trap of only knowing what I put in my application form. As you can imagine, this is very bad as your motivations for why law, or why X firm, shouldn’t be solely contained in 300 words or less. I took time out to understand what was driving me and why. This solid understanding made communicating those passions at length in an interview very easy. So, understand these drivers of yours. On this, avoid talking about personal experiences too much. By personal, I mean attributing your passion for Big Law to rather generic things like a person, or the international reach, etc. Focus on being specific to your experiences. For example, started a business or worked in one? Done legal work experience? Why the business side of law, and not family or immigration? Literally differentiating between the various forms of law in the interview to say ‘I liked this cause.. I didn’t like this cause..’, helps craft a solid answer. Basically.. show your journey. Nobody woke up one day and decided to go into the profession - there would be drivers. Some will be more specific and professional than others, so focus on those.
• Presentation. This is a given, but coming in professionally dressed in a smart suit goes a long way. At the end of the day, it’s a clientele role.

Again, very well done on getting to this stage. I’m sure you’ll ace it!

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!

Hey @suhana ,

I have linked a couple of helpful resources by the team below;

A complete guide for competency interview preparation

This is a guide for the purposes of preparing for competency interviews, be they in a VI, another intermediary step or an AC/final stage interview. The advice here is based on my personal approach, as I received VS offers from top US/MC firms 4/4 times I implemented it. This will include: A...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

A Guide to Building a Winning Application Strategy

Introduction This post is meant to serve you as a definitive guide to crafting your optimal application strategy. As it is quite lengthy, I have divided it into five subsections for you to navigate according to your interests: Why do you need an application strategy? How many law firms should...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

Mock M&A Case Study: Analysis

Hello everyone! I hope you’re all having a fantastic day. We’re entering the season of assessment centres (ACs) at law firms, and a hot topic for many of these ACs is Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)! So, in this thread, I’ll be guiding you through a short fictitious M&A case study and highlighting...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

Private Equity Case Study - OPEN ENGAGEMENT ENCOURAGED ;)

Hey TCLA Community! We’re back again with the mock case studies ;) This time around, I decided to take a different approach. I’ve included the case study below, and will leave the floor open for a couple of days so you can all provide your thoughts and ideas on the commercial and legal issues...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

Best of luck! You’ll do amazing!

Super excited—I just got invited to an assessment centre at HSF! 🎉 If anyone has tips or advice, please drop them below or DM me. Would really appreciate it! 😊

Congrats! I’ve quoted some posts above to help!

 

[Amma Usman]

Ropes has no work experience section wtf???? Surely in that case we need to relate the 3 characteristics question back to ourselves? Strangest application ever

Hiya,

I was actually talking about this with a friend of mine who was applying yesterday as well. Yes, you are right, I recommend linking the values to you/your experiences/how you showed them/ how you know you will transfer them at R&G and thrive in the role.

Best of luck!

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi, does anyone know how to access the Commercial Law handbook online? PDF version or Ebook

Hiya, I presume this should be available on amazon.

 

[Amma Usman]

Freshfields PFO

Hi there,

I’m sorry to hear about the PFO. I know how much effort goes into these applications, and it can be so disheartening to not get the result you were hoping for.

Please don’t let this knock your confidence, though. Rejections are such a normal part of this journey and many of the most successful lawyers faced them before finding their fit. It’s all part of the process, and I have no doubt you’ll come out stronger from this.

Keep going, you’ve got this.

 

[jacksollaf]

How long after the second-stage interview are successful candidates typically notified by Gibson Dunn?

Hey, I don't know the answer to the question, but I have the first-stage interview on Monday with Gibson Dunn! Would you please be able to give me any advice? how was yours, etc..

 

[Zaraa.x]

Is anyone in the same position as me - I applied to Slaughters on 30/10 for their vac scheme but I am yet to hear back.
This despite the fact that others applied much later than me and have received invites/PFO's.

Should I assume PFO or write an email asking for updates? I felt as though my application was strong and have extensive history with the firm so I'm genuinely lost here 😭

I’m in the similar position as well but I applied for TC 😭😭

 

[u64928428]

Hey, I don't know the answer to the question, but I have the first-stage interview on Monday with Gibson Dunn! Would you please be able to give me any advice? how was yours, etc..

mainly competency based , just be yourseld and have answers to why GD, law etc.

 

[Cool pigeon]

have you been invited yet?

There was an email on Friday

 

[lawyer195]

Did anyone get a response from Latham post AC this week (either way)?