Yeah, last year I put down societies, positions of responsibility and achievements in terms of like winning a competition or a prize. I’d say don’t just list them but explain in depth your role, the result, what qualities or skills you picked up very briefly. I got through to the AC last year so hopefully that helps.
Same - PFO without submitting an application. I think it's automatic if you don't complete the app. I started but because of the open day apps I got app fatigue. Plus I only really want 1 firm 🤷♂️
Nope! I was informed they will get back to us towards the end of the week
I am not sure about the A&O's specific policies about this but I think the general rule is that firms will be fine with you writing in prose. I know some have a slight preference for bullet points, but it is unlikely this will have a significant impact on your progression chances. However, I know some firms specifically dislike the use of bullet points as they think aspiring solicitors should try to demonstrate everywhere in their application a capacity to write very clearly in prose. As such, unless you find out anything to indicate the contrary, I think you can assume writing in prose is the safer bet.
If possible, I think it is best to do both. When asked the same question in an interview, I specifically stated that this can be interpreted as both as (i) which firms cover the same segment of the market, in that they have the most similar 'types' of firms; or (ii) who is the firm's toughest competition when pitching for mandates for the firm's most important practice areas.
I would expect this not to be the case for most firms - the general rule is you cannot reapply for a VS/TC in the same cycle, but Open Days are considered independently. I actually know @Ram Sabaratnam got rejected for an Open Day and then got accepted for a VS by the same firm in the same cycle. As such, unless there is any reason to think the contrary, I would assume you can still make a direct TC application.
Generally, I advise people to put all of their past vacation schemes in the work experience section. As you mention, it gives a clear indication to the recruitment team at any firm that you were among the very based candidates of a very high number. Recruiters are also quite aware that since the quality of vacation schemers is already extremely high, TC conversion can often hinge on very small margins. Furthermore, they know that many factors beyond a candidate's control will influence progression chances, such as: the supervisor you are allocated, your practice area, the level of demand for that practice area at the moment of the VS, the different level of weigh given to different assessment criteria and to the different input of people at the firm etc. As such, I normally think it's quite a significant mistake not to include a VS in a new application.
Do you really need to reference all three people for each reason? I would expect 1-2 references to be sufficient, otherwise there is a risk that it comes across more what you have been told by others rather than your motivations for the firm.
Definitely agree with this - all vacation schemes should be listed. It is better to include them than not have the evidence of pursuing the career.
