Got BBC at A-Level, and I am enrolled to study History and Philosophy at a RG uni, how should I navigate my first year? I am considering resitting my A-Levels in Jan, but in the meanwhile, I have been applying to first year schemes in finance(PE) and law. I know my chances aren't good, but how can I increase my chances to securing a TC? I am sure I can turn the C to a B, and I can turn the B to an A (it was a close miss). I can lay off extracurriculars for the first few months and join later? But is there something else I can do?
Hi
@aryashinde
I just wanted to say that your proactivity when it comes to applying to first year schemes is very impressive – you are definitely on the right track!
I also wanted to emphasise that firms are increasingly less focused on A-levels, so you definitely have a decent chance with your current A-level results:
- Some firms no longer have minimum A-level requirements (there was a thread on this topic
here): while these firms might take your A-level results into account (some firms like
BCLP don't even consider them at all), they will be considered alongside other elements of your application
- Even if a firm you like has A-level requirements, it is still worth applying if you have mitigating circumstances (do make sure to include those in your application, and I would recommend that you keep the description concise, professional and objective).
To increase your chances of securing a TC, I would recommend that you:
- Make the most of your university careers service, Law Society (as a non-law student, I found my Law Society particularly useful to learn more about the industry and connect with peers in the same situation), law fairs, and apply to Open Days (through your university, organisations such as Aspiring Solicitors or directly with law firms): this will allow you to gain a better understanding of commercial law, the role of a trainee solicitor and differences between law firms. That way, you will be able to convey your motivations more efficiently in your applications.
- Understand what skills law firms are looking for and start building those through involvement in socieities, a part-time job, volunteering etc: make sure you engage in activities that you are genuinely interested in!
- Start building your commercial awareness: understand what commercial awareness is in the law firm context, what are the relevant news to follow and what are some of the concepts you should start familiarising yourself with (due diligence in M&A, funding etc.)
- Focus on your academics: while understanding the law firm process is important, you should not let it distract you from your academics. I found that there was a big gap between first year of university and A-levels, so do take your time to settle in! You can always join more extracurriculars later.
With regards to your decision to potentially resit your A-levels, I have heard that many firms will only consider three A-levels sat in the same year (for fairness reasons as it is more difficult to study 3 A-levels simultaneously) – I would encourage you to look into this if you are still hesitating about resitting.
I hope this helps, best of luck with your first year and applications!
