TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[lolasparks]

Hi! @Andrei Radu

I applied for the Davis Polk open day and was successful, and now I am writing my application for their vac scheme. Both the open day and the vac scheme have this exact question:
"Please give details of your interests, extracurricular activities, positions of responsibility, skills and achievements. Please also include any other information that you feel is relevant to your application (300 words)"

Is it okay to write the exact same answer that I wrote for the open day given the answer was met with success? (and in the time between writing the open day application and now the vac scheme, not much as changed regarding the answer anyway).

If not, how would you suggest I improve/change it for the vac scheme application?

Many thanks

Hey, I'm obviously not Andrei, so don't have to listen to me whatsoever!

But I think I saw a similar question on the forum, and the answer was that it is highly encouraged to not use the same exact answer. Open days are way less competitive than VS, so what may have worked then may not work now. This was also echoed in my L/W open day which may, again, not be relevant to you.

I think it is normal that your experiences may have not changed but I’m pretty sure they do encourage you to change your answer somehow, structure, language etc…

Hope this helps, if not, ignore me completely

 

[lolasparks]

How long after were you informed! and what vacation scheme did you apply for I am doing summer!!

I don't remember the exact time frame but I'm pretty sure it was no more than a week! Also doing summer, I think all their internships are for summer

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi! @Andrei Radu

I applied for the Davis Polk open day and was successful, and now I am writing my application for their vac scheme. Both the open day and the vac scheme have this exact question:
"Please give details of your interests, extracurricular activities, positions of responsibility, skills and achievements. Please also include any other information that you feel is relevant to your application (300 words)"

Is it okay to write the exact same answer that I wrote for the open day given the answer was met with success? (and in the time between writing the open day application and now the vac scheme, not much as changed regarding the answer anyway).

If not, how would you suggest I improve/change it for the vac scheme application?

Many thanks

Hiya @Legalgirl

I wanted to jump in here and add to what @lolasparks insightfully mentioned. I'm also sure @Andrei Radu would have more to say here.

First, I’d advise against using the exact same answer from your open day application for the vacation scheme. While the answer was successful the first time, vacation scheme applications are often more competitive, and so using the same answer does not guarantee that you will be successful here (in fact, there's reason to think that if you used the exact same answer, your application may even be rejected). Second, it's worth noting that while the application question may be the same, firms will often look for different things in an open day application when compared to a vacation scheme application. Thus, it's important to try to update your answer to this question, showing refined motivations and a stronger understanding of the firm. I'm a firm believer in the idea that each application should feel fresh and tailored to the specific opportunity.

Since you’ve already attended the open day, you now have the opportunity to build on your original answer by reflecting on what you learned and how it has strengthened your motivations for applying to Davis Polk. For instance, did you gain any new insights into the firm’s culture, its practice areas, or the way it works with clients? Did you meet anyone at the open day who inspired you or gave you an interesting perspective on the firm? Including this kind of detail will show that you’ve taken the time to develop your understanding of Davis Polk and have actively engaged with the firm. The open day also presents a perfect opportunity to help you showcase how your skills, achievements, and interests have developed since your open day application.

Best of luck with your application. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions!

 

[g.cl.2020344]

Is anyone else getting tired of no responses from firms. I thought early apps for firms would mean hearing back early esp if they are non rolling but I guess not

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi everyone and congrats/ good luck on your apps!

I just wanted to ask for some advice regarding W&C - I was just rejected post-VI for their VS last night, but iirc I can still apply for their TC in this cycle. Would you recommend editing/further tailoring the online application when I reapply? Naturally I have some things to update such as Careers Events I have attended and work experience etc, but otherwise is it fine to copy-paste my online app* given that it's the same cycle?
*Aside from the covering letter of course.

I know the chances of being accepted straight for a TC are slim in comparison to VS but figured it's worth a shot. Apologies if this is the wrong forum - please direct me to the correct one if this isn't the right place

Hiya @tholds

I think it’s absolutely fine to apply again (and I'd highly recommend you do so)! It’s great that you’re already planning to update your cover letter - that’s always my recommended first step! You don't have to revise all sections of your application, but it might be worth doing so if you think you can add a bit more depth or better showcase the skills you've used during work experiences. While your current work experience entries don’t need to change drastically, I'd encourage you to think about how you can refine or expand on these other aspects of your application.

One important thing to note is that applications for White & Case’s direct training contract are not reviewed on a rolling basis (unlike their vacation scheme). This means you can take your time over the next few months to build your profile further. Whether it’s volunteering, taking on a part-time role, getting involved with societies, or attending legal events, these small additions can round out your application and make a positive difference.

Finally, I’d encourage you to keep going with your other vacation scheme applications too. Many people have been in your shoes! One former community assistant at TCLA, for example, was rejected from a vacation scheme with White & Case, but ended up securing a training contract with them after completing schemes with other firms. I’ve no doubt that you can do the same! Best of luck, and feel free to reach out if you need more help!

 

[Legalgirl]

Hey, I'm obviously not Andrei, so don't have to listen to me whatsoever!

But I think I saw a similar question on the forum, and the answer was that it is highly encouraged to not use the same exact answer. Open days are way less competitive than VS, so what may have worked then may not work now. This was also echoed in my L/W open day which may, again, not be relevant to you.

I think it is normal that your experiences may have not changed but I’m pretty sure they do encourage you to change your answer somehow, structure, language etc…

Hope this helps, if not, ignore me completely

Hiya @Legalgirl

I wanted to jump in here and add to what @lolasparks insightfully mentioned. I'm also sure @Andrei Radu would have more to add here.

First, I’d highly recommend not reusing the exact same answer from your open day application for the vacation scheme. While the answer was successful the first time, vacation scheme applications are often more competitive, and so using the same answer does not guarantee that you will be successful (in fact, there's reason to think that if you used the exact same answer, your application may even be rejected). Second, it's worth noting that while the application question may be the same, firms will often look for different things in an open day application when compared to a vacation scheme application. Thus, it's important to try to update your answer to this question, showing refined motivations and a stronger understanding of the firm. I'm a firm believer in the idea that each application should feel fresh and tailored to the specific opportunity.

Since you’ve already attended the open day, you now have the opportunity to build on your original answer by reflecting on what you learned and how it has strengthened your motivations for applying to Davis Polk. For instance, did you gain any new insights into the firm’s culture, its practice areas, or the way it works with clients? Did you meet anyone at the open day who inspired you or gave you an interesting perspective on the firm? Including this kind of detail will show that you’ve taken the time to develop your understanding of Davis Polk and have actively engaged with the firm. The open day also presents a perfect opportunity to help you showcase how your skills, achievements, and interests have developed since your open day application.

Best of luck with your application. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions!

Thank you guys so much, this is very helpful!

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

@Jessica Booker for someone who hasn’t done a law firm vacation scheme before, how useful would it be mentioning the legal cheek winter vacation scheme in my future applications?

Hiya @Aspiringsolicitor01

Completely agree with @Jessica Booker (to absolutely nobody's surprise)!

These schemes are fantastic experience to mention in your applications! In my first application cycle, I relied heavily on opportunities like the Legal Cheek Winter Vacation Scheme to demonstrate my interest in and understanding of the legal profession. They offered important insights that I eventually leveraged in my open day and vacation scheme applications. They also helped me demonstrate my proactive efforts to learn more about commercial law and specific firms.

What’s key is to highlight how the scheme helped you develop your appreciation for the distinctiveness of commercial law. If you engaged with specific firms or lawyers during the scheme, it's perfectly fine to mention them and how these interactions shaped your understanding of the profession. When I did the Legal Cheek scheme, for instance, I attended online talks with lawyers from various firms, and these insights became useful points to discuss in my applications when explaining why I wanted to attend open days or vacation schemes at their firms.

For those of us without a direct route into the profession, schemes like these offer a low barrier to entry and can be incredibly valuable in helping candidates develop their understanding of commercial. Definitely include it in your applications! 😊

 

[Tclarocks123]

I am reapplying to a firm after failing the video interview. The issue is I do not want to fix what is not broken. How do I go about "updating" my app without losing the essence? @Jessica Booker @Ram Sabaratnam

 

[bella98]

Anything from Taylor Wessing post-test for the summer scheme? it's been a while... ahaha

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

@Jessica Booker for Skadden’s application they ask:

“If you had to choose a career apart from law, what would it be”

For this question is it okay to pick a career that is vastly different from the role of a lawyer? I’ve always been interested in technology and would probably be a software engineer if I wasn’t pursuing a career in law. Would that be an acceptable answer or are they looking for a much more commercial profession like consulting or banking?

Thanks for the help!

Hiya @Amehta1

I think it’s absolutely fine to mention a career path that’s different from banking or consulting! In fact, choosing something you’re genuinely passionate about, like software engineering, can make your answer stand out (and show you have a personality!). The key is to explain why that career appeals to you, ensuring it isn't too far at odds with the sort of skills expected in a legal career.

For example, when I’ve answered this type of question, I’ve mentioned roles like investigative journalism or research in foreign policy at one of my favourite think tanks . I focused on what drew me to those paths, describing the way I'd be using my analytical thinking or problem-solving, or even just getting the chance to work on impactful issues. Similarly, you could highlight what fascinates you about software engineering, like logical thinking, creativity in problem-solving, or attention to detail, and discuss these in a way that shows (rather than explicitly tells) the reader that you're interested in the sort of skills, challenges, and opportunities that make for a good commercial lawyer.

The aim isn’t to choose something “commercial” but to show that you’re reflective and thoughtful about your interests. Best of luck, and let us know if you need more advice!

 

[James Wakefield]

Anything from Taylor Wessing post-test for the summer scheme? it's been a while... ahaha

Still waiting for the test here. How long did it take you to get it?

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

I am reapplying to a firm after failing the video interview. The issue is I do not want to fix what is not broken. How do I go about "updating" my app without losing the essence? @Jessica Booker @Ram Sabaratnam

Hiya @Tclarocks123 👀

I think it's understandable that you don’t want to change what worked (I remember feeling this way with some firms that I re-applied to during my second cycle), but depending on how long ago you applied, giving your application a bit of a facelift is important. Without some updates, there's a risk that your application may come across as though you haven’t developed your experiences or motivations, which could reflect poorly.

Not everything needs to change. Your academic results, degree, or some work experience entries may still be relevant and appropriate to keep. However, here are just some things to keep in mind when updating and strengthening your application:

1. Work Experience: Have you undertaken any new roles, attended any legal or commercial events, or gained insight through extracurricular activities? Even if the roles are unrelated to law, think about transferable skills you’ve developed, such as teamwork, leadership, or analytical thinking.
   
   
2. Motivations for the Firm: Your core interests in the firm might remain the same. For example, you might still be interested in a firm's strength in private equity or disputes or certain sectors. However, how has your understanding of the firm's capabilities in these areas deepened since your last application? Have you read about recent deals, awards, or initiatives that resonate with you? Have you had any new experiences that have given you fresh insights into these areas? Again, you don't need to radically rethink your main motivations for joining the firm, but think about how your personal experiences and the firm's work have developed since your last app.
   
   
3. Commercial Awareness: For any commercial related questions, it's worth reflecting on any industry trends or challenges the firm might face. If you're still mentioning news stories or trends that are a bit outdated, this is your chance to think about how to update this area in a way that makes your application more relevant.
   
   
4. Personal Growth: Think about how you’ve evolved since your last application. Have you developed skills like resilience or adaptability, especially if you’ve faced challenges (like the video interview itself)? Share how these experiences have prepared you for a legal career.

By addressing these areas, I think you should be able to preserve the basic aspects of your original application while demonstrating growth and a stronger connection to the firm. Best of luck with the application!

 

[billyonthespeeddial]

I hope Cleary and Dechert are now considering us for Spring or Summer, like W&C seems to be doing!

Well, right after I said that Dechert grad rec emailed saying they've filled their places for WVS and asking if I'd like to be considered for Spring ahah

 

[Boating]

Anyone who successfully passed the white and case app stage, can i see your app? I just want to compare to mine because I thought mine was alright

 

[Lawstudent14576]

Anything from Taylor Wessing post-test for the summer scheme? it's been a while... ahaha

In the email it said we would here back by the end of November so I’m thinking in the next few days (this was for the spring scheme)

 

[Scarlett27]

Damn, the irwin Mitchell test was sooo long and one vi question caught me off guard😭

(I also think I took more time than advised)

So worried now!!

Hi, do you have any tips on how to prepare for the VI section please? The situation based questions sound difficult!

 

[andreilover01]

I think this is a question that is meant to enable you to showcase some of your personality. I would not focus too much on the word 'inspirations', I interpret the prompt to cover a discussion of any enterprise or activity that is of value to you outside of school and professional endeavors. The question clearly invites you to include broader and more personal projects as well, so I would definitely considering mentioning sports or arts-related activities, even if you do not think you have achieved particularly impressive results. Ultimately, this answer is your opportunity to show yourself as a well-rounded individual.

Can I talk about debate and the steps I took to improve?

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Can I talk about debate and the steps I took to improve?

Hi @andreilover01

I’m sure you'd just LOOOOOVE some insight from @Andrei Radu (and I would too tbh), but I just wanted to chime in to say YES, you can absolutely talk about debate and the steps you’ve taken to improve your skills. It’s a great example that can be taken in a lot of interesting directions. That said, the question isn't mainly asking you to focus primarily on how you've developed your competency in the activity, but trying to explore what you find interesting or appealing about this activity. You can definitely mention your ability to use/develop certain skills when carrying out this specific extracurricular activity and describe how you've gone about doing so. Just make sure not to lose focus of what the question is mainly asking you to do, which is to describe why you find the activity interesting/inspiring. Is it the intellectual challenge, the challenge of presenting a strong argument and persuading others, or the collaboration with teammates to find the best arguments for your position? If it's one or another of these, bring that reason right up top when discussing the activity. Showing what interests you will help bring your response to life and give the reader a real sense of your personality.

If the word count allows, it might also be worth mentioning another interest or two which showcases a broader range of activities and what you enjoy about them. For instance, if you’re into art, a particular sport, or anything else really, how do these hobbies inspire or challenge you in unique ways? By discussing multiple activities, you can demonstrate different facets of your character and the skills or qualities they’ve helped you develop. Ultimately, as Andrei mentioned, the question is about giving the reader a glimpse of your personality: what excites and motivates you outside of education and work. So while debate is one great activity to mention, try to give the reader a multifaceted window into your personality. Good luck with your application!

 

[milo]

Hiya @Tclarocks123 👀

I think it's understandable that you don’t want to change what worked (I remember feeling this way with some firms that I re-applied to during my second cycle), but depending on how long ago you applied, giving your application a bit of a facelift is important. Without some updates, there's a risk that your application may come across as though you haven’t developed your experiences or motivations, which could reflect poorly.

Not everything needs to change. Your academic results, degree, or some work experience entries may still be relevant and appropriate to keep. However, here are just some things to keep in mind when updating and strengthening your application:

1. Work Experience: Have you undertaken any new roles, attended any legal or commercial events, or gained insight through extracurricular activities? Even if the roles are unrelated to law, think about transferable skills you’ve developed, such as teamwork, leadership, or analytical thinking.
   
   
2. Motivations for the Firm: Your core interests in the firm might remain the same. For example, you might still be interested in a firm's strength in private equity or disputes or certain sectors. However, how has your understanding of the firm's capabilities in these areas deepened since your last application? Have you read about recent deals, awards, or initiatives that resonate with you? Have you had any new experiences that have given you fresh insights into these areas? Again, you don't need to radically rethink your main motivations for joining the firm, but think about how your personal experiences and the firm's work have developed since your last app.
   
   
3. Commercial Awareness: For any commercial related questions, it's worth reflecting on any industry trends or challenges the firm might face. If you're still mentioning news stories or trends that are a bit outdated, this is your chance to think about how to update this area in a way that makes your application more relevant.
   
   
4. Personal Growth: Think about how you’ve evolved since your last application. Have you developed skills like resilience or adaptability, especially if you’ve faced challenges (like the video interview itself)? Share how these experiences have prepared you for a legal career.

By addressing these areas, I think you should be able to preserve the basic aspects of your original application while demonstrating growth and a stronger connection to the firm. Best of luck with the application!

Hi there, obviously I appreciate an application can always be refined or updated, but do you know whether firms can access/retain old applications and if not, how will they know whether or not you've updated your app?

 

[bella98]

@Ram Sabaratnam I recall you previously mentioned avoiding the generic response, 'I am interested in both law and business,' when addressing the question of why I chose commercial law. I typically prefer a structured approach to these types of questions where I write three key points, starting with how my interest in the field began and so on. Could the intersection of law and business be one of those points, or does that come across as too broad? The reason I ask is that I studied law and also ran a small business, so I often incorporate that into my answer as one of the key points. Thank youu