TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[a1024]

hey! has anyone heard back from Gibson Dunn?

 

[VMS]

Me rewriting my HFW app for the sixth time like:

 

[rras]

Yes you are right!

She did mention the last point about optional information and distinguishing between candidates.

All the info just merged into one, given the speed at which the grad rec was rushing through the presentation.

She also said for the commercial awareness story - split it 50/50

So 50% talking about the commercial news story and 50% talking about the impact on clients or whatever way you relate it to the clients.

I’m so exhausted from yesterday and didn’t feel I got much out of the event. The networking element had barely any trainee representatives and I didn’t leave the firm feeling particularly inspired which is always the case when I’ve visited other firms. Maybe it was just a blip, and everyone was tired or unavailable idk.

On this, is the additional information section under university education where it says 'Please add any supplementary educational information.' ? I can't see any other place to put optional information... it would feel a little strange to write about work experience or any other topic here, but if it's an expectation for progression then I guess you should?

 

[pleasepleaseplease]

Unlikely to be a deal breaker as it isn't really a typo, more a stylistic point.

Hi Jessica, apologies for replying to this message but I don't know how to tag users. I just wanted to know whether you would recommend doing a cover letter to Goldman Sachs along with the CV? Asking because a cover letter is not mandatory. Thanks!

 

[👩🎓]

Hi @Amma Usman and @Jessica Booker . Do you have any advice on answering this question - Describe an experience where you encountered an unexpected obstacle? I'm not sure what type of example to use or what firms are looking for in terms of "unexpected obstacles"/ examples to draw upon. Also, would you expect to see a change in example for answering a question which asks you to draw upon a challenge you have faced in a different application?

Any advice would be highly appreciated - thank you.

 

[Jessica Booker]

Hi Jessica, apologies for replying to this message but I don't know how to tag users. I just wanted to know whether you would recommend doing a cover letter to Goldman Sachs along with the CV? Asking because a cover letter is not mandatory. Thanks!

Are there application questions?

 

[lookingforaTC]

Can anyone please confirm what the test for Taylor Wessing is?

btw, I do not believe all applicants receive the test - so it is the second stage.

 

[IneedaTCASAP]

How long should the Taylor Wessing cover letter be. I saw someone say 1/4 of a page is that correct.

 

[lookingforaTC]

How long should the Taylor Wessing cover letter be. I saw someone say 1/4 of a page is that correct.

You don't need one.

 

[PlimptonWeld]

To contribute to the Cleary discussion, I'm 99% sure it's part of the process now because I was sent one not too long after applying. Not sure if it's a "filter" with a concrete benchmark though.

Do you know when we might hear back about AC invite? Do you think AC invite will roll out to those with WGs? Last year, I got my Cleary WG test with my AC invite.

 

[yasmars]

How long should the Taylor Wessing cover letter be. I saw someone say 1/4 of a page is that correct.

Mine was 1 side of A4

 

[cleojwilliams]

Has anyone by any chance received a pfo from DLA piper after VI

 

[Uch21]

Asking for a friend: "I am a third-year engineering student seeking vacation schemes in law firms. I have no legal experience, but I have interned at Barclays as a technology analyst. How should I approach the application questions such as why law, why commercial law etc. what firms do you recommend to me as a non-law student." Thank you

I would suggest they do one or two virtual internships on Forage. This will give them insight into the kind of work solicitors do and really help articulate the why law/commercial law aspect. Many firms hire STEM students; look for what particular aspect they are interested in and search for firms that specialise in that.

 

[IneedaTCASAP]

You don't need one.

On the website it states a cover letter.

 

[Uch21]

Does anyone know if HSF weighs the SJT more than the personality questionnaire?

 

[yasmars]

I applied a few days ago but I haven't received it...Should i reach out to grad rec if its automatic?

Hey, I don’t think it’s automatic. It’s part of the next stage

 

[s9111]

Hey, I don’t think it’s automatic. It’s part of the next stage

I think it is automatic - my test email said "We are pleased to confirm receipt of your application. As part of the process, you will need to complete some online tests."

 

[billyonthespeeddial]

Do you know when we might hear back about AC invite? Do you think AC invite will roll out to those with WGs? Last year, I got my Cleary WG test with my AC invite.

no idea, my first time applying

 

[yasmars]

I think it is automatic - my test email said "We are pleased to confirm receipt of your application. As part of the process, you will need to complete some online tests."

Maybe it is, I've seen conflicting information on this

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey guys! I have a very quick normal 2 AM application doubt that’s struck me. In the TW application, one of the questions is

• What motivates you for a career in law at Taylor Wessing, and what key skills would you bring?

Do I stick to “Why TW” for this answer, or should I delve into “Why a career in commercial law” as well?

Hey @Mariyam_M , you are right in your approach. Ideally, the answer should sufficiently cover all the three points below. I have also included a few specific tips:

1. What Attracts You to Taylor Wessing


Discuss what specifically draws you to Taylor Wessing. Mention a couple of the firm's practice areas, such as technology, life sciences, or private wealth, and explain why these align with your interests. If the firm has a strong reputation in niche areas—like intellectual property protection in emerging technologies or regulatory insights in data privacy—acknowledge how these areas resonate with you and align with your own ambitions to contribute in these spaces. This is because showing demonstrated interest through practice areas does not necessarily always have to be by focusing on only Band 1 rankings.


2. Why Commercial Law as a Field


While the question doesn’t directly ask for your motivation for commercial law, you can embed this briefly to provide context for why Taylor Wessing is the right firm for you. Explain your interest in commercial law by focusing on its nature of understanding and addressing diverse business challenges.

You should also highlight any experiences that fuel this interest, such as exposure to commercial transactions, legal research, or a prior internship where you saw how legal solutions drive commercial success. The possibilities of what you could explain here are really endless. Highlight any non-legal work experience as well, as these are really valuable too!


3. Key Skills and Value You Bring

Conclude with the unique skills you bring to the table and how they would enable you to contribute effectively at Taylor Wessing. Start by identifying skills relevant to the firm’s work, such as problem-solving abilities, a strategic mindset, or strong analytical skills. For instance, if you have experience in legal research or contract drafting, mention how these skills have strengthened your attention to detail, enabling you to work more efficiently. This will be a quality essential in a law firm.

You could also touch on any soft skills as well, such as your ability to work collaboratively in teams, strong communication skills for client interactions, and adaptability to dynamic, client-driven projects.