Probably not the space for a rant but needed to get off my chest. I'm in my final year of university and had a vacation scheme over summer at a firm with a usually high conversion, but I didn't get a training contract offer (nor did most on my scheme, not sure if we just weren't a strong cohort or they weren't taking as many?). I worked so hard on my applications last year to avoid being in the position of applying to firms during my final year, yet unfortunately here I am anyway. Now I also worry that having the scheme on my CV but having not converted it might be a bit of a red flag to other firms, especially because as I mentioned this firm usually has a high conversion rate.
I can't stand the waiting game. I have applied to many firms but have only got 2 responses (rejections :/ ) from 2. This week has been difficult, I'm struggling to focus on my university work because I just keep refreshing my emails and portals, falling into rabbit holes of different career paths, Masters degrees etc. My friends all know their plans next year, and I'm beginning to feel left behind and demotivated. I know this is building my resilience and everyone gets rejected at some point etc... but I'm just struggling to juggle everything. Apologies for the rant but just couldn't keep it in any longer and hope this makes others feel less alone if they are in a similar place.
Hey
@powerpuffgirl,
I am so sorry to read how you feel and the process of applying to law firms' vacation schemes and training contract is so tedious sometimes. I genuinely feel like it is so difficult to maintain your motivation throughout this process. Additionally, I also see how comparison is causing even more damage to oneself when it comes to this process.
Your feelings are valid and I am sure that many feel the same way, however, I personally believe that it is extremely important to remember that you are not on your own. Many went through this process and many struggled to get where they want to go. During my application cycle last year, I have met incredibly smart individuals (and way better commercially prepared individuals than me) who were applying to vacation schemes and it was their fifth or sixth time, whilst I was applying for the first time. These people, despite the many rejections, were extremely passionate about the profession and had many goals and dreams that they were still fighting for.
I found meeting these people extremely inspiring and motivating as it allowed me to keep applying despite the many rejections I was receiving. I understand that it is extremely difficult to keep applying and seeing only rejections, but I personally started seeing good results after my 10th application last year so I always encourage everyone to keep applying, have faith in the process and learn from your mistakes during the process.
You should celebrate the fact that you had the chance to experience what it is like to work in a law firm in your vacation scheme, unfortunately, not everyone is able to do that, so you have an advantage. And I do not think that not converting a vacation scheme will be detrimental to your success this year. I met many candidates with 4 or more vacation schemes that they did not manage to convert and they were successful the following years. The sector knows it is difficult to get an offer even when you secure a vacation scheme so nobody will judge you for that.
I really hope I was able to give you a little bit of motivation and keep applying and believing in yourself because you are meant to achieve your dreams!
Good luck with the cycle!