ABC A Levels, Upper 2:1 Undergrad Non RG - vac scheme applications?

[Optimistic1111]

Hi all, I wanted to ask whether you think it's possible that I could break into a US/MC/SC Law firm in London?

I graduated with A Levels (ABC), upper 2:1 from a Non RG Uni and 3 years Paralegal experience in Property Law
Currently I am finishing the LPC & completing an LLM at a RG uni. I have started to apply for vac schemes with Allen & Overy, Baker McKenzie, Linklakers etc. I am applying to these areas specifically because I want to focus on corporate law.
My concern is that my undergraduate isn't from a RG uni and so firms won't consider me.

I grew up in foster care and come from a low socio-economic background, being the first in my family to graduate university. I also had to work a part time job with full time hours throughout my a levels and university to support myself. Unfortunately I broke my back during university also so that delayed me completing by 2 years. I have explained these circumstances on my applications but not sure it will make a difference.

Is it likely that I would be considered given my background?

 

[Jessica Booker]

Your circumstances will make a difference. You should look for firms that use contextualised recruitment platforms as your circumstances would effectively balance out your A-level grades through that system.

It’s hard to say it’s “likely” but that is the same for most applicants. But there is no reason why you couldn’t secure a vacation scheme or training contract. I have seen plenty of NRG candidates with similar Alevel grades achieve it to know it’s possible.

 

[yasmars]

Hey! It’s definitely possible. I was progressed to the next stage of a law firm who required AAB and I only have ABC, without extenuating circumstances.

 

[Optimistic1111]

Your circumstances will make a difference. You should look for firms that use contextualised recruitment platforms as your circumstances would effectively balance out your A-level grades through that system.

It’s hard to say it’s “likely” but that is the same for most applicants. But there is no reason why you couldn’t secure a vacation scheme or training contract. I have seen plenty of NRG candidates with similar Alevel grades achieve it to know it’s possible.

Hi Jessica, thank you for your response.

Yea, I am going to look at firms that really push or support diversity in the firm. Fingers crossed!

 

[Optimistic1111]

Hey! It’s definitely possible. I was progressed to the next stage of a law firm who required AAB and I only have ABC, without extenuating circumstances.

Hey Yasmars! That's fantastic, congratulations! Did you also go to a Non RG university and is it MC/SC/US?

 

[yasmars]

Hey Yasmars! That's fantastic, congratulations! Did you also go to a Non RG university and is it MC/SC/US?

Yes, I also attended a non-RG. The firm is Taylor Wessing . I do however think I have quite strong work experience which may have offset my weaker grades

 

[Optimistic1111]

Yes, I also attended a non-RG. The firm is Taylor Wessing . I do however think I have quite strong work experience which may have offset my weaker grades

Ahh this is inspiring to read! I have about 3 years of experience in Property Law at firms ranging from high street to a mid sized law firm throughout the UK. Hopefully this helps to show I have some transferrable skills and just need exposure to practice areas that I am interested in I am also a bit older than most applying for these vac schemes. I will be 29 by the summer if I am accepted onto one so I hope it doesn't dissuade the firms either.

 

[yasmars]

Ahh this is inspiring to read! I have about 3 years of experience in Property Law at firms ranging from high street to a mid sized law firm throughout the UK. Hopefully this helps to show I have some transferrable skills and just need exposure to practice areas that I am interested in I am also a bit older than most applying for these vac schemes. I will be 29 by the summer if I am accepted onto one so I hope it doesn't dissuade the firms either.

That experience is perfect especially if you'd want to go into apply to firms with strong real estate practices! Also, don't let your age discourage you. It definiately will not be an issue.