TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Jessica Booker]

For the freshfields application since we have a CV do we still need to fill out the work experience section on the vantage form? I feel like I'm just repeating myself but then idk if thats what they want, anyone know?

The CV is not compulsory - I would definitely include the work experience section as it’s likely your CV won’t be read.

 

[lawstudent2]

The CV is not compulsory - I would definitely include the work experience section as it’s likely your CV won’t be read.

Thank you that's really helpful

 

[3000to1shoteverytime]

Don't be discouraged or think you're not good enough! Just take it easy and keep applying. For some reassurance, check this out: https://www.chambersstudent.co.uk/where-to-start/newsletter/law-firms-preferred-universities

While it might seem that non-Russell Group universities represent a smaller percentage, this doesn't mean anything negative! First, many firms aren't exclusively picking from the very top universities like KCL, UCL, or Oxbridge. Instead, they're often recruiting from places like Manchester, Leeds, and York.

JUST TO CLARIFY: I’m NOT saying these universities are bad—far from it! What I mean is that law firms aren't always focused solely on the so-called "top" universities; your university is NOT a dealbreaker guaranteeing you a spot! The higher percentage of Russell Group representation simply reflects the larger number of applicants from those universities. Comparatively, there are fewer applicants from non-RG universities, which naturally affects the percentages. For instance, for Magic Circle firms, LSE, KCL and UCL are in 7th, 8th and 9th place, being surpassed by unis like Bristol, Nottingham, etc... So don't be discouraged, keep applying, and you will make it!! We're all in the same boat with you 🙏

There is a more up to date Chambers Preferred List. You have linked 2016. The latest is 2019.

Law firms' preferred universities 2019 - Chambers Student Guide

The student’s guide to careers in the law. Gives the truth about law firms and the Bar. Based on thousands of interviews with trainees, pupils and market sources, this site offers the full package of careers advice to anyone entering the legal profession.

www.chambersstudent.co.uk

 

[suhana]

@Jessica Booker

Hey Jessica, for Freshfields' personal statement, would you recommend including a closing remark, such as 'I am grateful for your consideration of my application,' or something similar? I am running out of words so just wanted to confirm

 

[Amiyrerose]

Kennedys VI!!!! So so happy 🥳

SAME !!

 

[legaldruid]

Hey guys, has anyone heard back from the following firms?

DWF
Mills & Reeve
Penningtons Manches Cooper
Trowers & Hamlins
Reed Smith
Addleshaw Goddard
TLT

 

[g.cl.2020344]

Hey guys, has anyone heard back from the following firms?

DWF
Mills & Reeve
Penningtons Manches Cooper
Trowers & Hamlins
Reed Smith
Addleshaw Goddard
TLT

Heya, haven’t heard from DWF or Mills& Reeve, but did the assessment at AG

 

[fcac98]

Does anyone know anyone who has successfully received a TC offer without previously applying for VS? Reluctant to apply for direct TC's without previous VS experience.

 

[legaldruid]

Heya, haven’t heard from DWF or Mills& Reeve, but did the assessment at AG

I believe the test for AG is automatic. I did mine as well but no word since then. Its probably too early to ask but I'm stressed out of my mind hahaha!

 

[EA95]

Hi guys, I wanted to ask if I were to apply for a direct TC with freshfields, and was unsuccessful with my attempt, would that rule me out of applying for their winter vacation scheme programme? The applications for that programme open during the summer/fall I believe.

 

[studenttolawyer]

I found it dreadful honestly.

truthfully, i'm glad i'm not the only one feeling that! there was just a lot to do.

 

[studenttolawyer]

Hey guys, has anyone heard back from the following firms?

DWF
Mills & Reeve
Penningtons Manches Cooper
Trowers & Hamlins
Reed Smith
Addleshaw Goddard
TLT

Trowers just closed applications for both VS and TC on Monday at 11:59 pm. They're probably just starting to look at them as they're recruiting on a non-rolling basis.

 

[cjwx]

truthfully, i'm glad i'm not the only one feeling that! there was just a lot to do.

Do you think they monitor how long the assessment took for us to do? If so I am done for.

 

[studenttolawyer]

Do you think they monitor how long the assessment took for us to do? If so I am done for.

I was thinking about that, because I also took a lot of time to complete it. Especially after an hour and a half my brain became mush. I misread the questions several times and couldn't come up with a correct answer to choose in an MCQ. Hopefully they don't look at the time as they mention that the assessment is untimed, thus we can take breaks and stuff. We'll see I guess.

 

[mulan0]

truthfully, i'm glad i'm not the only one feeling that! there was just a lot to do.

Hey I’m yet to do it was it like scenario questions?

 

[studenttolawyer]

Hey I’m yet to do it was it like scenario questions?

It contained strengths-based (as in, your personality assessment), verbal, numerical, and WG elements. They sent a link to practice it in an email, so I would recommend you to do it first, as it provides a nice overview of what the assessment looks like.

 

[legaldruid]

LinkedIn is soul-destroying for older applicants. I don't know why I bother. I guess it's by design etc. Otherwise you wouldn't buy LinkedIn premium. I use it for my work. But yes, it's utterly crushing honestly. People younger than me with TCs. Sorry but it's just the truth. I wish I was years younger. Sure, I'm married with a flat. But still, no stable job yet. Years of applications - no Training Contract. All these VSs and for what? This cycle is worse than 2023-24. This isn't a cry for help. Just setting out how I feel. How long can I do this? I don't know - it's catch 22. Applying is bad for mental health. Don't apply and you get FOMO. It's just a terrible cycle, honestly.

Anyway, a question about Stephenson Harwood. Do they take mostly from TCs. Or is it through Vac Schemes?

Honestly, I'm in the same boat as you but we keep pushing forward! Best not to compare yourself to anyone but yourself. Even if your progress is just inches over last year, its still progress and it will get you across one day!

I'm happy to have a chat - it always helps!

 

[legaldruid]

Trowers just closed applications for both VS and TC on Monday at 11:59 pm. They're probably just starting to look at them as they're recruiting on a non-rolling basis.

That's good to know! It'll hold off the PFO thoughts for a month or two 😂

 

[legaldruid]

I was thinking about that, because I also took a lot of time to complete it. Especially after an hour and a half my brain became mush. I misread the questions several times and couldn't come up with a correct answer to choose in an MCQ. Hopefully they don't look at the time as they mention that the assessment is untimed, thus we can take breaks and stuff. We'll see I guess.

Yeah I wouldn't worry too much about taking longer on the test. I don't imagine many finishing it in quickly because that would compromise on the quality of the answers picked. I think a red flag would be if the test took 4-5 hours or longer to complete but this is just me guessing.

 

[pepsicola96]

anyone still not received NRF assessment, I did the rare form days ago.