TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Jessica Booker]

Do Sullivan and Cromwell take graduates for the vac scheme?

Unfortunately it looks like you need to currently be studying.

This is from their website:

 

[Rus]

Similar test to this one:

. The video is pretty insightful actually. Still, I didn't pass the test. Make of that what you

Thank you! Seems like an annoying test format rip, not sure how I feel about this

 

[mariistm]

Hey all, can anyone provide any insight on what the Mills&Reeve online test is like please? I can’t find much about it, is it like a SJT or WG, or a mix with video questions? Thanks!

 

[FutureTraineeMaybe]

did anyone else find the reed smith test and VI quite difficult😅

Could you please let me know if the questions were motivational, competency or commercial awareness based? Video interviews are really hard for me and I've failed every VI so far.
But feel free to ignore this if u don't want to 😊

 

[addy2004]

This can just start with Dear…… rather than have all the formal address format.

I would try to ensure the cover letter is 800-1000 words.

Thank you.

 

[addy2004]

Hiya @addy2004

Just adding to what was mentioned by @Jessica Booker. You definitely don't need to use the entire word count, and Jess was absolutely right to say that you should aim for 800-1000. I've seen successful applications in the lower end of that range (e.g. 850 words and some that were even 750 words). In terms of formatting, you can simply address the cover statement to the Early Careers Legal Recruitment team. Let us know if you have any other questions! Best of luck with your applications!

Thank you so much!

 

[Amma Usman]

What are some commercial awareness/understanding of law firm questions that are likely to come up in a VI?

Hey @legal18 ,

I’ve seen a trend for some of the questions below in VI’s. I’ve also been creative and included some extra questions that may possibly fall within that scope:

Commercial Awareness Questions:


1. What is a recent news story that you found interesting, and why is it relevant to our firm?

2. How do you think a recent regulation or development will impact our clients?

3. Can you explain how the current economic climate affects law firms?

4. What do you understand by commercial awareness, and why is it important for lawyers?

5. How do you stay commercially aware?

6. What trends do you foresee affecting (specific sector) in the legal industry?

7. Why might companies choose to IPO in London or the US?

8. How do the new listing rules impact law firms?


Understanding of Law Firm Questions:

1. Why have you chosen to apply to our firm?

2. What do you understand about our firm's key practice areas?

3. How do you think we differ from our competitors?

4. What challenges are law firms facing today?

5. How do law firms add value to their clients?

6. What do you think makes a successful commercial lawyer?

7. What is the role of a trainee in our firm?

8. What do you understand about the importance of billable hours and pricing models for law firms?

9. What kind of responsibilities would you like to be involved in as a trainee?

 

[Amma Usman]

will freshfields have a summer TC application window this year. I don’t want to apply to the winter one as I have deadlines

Hello @Toenails,

I am unsure on whether they have a direct TC application window for the summer, like they did last application cycle. From the looks fo their website, I am doubtful on this as the only window for these direct TC apps are between October to January. I’ve linked the below website for more information if that’ll be helpful as well.

Eight-seat trainee associate programme

Considering Freshfields' eight-seat trainee associate programme, the City Consortium Solicitor Training Programme and qualifying work experience? Take a look at the salary and benefits we offer.

www.freshfields.com

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi, I haven’t received my test result from TW yet, but if anyone has done the written task, could you provide some insight?

Hey there @Eeeazyyy8 ,

While I am not aware of the specifics of TW’s application process, I have provided below some general tips to help with written exercises.

• It’s a thin line between brevity and providing sufficient information to satisfy the needs of each question posed. On one hand, there will be some aspects you will need to touch on heavily to ensure you answer the question adequately. On the other hand, you can ignore or breeze through less relevant information. To know what is relevant or not, you will need to carefully read through the information pack and correlate it to the questions asked in the case study. To be honest, I actually spent more time reading the pack and breaking down the question, than I did answering the written task itself. This approach helped me because I knew where everything I needed was, and I wasn’t constantly overwhelmed switching through pages. I was then able to pour out all these relevant details quickly onto my exercise. Thus, my personal view is: slow assimilation = speedy execution.

• You should be able to know whether to be more commercial, or legal in your exercise. This will become apparent when you see the question itself. For many cases though, law firms will understand that many will have non-legal backgrounds, so taking a heavy commercial-based approach is good. Again, this depends on the question itself and whether you think you can make a solid answer by incorporating legal discussions too. Of course if asked to discuss legal implications, ensure you cover this. It’s actually funny because I have received mixed feedback on this approach. Some firms wanted me to discuss more commercial aspects, whilst some other firms wanted me to touch on legal aspects more. Interestingly, the largely transactional firms wanted a more commercial-based approach. Looking back, I now understand the feedback because I didn’t read the question properly. As most of these written exercises were on corporate topics, certainly a more business-based discussion should be taken. Hence, this is why I am heavy on reading the question properly. From my experience, you will not get extra marks for going on talking about what you were not asked to. Law firms work on tight schedules and if you don’t listen to the instructions you are given, you spend time on non-value tasks. This is time that could’ve been spent contributing to wider departmental efforts.

• Lastly, ensure to structure it properly based on what you were asked. Memo? Email? Have you used the proper formalities? A nice array of paragraphs will also ensure it‘s easy for your reader to follow your work. If you can also address each question on a separate line, that contributes too structure too.

 

[InterestInPublicLaw]

Sorry to hear that! Was this the Spring or Summer VS?

Thank you! It's Spring

 

[Amma Usman]

did anyone else find the reed smith test and VI quite difficult😅

Hi there @hfbjsdhfbhf , I completely understand that feeling. I believe I can offer some advice. This applies to all areas of life, not just tackling the law firm application process.

I was actually speaking earlier today to someone I really look up to (and for good reasons as you will soon see) on this same subject - tackling new and different things. “Difficulties happen to everyone. It is something you will encounter on the pursuit of growth. But… you can’t let it win. You should aim to evaluate where the problem is and tackle it from there. The sooner you do this, the better. Because at the end of the day, the goal is to eliminate the pressure, not to defer the pressure.”

 

[Defnefresko]

Just received a Bird & Bird AC invite

Any tips (from last recruitment cycles?) would be highly appreciated can offer A&O AC insights

When did you do the VI?

 

[Amma Usman]

Do McDermott take non law graduates? I’m slightly frustrated by the process. I’ve already done three Vacation Schemes. Direct TCs do feel quite rare. Few hiring a majority through those. Might multiple VSs hurt VS applications? It’s just frustrating in some ways. I don’t think being 27 hurts. So that’s something positive, I guess.

Then there is obviously another question. How do you get direct TCs? What do you have to prove? Especially for the US law firms.

It’s been a rough week, tbh. Struggling to get out of bed. Writing 30 applications was certainly energising. This current stage not so much. I got Milbank VS in 2019. It clashed with another firm’s VS. So I regret not doing it. I also regret not converting Ropes. These two things greatly depress me.

Hey @Tintin06 ,

I can completely understand your frustration, and I want to acknowledge how much effort and dedication you've already put into the process. Having completed three vacation schemes, you're in a strong position to apply for direct TCs. As you mentioned, the viability of this route differs between firms. Many firms, particularly US ones from what I’ve seen, hire a significant proportion of their trainees from vacation schemes. This isn't a reflection of your ability as a candidate but rather an operational preference for firms to prioritise their vacation scheme pipeline. I’ve linked @Ram Sabaratnam ’s thread on this topic to help you decipher which direct TC apps to prioritise based off how much these firms tend to take in per cycle.

Regarding multiple VSs potentially affecting future applications, I don’t think it’s necessarily a negative. Instead, I’d suggest framing them as a testament to your adaptability and commitment to exploring different firms and practice areas.

As for direct TCs, it’s often about proving that you’ve gained enough insight into law firms and their practice areas to hit the ground running. Highlight how your experiences across VSs have prepared you to contribute to the firm’s specific needs. All law firms particularly value commercial awareness and a clear understanding of their distinctive culture and business model.

It sounds like it’s been a tough week, and I’m really sorry to hear that. It’s okay to feel this way - this process can be exhausting and overwhelming. Regret is a natural feeling that everyone encounters, but I think you should look at the Milbank offer from a positive light. You were able to secure 4 vac scheme offers once, so I have absolutely no doubt that you are more than capable to do this again! It’s important to remember that every step you’ve taken has contributed to where you are now. Those experiences have shaped your journey, and you’re far more prepared now than you were back then.

This stage of the process may feel draining, but it’s clear you’re resilient and capable of achieving your goals. You’ve got this - one step at a time!!! 🚀

 

[Amma Usman]

Hey @legal18 ,

I’ve seen a trend for some of the questions below in VI’s. I’ve also been creative and included some extra questions that may possibly fall within that scope:

Commercial Awareness Questions:


1. What is a recent news story that you found interesting, and why is it relevant to our firm?

2. How do you think a recent regulation or development will impact our clients?

3. Can you explain how the current economic climate affects law firms?

4. What do you understand by commercial awareness, and why is it important for lawyers?

5. How do you stay commercially aware?

6. What trends do you foresee affecting (specific sector) in the legal industry?

7. Why might companies choose to IPO in London or the US?

8. How do the new listing rules impact law firms?


Understanding of Law Firm Questions:

1. Why have you chosen to apply to our firm?

2. What do you understand about our firm's key practice areas?

3. How do you think we differ from our competitors?

4. What challenges are law firms facing today?

5. How do law firms add value to their clients?

6. What do you think makes a successful commercial lawyer?

7. What is the role of a trainee in our firm?

8. What do you understand about the importance of billable hours and pricing models for law firms?

9. What kind of responsibilities would you like to be involved in as a trainee?

Hey @legal18 , I’ve also linked @Andrei Radu ’s guide to succeeding in VIs below;

A complete guide for competency interview preparation

This is a guide for the purposes of preparing for competency interviews, be they in a VI, another intermediary step or an AC/final stage interview. The advice here is based on my personal approach, as I received VS offers from top US/MC firms 4/4 times I implemented it. This will include: A...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

 

[Amma Usman]

When did you do the VI?

Hey there @Defnefresko , as your question also centres round VIs, I’ve linked the guide below as well to help;

A complete guide for competency interview preparation

This is a guide for the purposes of preparing for competency interviews, be they in a VI, another intermediary step or an AC/final stage interview. The advice here is based on my personal approach, as I received VS offers from top US/MC firms 4/4 times I implemented it. This will include: A...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

 

[Amma Usman]

For DWF application it has a question about one of their values and the question is as follows. The DWF value 'Be Better Together' is key to our business. Please identify when you have demonstrated this value and how you would apply this to the role of a Trainee Solicitor.

My question is would it be OK to talk about one example or should I mention two examples of demonstrating this value.

For this question, I would personally focus on just one example. This will ensure that you are able to use STAR adequately and leave no stone untouched. Although, bear in mind this depends in the word count: if less than 300 words, then I recommend using only one example.

As the value is also be better together, I presume you will need to talk about an example where you’ve demonstrate teamwork. I’ve quoted below a post I made on this in the past. The subject matter is different, but it should provide more guidance on how to apply STAR in the spec of law firm applications.


“

• Situation: Start by describing a personal experience or challenge you've faced. This could be anything from adapting to a new culture, overcoming adversity, or leading an initiative. It’s important to show how it gave you a fresh perspective.
• Task: What responsibility or role did you take on in that situation? For example, did you take the lead on a project, support others, or push for change in some way?
• Action: Then, explain what specific steps you took to address the situation or make the most of it. How did you tackle the challenge or make an impact?
• Result: Finally, wrap up by explaining the outcome. What did you learn from the experience, and how did it shape you? Can you quantify it? Any feedback you got that was positive? Connect this back to how it will help you succeed on the Insight Scheme.

“

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi everyone,

I wanted to come up before the year ends to say a few things. I will use this quote to aid me….“Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery, and Today is the Present”. I’m sure you’ve probably heard it multiple times as a child. I randomly remembered it on a morning walk the other day!

The journey of applying to law firms is anything but linear. It’s filled with highs, lows, and lessons. I want to break down this timeless quote and reflect on how it applies to the application process:


1. Yesterday is History

Rejections, setbacks, or even the occasional cringe-worthy mistake in an application are part of the process, but they do not define you. That rejection email you received? It’s already in the past. Learn from it, but don’t carry it as baggage into your next opportunity. Your previous experiences, good or bad, have helped you grow and prepare for the successes that await.


2. Tomorrow is a Mystery

It’s easy to stress about what’s ahead: Will you get the vacation scheme? Will the firm like your interview performance? These are valid concerns, but don’t let them consume you. The future is beyond your immediate control, so focus on what you can do today. Lay the groundwork without worrying excessively about outcomes. After all, every small effort adds up to bigger results over time.


3. Today is the Present

The application process can feel overwhelming, but don’t let it rob you of enjoying the moment. Want to read an article to sharpen your commercial awareness? Go for it - it’s a small step toward your future success. Want to spend time with friends or indulge in a hobby? Do that too, because life is about balance. Being well-rounded not only makes you a better applicant but also a happier person.


Remember, the application process is just one chapter of your story. Embrace every moment, knowing that your efforts today, big or small, are shaping a future filled with promise.

 

[Toenails]

Hello @Toenails,

I am unsure on whether they have a direct TC application window for the summer, like they did last application cycle. From the looks fo their website, I am doubtful on this as the only window for these direct TC apps are between October to January. I’ve linked the below website for more information if that’ll be helpful as well.

Eight-seat trainee associate programme

Considering Freshfields' eight-seat trainee associate programme, the City Consortium Solicitor Training Programme and qualifying work experience? Take a look at the salary and benefits we offer.

www.freshfields.com

thank you this is very helpful

 

[Toenails]

i wanted to ask how regulated this site was, i am new to it all so not familiar with who the staff are only Jessica. are we not allowed to make jokes or speak about other things i noticed all the funny messages yesterday were deleted which i found light hearted and was nice to make others laugh during a stressful period. we are all adults some older than others are we not allowed to make jokes. I want to be respectful of the environment already created so I’m not upsetting others. thank you

 

[Andrei Radu]

Any tips on AC group exercise would be greatly appreciated please!!

Hi @member3804 I think to have a great AC group exercise performance, you need (1) to ensure you show the desired interpersonal traits like collaboration and leadership; and (2) you want to ensure you showcase the desired substantial commercial/legal analysis and negotiation skills, which necessitates taking up a sufficient portion of the airtime. Since everyone will want to speak enough to impress, there is a natural tension between the friendly and group-outcome oriented attitude required to excel at (1) and the individual performance focus in a competitive environment required to excel at (2). You will therefore need to walk a fine line to have an overall great performance.

While the way you should go about it will heavily depend on the format of the assessment, details of the exercise, and the strategies of the other participants, I have a few tips based on my own experience:

• Offer to keep the time: this shows a proactive attitude while not being very demanding as to your mental focus. It also enables you to (i) avoid taking the responsibility of any required writing, which is more demanding; and (ii) naturally intervene at certain points in the discussion to mention time considerations, which is also an opportunity for you to add substantive points.
• Try to introduce structure and organization: instead of simply throwing yourself in discussing substantive points, try to introduce a framework: what points will you discuss, in what order, how much time will you spend on each, and what relevant assessment criteria should you keep in mind when analyzing the points?
• Focus on finding more niche/less-obvious analysis points: as you are given a brief for the group exercise task, you will normally have a bit of preparation time during which you can think what points to bring up. You will find some points that are really intuitive which you will know the others likely also thought of. Instead of focusing on those and fighting with everyone to get to express those obvious points, I would use that time (and the extra thinking time in the initial discussion phase when everyone is fighting to say the obvious points) to find relevant ideas that others may have missed. The, as the discussion is winding down on that subpart of the task, I would mention these more niche points. This will avoid making you seem competitive and also showcase ability for more nuanced analysis.
• Focus on synthesis and weighing: another similar strategy for impressive contribution which may not require too much fighting over airtime is to once again seek to contribute as the discussion on the substantive points is winding down. What you can do here is intervene to summarize what everyone has contributed, weigh their points, and then make an informed argument as to what the decision should be.