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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

-legal-

Esteemed Member
Premium Member
Jul 5, 2023
77
79
Hi @Jessica Booker ,

I have just been accepted in a Pro bono placement programme which I will be able to add to my CV from early to mid November onwards as I have not done anything yet. Will I be at a disadvantage if I wait until at least mid November to apply to firms that are rolling (Reed, Dentons, Bakers, OC)?
 

Tintin06

Legendary Member
Oct 23, 2019
805
1,946
Thanks for asking! I haven’t heard, but it was very conversational and everyone I met was extremely nice! Great firm. I think it went pretty well but always hard to tell. I was happy with how I presented myself but as we all know it is extremely competitive so who knows the outcome. Really enjoyed the process, waiting to hear is the hard part! Have you got an interview with them?
Not yet, they're in my top five firms though, along with Willkie, Milbank, SullCrom (who aren't open yet) and White & Case. Were many other people doing interviews that day? I know the Jones Day interview is literally just go in, have an interview, leave. Is Sidley more of an AC?
 

THE GOAT

Well-Known Member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Jun 9, 2024
21
68
Not yet, they're in my top five firms though, along with Willkie, Milbank, SullCrom (who aren't open yet) and White & Case. Were many other people doing interviews that day? I know the Jones Day interview is literally just go in, have an interview, leave. Is Sidley more of an AC?
As far as I am aware I was the only one that day but no idea tbh. It is just an 1hr 15 interview.
 
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tcla02

Star Member
Premium Member
  • Sep 25, 2024
    34
    23
    hi I got the email from DLA saying I have to take the WG and that the link is another email but so far I have received no emails with the test. It's been one day since they sent me the first email and I do not know what to do anymore. anyone have any ideas?
     

    l789

    Legendary Member
    Aug 19, 2020
    168
    237
    No I was rejected, unfortunately. I just submitted my App so I'm thinking it is unlikely I'll get far.
    Thanks for replying… sorry to hear about that.

    I also got rejected, even though I thought my application was ridiculously strong. Allaboutlaw said it was due to capacity issues that they couldn’t invite everyone.


    Nevertheless I attended a virtual event with HL through Allaboutlaw and gained some very unique insights so hope that will help my application.

    wishing you the best outcome for the application- I know you can do it!!!
     

    Ram Sabaratnam

    Legendary Member
    Staff member
    Future Trainee
    Gold Member
    Premium Member
    Sep 7, 2024
    383
    870
    Hi, I am applying to a VS for a firm with the same application questions as the TC I applied for in July. They sent an email saying that they had filled all their spots for the TC and would not be progressing my application as a result of no more TCs being available.

    I am under the impression that they did not review my application. Would it be okay to use the same answers I submitted a few months ago or would this be disadvantageous? @Jessica Booker Thank you!

    Hiya @Chelsea101 :)

    It's great that you're reapplying for a vacation scheme, but to build on what @Jessica Booker said, I'd recommend against submitting the same application you used for the training contract application in July. Even if the firm didn’t review your previous application, updating it shows that you've reflected on your experiences, motivations, and have gained fresh insights since then.

    In previous cycles, Jess and several other Community Assistants have emphasised to me the importance of going beyond just updating factual information. For example, for any commercially focussed questions, it’s worth discussing something more recent than what you mentioned in your previous application. The legal industry, particularly commercial law, is dynamic and constantly evolving. Firms want to see that you’re keeping up to date with these changes and understand how current events impact their clients and the sectors they operate in. Using recent developments in your answers not only demonstrates your commercial awareness but also shows your genuine interest in staying informed and engaged.

    Similarly, when discussing your motivations for joining the firm or your research into their work, it’s important to refine these points to reflect any new insights or areas of interest. For instance, you might ask yourself what you've learnt about the firm since your last application; have there been any recent developments in their practice areas, deals/cases, or CSR/EDI initiatives that have resonated with you? By reflecting on such questions, you can ensure that your reasons for wanting to join the firm remain current, thoughtful, and tailored to any new information you've gained.

    Best of luck!
     

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