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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

ilovegardening1111

Star Member
Premium Member
Nov 12, 2024
35
8
I think your primary focus should be on why you want to be a solicitor - so make sure to show (i) why do you want to work in the legal field - what interests you about law?; (ii) why do you want to be a legal practitioner, as opposed to, say, an academic?; and (iii) why do you want to be a solicitor rather than a barrister?;

Nonetheless, I think it is desirable to go beyond this and also include the commercial element. You can do this directly, as in a normal why commercial law answer, or indirectly. For instance, if you discuss the client-facing nature of the solicitor's job, you could explain how you are particularly motivated to work with businesses and help them with their growth. However, you should first ensure that the primary "why solicitor" element of your answer is properly addressed, and only then move on to consider how you can make it better by adding the commercial part.
Hi Andrei, thanks so much for your advice!
 
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ilovegardening1111

Star Member
Premium Member
Nov 12, 2024
35
8
Does anyone have any tips on how to prepare for the Stephenson Harwood amberjack SJT assessment? I tried to access their practice test which they provide on their website but it won't load for me - not sure if it's worth me sending a message about it to their grad recruitment team.. but would really appreciate any advice! :) on blended assessments / VIs in general
 

CHLTC

Well-Known Member
Nov 28, 2023
22
35
Hello all,

I had a general question to ask regarding the idea of self funding the SQE. I already have my GDL.

This will be my fourth round of applying to VS/TCs, next year my 5th, and im coming to a point now where 1) I’m wondering it this is all worth it. And 2) whether I should go ahead and complete my SQE.

I have always feared that self funding the SQE shows 2 negative things:
1) you are in a fortunate position to do so. One that others do not have. And I’m afraid it could demonstrate a certain privilege. A privilege that firms may take badly.
2) if you’re self funding, then clearly, no one wanted to fund you. Maybe a slightly negative outlook on things, but I could see law firms thinking this. “Hmm, no one wanted to pay for this person's SQE, so maybe this candidate isn’t great?”

I’d love to know what people think. I’m really considering now moving on and funding it myself. I don’t think re applying might do me any good at this point.

@Jaysen
@Jessica Booker
 

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