TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

Jessica Booker

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linklaters WVS offer today.... literally over the moon!!! was so impressed by everyone at the AC i'm really in shock.

one question - does anyone have advice re: securing accom in london for those two weeks? would rather not fork out so much £££ for a hotel, but not sure what the alternatives are. unfortunately have no friends/family in commutable distance of the office that would have a spare room :(
I would speak to the firm to see if they have any recommendations.

You can sometimes book halls of residence (although this is more likely in the summer) or find private halls/professional co-living spaces that are happy to take people on for short periods if they have availability.

I know some people also book rooms in Airbnbs, especially if they are just outside of London, they can sometimes be more affordable.

Know some who end up booking a Travelodge/Premier Inn near a major train station just outside of London but in zones 3-4 and commute in too.
 
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VMS

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Oct 16, 2023
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BCLP first stage interview invite!!

I am SO SO over the moon after having a really tough last week. I'm weirdly looking forward to it?? I'm going to try and blow their socks off, haha!

I did not, in fact, blow their socks off as I got a PFO today :( On the bright side, GR have said we can contact them for feedback, so hopefully this experience will help me for future interviews.
 

legally.brown

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    I did not, in fact, blow their socks off as I got a PFO today :( On the bright side, GR have said we can contact them for feedback, so hopefully this experience will help me for future interviews.
    I’m so sorry! But the fact that you progressed to that stage is impressive :)

    If you don’t mind, can I ask how long did they take to offer you the interview after the test?
     
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    Amma Usman

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    linklaters WVS offer today.... literally over the moon!!! was so impressed by everyone at the AC i'm really in shock.

    one question - does anyone have advice re: securing accom in london for those two weeks? would rather not fork out so much £££ for a hotel, but not sure what the alternatives are. unfortunately have no friends/family in commutable distance of the office that would have a spare room :(
    Hey @rvvacscheme , huge congratulations on securing the WVS! I hope you celebrate well ;)

    It’s worth reaching out to graduate recruitment as often times they may provide support with accommodation inquiries. I have also attached the link to a website here which may be of help.
     

    Soprano

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    Feb 14, 2024
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    Hey @Soprano . I have created two threads on why commercial law and why a specific firm. I have linked these two below:

    WHY COMMERCIAL LAW: https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/why-commercial-law-investigating-your-‘why’.9113/

    WHY THIS FIRM:
    On another note;

    In all honesty, I recommend you applying to any firm out there you are drawn to. Firms generally don’t have a preference for law students over non-law students. In any case, you will still need to do the GDL/PGDL so you will otherwise still get the legal qualification. I believe leveraging your non-law work experience will also be a catalyst to your applications. For example, with your tech experience at Barclays, you could link it to many practice areas within data and technology transactions (if that’s something that still interests you as a wider industry). The key with non-law experience is leveraging your transferrable skills. Even soft skills like mastering digital email communication and interpersonal communication are a plus. The more technical elements, such as demonstrating an awareness of many practice areas from the clients perspective is another great point.

    Another thing I recommend is attending a couple of open days, as this will introduce you to the legal/commercial world from a dual standpoint. Attending open days are not a prerequisite for getting a training contract, but they certainly help. Here’s a list of open day deadlines you could apply for: https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....ay-and-insight-scheme-deadlines-2024-25.9218/

    Hope this helps!
    Thank you so much. for the detailed response. This is very helpful!
     
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