I’m a non-law final year student and hoping, in an ideal world, to get a vac scheme and then a training contract by the end of my final year to start the gdl next September.
Is it worth me applying to open days for firms who view on a rolling basis if I already know a lot about the firm? I’m worried about delaying application until after the open day if they specifically advise getting the application in early.
Also, is the competition for winter/spring/summer vacation schemes relatively similar, or are there less competitive times to go for as a final year student? I can’t do a winter one as I wouldn’t be able to get the time off my part time job so I’m wondering if a spring one would be the best to go for?
Hi!
Yes, I'd say it is definitely worth applying if you already know a lot about the firm. Open days can be a great way of learning more about the firm before making an application (and I would advise you go to a few in the cycle), but they are definitely not a requirement - I didn't attend an open day at any of the firms I completed a VS or secured my TC with. The most important part is submitting a tailored and well-researched application - if you feel you can do that without attending the open day, I would apply early if that is what's advised
The competition is relatively similar across winter / spring / summer, although if any is viewed as more competitive, I would say it's winter schemes. I think your plan of applying for spring / summer schemes is great - I did three schemes last year, all across spring / summer, so there will be plenty of opportunity for you to apply to multiple firms. It also gives you plenty of time to refine your commercial awareness and application writing strategy
Best of luck with the applications!
