TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Amma Usman]

When you reapply to a firm, do you mention it tactfully to exhibit that you’re really driven to this particular firm? Or leave it out

Hey @gazdgazd11 , good question. I’m sure you’re familiar with this - often times applications will have the section which asks ‘have you applied to X before’. You could include it there and perhaps leave it out of the other parts of the application, so as to maximise your word count on the other elements with more added value.

 

[Aspiringsolicitor01]

Do you guys know which firm is using Vantage for the vacation scheme applications?

HSF
Lewis Silkin
Osborne Clarke

The ones I know of

 

[Amma Usman]

@Andrei Radu
How important do you think it is to attend a firm's open day? Would it significantly increase my chance of getting a VS? Thanks!

Hey @KBanana , @Andrei Radu will have additional thoughts on this, but from my experience;

Open days are a plus. Generally, it will be easier for a candidate to show demonstrated interest in a firm when they have already come in contact with them/their work, via an open day. However, it is not necessarily a prerequisite to an offer. It could very well get you past the application stage, but you will need to supplement your other qualities and strengths in subsequent stages to get an offer. I have been to open days at firms and gotten ACs, and vice versa. It largely depends on the firm‘s “fast-track policy” and if you are able to really sell yourself and why you want to be at that firm in particular.

 

[Amma Usman]

Is anyone else applying to Davis Polk’s Open Day or has attended their Open Day and is able to kindly provide insight, please?

Hey @studentdelaw786 , @Andrei Radu would be able to tell you more about Davis Polk

 

[Amma Usman]

Hope everyone is having a good weekend I just had two questions re interviews:

1. When it comes to 'Why this firm?', should you still link your points to yourself? E.g. if you mention a specific practice area, their secondment opportunities etc., should you mention a personal experience/attribute that supports why you're even mentioning these points?
2. For scenario-based questions (e.g. 'What would you do if [...]?') is there a template that can be used (like the STAR structure for competency questions)? I'm asking because, at the start of your responses, couldn't you just say that you could refer to the firm's policy manual/contact your supervisor if there is an issue?

Hey @seaweed.bond , good questions. For the first question, I have actually made a post on this earlier, which I have linked below;

Why This Firm? 🤔💭 : Crafting Applications

Hi TCLA Community! 😁 I created this thread because we all know that October is the season of drafting more and more applications for law firms. Knowing that you want to work at a particular firm is one thing; effectively demonstrating why that specific firm interests you is another. There are...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

As for your second question, it’s worth stating what you would do briefly, and then linking back to a time when you had to do the same/similar task, as this would allow you to showcase the competency better. Referring to the firm’s policy manual or contacting a supervisor would arguably miss the element of proactivity. You want to showcase yourself as a candidate that’s willing to go the extra mile to solve a problem. You could then subsequently check in with your manager for any points which need clarification.

Hope this helps!

 

[theonecompetant]

Hi. Some law firms are asking for abilities in programming languages (albeit an optional category in the application form). Is being proficient in any programming language really a deal-breaker? To the point where it places a candidate in a pretty good position? Thanks.

 

[FLOWERYELLOW2002]

Does anyone have any insight on Simmons & Simons AC, what it involves, how best to prepare etc

 

[Amma Usman]

Anyone applying/applied for bakers? I'm unsure how to go about the first question, discussing a topic you're passionate about and how it's impacted you personally or professionally.

I've heard some firms in the past say they like when you go a bit out there, say you're really passionate about dodgeball or something. But with the wording of this "a topic" I'm more inclined to go for something a bit more generic.

@wqueens8 . From my experience with these questions, you could really touch on anything - including dodgeball! It doesn’t have to be a largely commercial or trendy topic - indeed, this would probably even make your answer look more generic. Really dig deep on what has impacted you from the two angles the question asks. Understanding your passions will give you a lot to talk about. Overall, if you’re passionate about something, it shows vividly from your writing. Avoid falling into the trap of talking about what you think firms would want to hear and more on what really excites you.

Hope this helps!

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi. Some law firms are asking for abilities in programming languages (albeit an optional category in the application form). Is being proficient in any programming language really a deal-breaker? To the point where it places a candidate in a pretty good position? Thanks.

Hey @theonecompetant , thanks for your question! Being good at programming is surely a plus but is also not a dealbreaker.

 

[Amma Usman]

I’ve got my first ever open day tomorrow following a competitive application process, with interactive elements and skill sessions and stuff like that, and I was just wondering whether anyone had any advice over what to expect/ what not to do/ how to make a good impression with everyone?

I’m super excited ! but also quite nervy ahah

Hey @sammm10101 , congratulations on the open day! On tips, I’d say...

• Take lots of notes - this will give you points to easily reference in subsequent applications.
• Additionally, network network network! You will meet a lot of lawyers, peers, and you should forge as many genuine connections as possible. I still keep in touch with many people I’ve met from past open days.
• The open day will also cover the firm’s expertise across practice areas so this would be a good opportunity for you to develop your knowledge on the City.
• If you’ve had any burning questions on the profession as well, now is your time to ask.

Hope this helps!

 

[BillSikes]

Those who have done PWC VI - are there still 6 questions? And how long is the time to record our answers?

 

[nliro85]

Burgess app asks which 3 practice areas you you would be most interested in spending time in the most. Should we link it to the firm's strength or work in these areas or just discuss why we are interested in these practice areas.

 

[LimitedLiabilityLover]

For Latham open day - do you have to do assessment before the deadline?

Before the deadline they give you in the confirmation email, but if this overruns the application deadline it is fine.

 

[lolasparks]

Hi, for Latham and Watkins open day, is it only one competency based question in the video interview or multiple?

 

[Amma Usman]

Burgess app asks which 3 practice areas you you would be most interested in spending time in the most. Should we link it to the firm's strength or work in these areas or just discuss why we are interested in these practice areas.

Hey @nliro85 , I suggest linking it to the firm’s work in the practices, but ensure you explain both your interest and the firm’s capabilities fully.

 

[wowcha]

Tell us about a challenge you have faced. What are the skills you used to overcome that challenge and how are they transferable to help you with a career as a lawyer

Is this question best answered in reference to a challenge in the pursuit of a career in law or can it be a challenge in another capacity, eg. in another role / in a personal capacity / throughout academic journey?

 

[Audric_T]

I found out I passed 2 days after completing the test. My report was ‘further exploration’ for all areas. Best of luck with applications!!

Thank you so much for your reply I did mine and got one strength the rest further exploration, hopefully they like my application to progress me to the next stage I wish you all the best for the next stages

 

[nliro85]

Hey @nliro85 , I suggest linking it to the firm’s work in the practices, but ensure you explain both your interest and the firm’s capabilities fully.

Thank you for this it is helpful. I was thinking of doing it but wanted to make sure I was answering the question.

 

[airyfairy123]

Before the deadline they give you in the confirmation email, but if this overruns the application deadline it is fine.

Hey, do you know what is asked in the VI?

 

[Izzy1026]

Where can we find the core values of Covington? I know they value collegiality, collaboration and public service. What else should I emphasise on?