A little disheartened and really want to give up...

[jobhuntwarrior]

Hi all, just wanted to come on and get some advice on what I should do (and vent just a little)...

My background: I came to the UK as an international student to study law with a russell group uni, graduated with first class results in September 2022. I have been applying to vac schemes and training contracts since my second year of uni and have never succeeded in getting into AC. The furthest I have gonee is a video interview with Baker McKenzie.

I was unemployed for a year following graduation. Understandably, the UK was in a recession at the time and economy probably played a part. At the time I was still applying for VS and TCs, as well as FT paralegal position. For that whole year I only got rejections, and I figured that in part I got those rejections because employers were unable to sponsor a working visa which I required at the time. It has taken a toll on my mental health and at the same time a close family had passed away which really hit me hard.

I finally got my first paralegal job in June 2023, and at this point I have stopped applying for any VS and TCs. I thought I would just work a little while and step back from applying for TCs to let myself get a breather.

Then I switched to a better job in December 2023, and have been paralegaling with my firm for a year now. I have since only applied to my firm's TC and have been offered an AC in March this year. At the time it was not confirmed when the AC would be as the date was not set. After 7 months, only earlier this week, I was told the AC will not be going ahead until further notice in 2025, as the firm has suddenly decided not to fund trainings this financial year etc.

Now I am left a little disheartened because I thought I was so close to getting that TC, and it's like all that hope and chance of getting that TC is gone. I have to reapply to other firms and wait for another couple years before I can train and qualify.

I am now back to square one of considering my next steps and reapplying to firms. I have only done this one TC application with my firm since June 2023 and I feel so rusty. I have had a look at most firm's websites and they are recruiting for trainees 3 years in advance (to start in 2027)?! When has it gone this wild? I remember it used to be 2 years in advance a few years ago when I was still in my final year of uni...I work FT right now and job applications a weekend job. It's difficult to get much done during the weekdays.

I am turning 24 in 3 months and I just feel so disheartened that I have gone this far to do everything I can but also it is so difficult to get a TC. I really want to give up because I really can't see an end to this application marathon. But also I don't know what other careers I can go into because I realise a law degree really isn't that transferrable to other industries (ie. many business roles would want candidates to have studied business for example).

I have not done my LPC/SQE yet so I am planning to self-fund it to start in September 2025, if I cant get a TC this application cycle. But even with that, finishing a LPC/SQE does not guarantee a TC and I still may not be able to train until after 2027/2028. By the time I start training and get qualified, I would be at least 26/27 to start and 28/29 to qualify. My partner and I would want to start a family by then and I feel that I would be putting life plans on hold because my career plans are not moving forward.

At this point I feel extremely discouraged and I dont know what I can do. All my friends from uni have progressed with starting a TC with big london firms, earning big bucks and almost qualifying. Meanwhile I am just a lost sheep roaming around not sure of what to do. Why were they able to get a TC and not me?

If i self-fund a LPC/SQE, which one should I do? So many people have told me the LPC gives you more practical knowledge of the law profession than the SQE, and from my research I know the LPC has much better pass rate than the SQE. ULaw is also no longer offering LPC at many branches (only limited to London and up North, which I don't want to be at as the former is expensive and I've never been up north).

I would really appreciate any advice, thoughts etc from anyone in similar positions or have gone through the same.

Sighs.

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi @jobhuntwarrior ,

Thank you for sharing your story so openly and honestly. The law firm application process can feel like an endless journey, and it’s perfectly understandable to feel disheartened at times. Your persistence and resilience in the face of difficulties are truly inspiring, and I hope that my own experience and insights can bring some encouragement and guidance.


I know from personal experience that setbacks, especially during challenging times, can be overwhelming. I also lost a close family member just three months before the application season began, and I remember how emotionally and mentally taxing that period was. Looking back, one of the most valuable things I did was to step back and allow myself some time to breathe. Sometimes, taking a break from applications gives you the space to focus on your well-being and regain your energy, ultimately helping you approach the process with a clearer and more positive mindset. If you can, I’d suggest taking some time away from applications when you need it, allowing yourself a chance to recharge. In doing so, you can approach each new application with more focus and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the many tasks at hand.


As for the journey itself, it’s clear you’ve achieved so much already. Your background in paralegal work is incredibly valuable, and firms recognize the depth of skill and experience it represents. Paralegal roles hone essential abilities like drafting, client interaction, document management, and time management—all things that will set you apart from other candidates. Your achievement in reaching the video interview at Baker McKenzie is no small feat; it shows that you’re very much on the right path. Progress like this is a sign that you’re aligning with what firms want, so keep believing in yourself and what you have to offer.


You’ve likely heard this, but the law firm application process is rarely straightforward. It’s filled with setbacks and rejections, but these don’t define you or your ability to succeed in the legal profession. Many successful lawyers have faced similar roadblocks along the way, and each challenge has strengthened their resolve and honed their skills. Remember, every setback is an opportunity for growth, even if it doesn’t feel like it in the moment.


Here are a few suggestions to help you refine your application strategy:


1. Consider Your Preferred Practice Areas: Take a moment to reflect on which aspects of law resonate with you most—are you more drawn to transactional work, where you can see deals come together? Or are you interested in contentious work, where you can advocate for clients and navigate complex legal disputes? Understanding which side of law practice you’re drawn to can help you target firms that have strong reputations in those specific areas. I have also linked here @Andrei Radu ’s really helpful guide on applications.


2. Highlight the Value of Your Paralegal Experience: Your paralegal work gives you a unique perspective and shows your commitment to the profession. Emphasize how these experiences have strengthened your technical skills and deepened your understanding of client needs. For example, if you’ve been involved in client interactions or document review, explain how these have prepared you for the responsibilities of a trainee solicitor.


3. Network and Seek Mentorship: Having support and insight from those who have navigated this path before can be invaluable. Consider reaching out to mentors or peers within firms of interest. Attending webinars, open days, or LinkedIn networking sessions can also help you broaden your connections within the industry and gain fresh perspectives.


4. LPC vs. SQE: I have tagged @Jessica Booker here, as she will have more thoughts on this.


5. Remember that Growth Isn’t Always Visible Right Away: Remind yourself that even though the path isn’t easy, each step you take is building a foundation for your success.


Your determination and experience make you a strong candidate, and your journey is far from over. Keep pushing forward, and trust in the skills and resilience you’ve developed.


Sending all the best as you take your next steps!