TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[gazdgazd11]

Taylor Wessing PFO one hour after submitting online tests. It was for spring VS.

I'm sorry to hear. I completed the test on 5/11/24 and haven't heard back... that's odd

 

[yasmars]

I'm sorry to hear. I completed the test on 5/11/24 and haven't heard back... that's odd

You’ve probably passed it

 

[gazdgazd11]

anyone still haven't been sent VI invitiation for DLA post passing the test?

 

[Andrei Radu]

For Gowling Q1 which is - Using the three pieces of work experience you have included above, please outline the skills these have enabled you to develop, that are transferable to the role of a Trainee Solicitor. (500 words). Want to know how did people approach this question as to whether it is okay to discuss 3 skills one skill from each experiences. Or is it better to and I should approach it as mentioning multiple skills and discussing like attention to detail from 2 experiences. Also how would you approach this question @Ram Sabaratnam @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman

There is no right or wrong answer as to the ideal approach for this type of question, as it highly depends on the nature of your work experiences. However, I think in the majority of circumstances it is better to discuss 3 different skills rather than only 1 skill illustrated by a number of experiences.

Firstly, because there numerous skills that are necessary to succeed as a trainee, and you want to seem like a well-rounded candidate for the role. Secondly, because there is a limit to the value-add of further demonstrating or emphasizing the extent of one specific skill you gained. Say you have already used 150 words to explain how you have great attention to detail and referenced an experience where you were responsible for document review. If you then choose to add another 150 words to also explain how you also showed this aptitude when doing due diligence tasks in another job, does this really add a lot of valuable information which improves your candidate profile? I do not think the second paragraph adds a lot of value, especially in comparison to the value add of discussing a more varied skill set.

Finally, as to how to generally approach this question, I really cannot put it any better than @Ram Sabaratnam has in this quoted post:

Heya @V2002

I think @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman and @Jessica Booker would definitely have more to say here. But thought I'd add my two cents here. I think using the STAR method is a great idea for structuring your response. It can provide your answer with clarity and organisation, making it easier for the reader to follow how each experience helped you develop relevant skills.

That said, the key here isn’t just structure. It’s about depth and reflection. A common pitfall I see when applicants approach these questions is that they describe their skills in overly generic terms, like “This experience helped me develop my written communication skills” or “This experience improved my teamwork abilities.” These descriptions are a bit generic, and don’t offer enough detail or insight into how the experience shaped these skills.

For example, if you’re discussing written communication skills, try to be more specific. Did your role involve a variety of writing tasks that taught you how to adjust your tone and style for different audiences? Did you learn to organise information clearly and concisely for a professional document or email? By showing this level of reflection, you demonstrate not just the skill itself but also your awareness of its nuances.

Another example would be when describing your 'research skills'. Did you learn how to assess the credibility of different sources or distil key insights for a specific audience? Did you develop techniques to manage large volumes of information effectively? Highlighting these specifics will make your examples stand out and show how the experience you're discussing has prepared you for the responsibilities of a trainee solicitor.

Ultimately, this question is asking you to showcase how these experiences helped you grow, not just stating the skills themselves. Using the STAR method will help structure your answer, but again use some reflection to answer this question with appropriate depth. Best of luck with your applications!

 

[Tcvspfo]

There is no right or wrong answer as to the ideal approach for this type of question, as it highly depends on the nature of your work experiences. However, I think in the majority of circumstances it is better to discuss 3 different skills rather than only 1 skill illustrated by a number of experiences.

Firstly, because there numerous skills that are necessary to succeed as a trainee, and you want to seem like a well-rounded candidate for the role. Secondly, because there is a limit to the value-add of further demonstrating or emphasizing the extent of one specific skill you gained. Say you have already used 150 words to explain how you have great attention to detail and referenced an experience where you were responsible for document review. If you then choose to add another 150 words to also explain how you also showed this aptitude when doing due diligence tasks in another job, does this really add a lot of valuable information which improves your candidate profile? I do not think the second paragraph adds a lot of value, especially in comparison to the value add of discussing a more varied skill set.

Finally, as to how to generally approach this question, I really cannot put it any better than @Ram Sabaratnam has in this quoted post:

This is really helpful and yes I agree with you as there is no right approach to this question. I was just worried that if I used a certain approach it might not answer the question correctly. But it is good to hear that there is no wrong way to answer this question.

 

[andrecsaa]

For learning the underlying reasoning TCLA has a good course on it, a free alternative is "commercial comrade" on youtube.

For the tests I literally just searched Watson Glaser practice and checked every link.

Thank you! I completed the test yesterday and today CC emailed me saying I passed the WG test.

Followed your tips. I watched the video from job prep test completing the full Watson Glaser test and he cleared the practice test available on the Clifford Chance website (which I was scoring max 60%).

 

[Jmk]

At what point is multiple VSs an issue? If you've done a few, does it suggest you're not worth giving one too in case you won't convert it? I'm just frustrated because I graduated five years, took a break to do a masters in an unrelated field because I was convinced after the Travers Smith VS in 2020 that I had no chance in the law. That was an expensive sulk. However, in the last cycle I got three ACs and one VS. I'm only interested in US firms. GCSEs: ABBBBCCC, A-Levels: AAA. Degree: 62.5% (2.1). I have mitigating circumstances. I did work experience at Slaughter and May in 2018 and VSs at Debevoise, Travers Smith and Ropes & Gray. I don't understand why I'm getting rejected for everything so far in this cycle. About six rejections so far. I so think open days help you jump the queue somewhat, however I've just got onto one competitive one so far. I'm 27 now.

I graduated in 2017. I also did a masters confused on what to do and trying to make myself more competitive - I don't think it helped that much just paid for another fancy title from a top university. I never had done a vac scheme prior to 2023 but had loads of work experience in other industries including consulting. I was so close to giving up but I got a TC at a silver circle firm in August - the end of the last cycle. It was going to be my last cycle before giving up - I literally got the TC 'last minute' because once September hit I would have not started the new cycle. I start my TC in March 2025 (so soon! I got very lucky) and I am currently working at the firm in another role until the TC starts . Long story short, don't give up, give it your all, it's not too late! I understand your frustration so you are not alone!

 

[Gin]

Hey can anyone recommend me some sources to practice the WG!! Just done the one for DLA and I am scoring below average in all sections😭😭 I'm crying

 

[aladdin]

Simmons WVS offer!!!!!

how long after your AC did you hear back?

 

[PFOenthusiast]

I previously worked as an online English foreign language tutor through a Chinese app, and this is something I am hoping to discuss on an application form. The issue I have is that there is no customer support / method of obtaining a reference; can I still discuss this on applications / employment history, or will this be an issue in terms of background checks etc?

 

[Zaraa.x]

I’ve come across this question and would like some clarification please - If you could work with any client as a lawyer at Lewis Silkin (even if they are not currently a client of ours), who would it be and why?

Is the best way to approach this question will be identify an individual/organisation that can properly utilise Lewis silkin services so essentially Lewis silkin would be a one-stop-shop for the client? Would I also need to mention whether or not the client resonates with Lewis Silkin values?

If I want to choose a celebrity for instance and they own a brand - do I mention the celebrity as a client or their brand.

E.G - Krept (musician) he owns Nalas Baby - do I chose Krept as my client or Nalas Baby?

I could be overthinking this simple question.

@Jessica Booker

 

[aladdin]

Simmons AC for Summer! Any insights will be helpful as contains a lot of exercises. @Andrei Radu @Jessica Booker @Amma Usman @anyone

did you hear back post AC?

 

[elsx]

anyone still haven't been sent VI invitiation for DLA post passing the test?

I am waiting as well. When did you take it? I haven't seen many people receive VI invitations recently.

 

[MT1]

I am waiting as well. When did you take it? I haven't seen many people receive VI invitations recently.

I passed on the 13th and received the VI invite this morning.

 

[elsx]

I passed on the 13th and received the VI invite this morning.

Thanks for the update although that may not be a good sign for me ...
Good luck for the VI !

 

[Chelsea101]

Hi there, is there a thread on TCLA for tips in order to convert vac schemes into offers? I have tried searching but can't find anything. Thank you

@Andrei Radu @Ram Sabaratnam

 

[lolasparks]

I passed on the 13th and received the VI invite this morning.

What location please?

 

[Andrei Radu]

Hi there, is there a thread on TCLA for tips in order to convert vac schemes into offers? I have tried searching but can't find anything. Thank you

@Andrei Radu @Ram Sabaratnam

Hi @Chelsea101 I have just found one from 2021 that seems to include many useful resources and tips, you can take a look here. Since I have had a good VS conversion rate and since WVS are approaching, I am also planning to soon write a detailed guide on the topic, so be on the lookout for that !

Besides this, I have quoted bellow a great post from @Jessica Booker outlining the biggest mistakes people make during vacation schemes.

General themes why I have seen people not convert their VS to TC:

Arrogance/over confidence - it’s important to be confident on schemes but there are some candidates who just seem to think they are better than the rest of their cohort and that they will convert.

Lack of interest in the work - not asking questions, doing the work to a basic level, not asking for feedback or follow up conversations.

Spending too much time networking - too many coffee catch ups at the expense of doing work for their department

Over committing - saying yes to everything and then realising they don’t have enough time to do the things they have said they would.

Bad mouthing/manipulation: either talking bad of others (even at other firms) or trying to use their other experiences as a bit of a power trip (for instance bringing their other schemes/offers into conversations when there is no need to).

Not asking for guidance on their work: leading to spending too much time or having too many mistakes in their work

 

[RonRod13]

Anyone had a Travers interview this cycle? message me!

Did you get the interview for them? I thought they only give out interviews after the deadline?

 

[ashwright]

Thank you! I completed the test yesterday and today CC emailed me saying I passed the WG test.

Followed your tips. I watched the video from job prep test completing the full Watson Glaser test and he cleared the practice test available on the Clifford Chance website (which I was scoring max 60%).

Guys...I think TCLA has become an animal sanctuary.... I JUST FOUND THE GOAT!!! 🐐🐐🐐🐐

Big congratulations, you absolute legend 🙏🙏🙏
As I hope to join the goat sanctuary one day, may I ask which video you're referring to?