Dear all,
I have just been notified that I have failed converting a spring vacation scheme into a training contract. I feel quite lost particularly since I am a final year international student...
I also wonder whether my vacation scheme experience will be a good asset for future applications I am extremely anxious of getting questioned 'explain why you failed'.
I would appreciate any comments. Thank you so much.
I am so sorry to hear that you didn't get offered the job - also, that you are using the word 'failed' about yourself. This definitely needs reframing.
Firstly, the firm failed to offer you a TC at the end of the VS, you didn't 'fail' to 'convert' IMHO.
Secondly, the VS is a terrific asset. They are so difficult to get. Thousands apply and after that, the 'conversion rate' is still only about 50%. The firm should give you feedback, which will help you to reflect. But it won't be a complete answer as to why they didn't take you on permanently, so don't expect total clarity on that. However, no one can take away the fact that you succeeded in a really tough competition to get to the VS itself. It shows that you are nearly there.
I've been asked what my feedback was but never asked why I 'failed' to be given a TC. Which would be humiliating, so if anyone were to ask, that would only demonstrate their toxicity and insensitivity, so you wouldn't want to work for them anyway. (If family members tactlessly use that sort of terminology you might need to remind them that the legal industry is complex and nuanced in a way that is difficult for those not involved to understand.)
Thirdly, you will probably be a far better lawyer for getting some experience in another field, or as a paralegal. You can worry about that after Finals.
Regarding your status as an international student, I've seen a few threads on here with advice on the technical side of things re visas etc. That of course complicates things a little but you can work this out. I would think you can find the threads from the search bar.
Fourthly, there will still be some direct applications open after your Finals are out of the way. Perhaps you were at the webinar about this a few weeks ago? If you are a premium member, it's online. If that's your goal then there are options left this cycle and now you have another addition for your 'work experience' section.
Finally, I came across this slightly leftfield but very helpful video this morning about job rejection in general (if you prefer the legal bloggers, they've ALL covered rejection....)
Congratulations on completing a VS!