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[ashwright]

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[Jessica Booker]

Think it’s reasonable to aim for MC/SC firms as it will be clear your mitigating circumstances led to a blip in performance, and where other things are looking good. You may want to apply for some open days/insight programmes or potentially do 1-2 Forage programmes (or something similar) where you can before VS to build up some more “pursuit of the career” evidence.

 

[Jessica Booker]

Amazing! Thank you so much. I’ve had very low self-confidence for the past few years so I find your response very reassuring.

As I am still very much learning the ropes vis-à-vis the process, may I check when open days are usually open for applications? I attended lots of virtual discussions with firms last year so will make sure to do that when they open up again (which I assume will be in Aug/Sept?).

And as a follow-up - would it be okay for me to go for the winter vac scheme apps (at least for the firms that offer them)? I understand direct TCs are not the right path for me so just wanted to make sure I understand which VS season to prioritise.

Thank you!

There will be some firms you should apply to winter schemes for. Others will be Spring or Summer depending on their eligibility criteria.

Open days and Insight programmes are likely to open in the next 6 weeks or so (possibly slightly later in September when unis are back). Whether its formal open days or careers events, it doesn't really matter, its just a good way to engage with firms before VS or TC applications (if you can).

 

[Jessica Booker]

Apologies, I have a quick follow-up which I forgot to add earlier. Would US/international etc. firms (e.g., Baker McKenzie, Latham & Watkins, W&C) be better/worse for me to apply for? I really like them but am just a bit pessimistic about my chances..

I would try to network with the firms you are interested in to get an accurate view on this. You can do this by networking with the firms at career events or by connecting with trainees via LinkedIn.

Different firms have different views on this, so its not possible to categorise them just by international firms.