Begin Again <3 (My TC Journey)

TCHolderr

New Member
Aug 22, 2025
2
1
Hi!

I am a third year RG law student. I had just unsuccessfully completed my first application cycle and I was down in the dumps. I had convinced myself that I would never apply again because this career is just not for me. For context, I am an introvert and I get quite anxious in social situations, but I enjoy law and legal work and I really do want to become a solicitor. But all my life I have been told that it was not suitable for me as it was a very people-facing role. The last application cycle rejection just reinforced this doubt in my head that I could never be this person. Especially since last year I went way out of my comfort zone, networking and putting myself in every possible social situation. I got to the AC for HSF and I was so excited and I had just started believing I could do it, until the rejection crashed all my hope. I know I am late to this application cycle but I have been reading everyone's journeys on this forum, and it has helped me gain to courage to keep moving forward, and keep trying and begin again.

So I am starting my second cycle today, knowing that my journey will be filled with ups and downs and that I have to stay resilient. In this thread, I will update my application progress and plans weekly, as well as improve my commercial awareness by posting daily business news analysis.

My Goals for this month:
- Apply for the Macfarlanes Vac Scheme
- Apply for two open days to firms I am interested in
- Daily Commercial Awareness Updates
- Do three forage simulations so I can learn more about the role
- Practice WG and VI
 

abbietc03

Distinguished Member
Dec 13, 2022
63
175
Wishing you all the best!! I really related to your post as I'm also someone who suffers from social anxiety (+ neurodivergency), and have had my own doubts about whether law would be suitable for me. As long as you're passionate about it, the role is right for you! Hope all goes well for you this cycle :)
 
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User138756

Standard Member
Aug 28, 2025
9
2
Hi @TCHolderr. Firstly, I am sorry to hear about your struggles during the application process. It can often be a dejecting experience, as rejections are inevitable - as you have said, it is important to bear this in mind when you are applying! Making it to the AC stage at HSF certainly demonstrates to me that you are an exceptional candidate, given the small number of people that make it to that stage. It shows that you are doing lots of things right with your applications.

Setting goals for each month (or even each week) is a great way to hold yourself accountable, as well as to celebrate all the small successes within the application cycle. Best of luck with all the applications, and do keep us updated on your progress!
 
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vera.mekhonoshina

Well-Known Member
Staff member
Premium Member
Sep 7, 2023
23
19
Hi!

I am a third year RG law student. I had just unsuccessfully completed my first application cycle and I was down in the dumps. I had convinced myself that I would never apply again because this career is just not for me. For context, I am an introvert and I get quite anxious in social situations, but I enjoy law and legal work and I really do want to become a solicitor. But all my life I have been told that it was not suitable for me as it was a very people-facing role. The last application cycle rejection just reinforced this doubt in my head that I could never be this person. Especially since last year I went way out of my comfort zone, networking and putting myself in every possible social situation. I got to the AC for HSF and I was so excited and I had just started believing I could do it, until the rejection crashed all my hope. I know I am late to this application cycle but I have been reading everyone's journeys on this forum, and it has helped me gain to courage to keep moving forward, and keep trying and begin again.

So I am starting my second cycle today, knowing that my journey will be filled with ups and downs and that I have to stay resilient. In this thread, I will update my application progress and plans weekly, as well as improve my commercial awareness by posting daily business news analysis.

My Goals for this month:
- Apply for the Macfarlanes Vac Scheme
- Apply for two open days to firms I am interested in
- Daily Commercial Awareness Updates
- Do three forage simulations so I can learn more about the role
- Practice WG and VI
Hi @TCHolderr,

Getting to the AC stage is an absolutely incredible achievement, and you must be very proud of yourself and how far you have come.

I know first-hand that rejection, especially after you have worked so hard for something for so long, can take a bad toll on confidence, mindset, and even the desire to continue applying. But getting this far with HSF should show you that you belong in commercial law, that you are working in the right direction and doing the right things.

For this application cycle, I wish you resilience, confidence, and luck. You are not starting late - the application cycle is just beginning. Don't let your self-doubt prevent you from achieving something amazing. Keep this thread going - I look forward to following your progress!
 
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TCHolderr

New Member
Aug 22, 2025
2
1
You all are too kind!! I will definitely put in a lot of work this application season and keep updating this thread. I will also start posting commercial things I learn, both for myself and for anyone else who might want to learn. I wish all of you the best for your journey this year :)
 
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Isabelcampbell

Standard Member
Sep 2, 2025
9
3
Hi!

I am a third year RG law student. I had just unsuccessfully completed my first application cycle and I was down in the dumps. I had convinced myself that I would never apply again because this career is just not for me. For context, I am an introvert and I get quite anxious in social situations, but I enjoy law and legal work and I really do want to become a solicitor. But all my life I have been told that it was not suitable for me as it was a very people-facing role. The last application cycle rejection just reinforced this doubt in my head that I could never be this person. Especially since last year I went way out of my comfort zone, networking and putting myself in every possible social situation. I got to the AC for HSF and I was so excited and I had just started believing I could do it, until the rejection crashed all my hope. I know I am late to this application cycle but I have been reading everyone's journeys on this forum, and it has helped me gain to courage to keep moving forward, and keep trying and begin again.

So I am starting my second cycle today, knowing that my journey will be filled with ups and downs and that I have to stay resilient. In this thread, I will update my application progress and plans weekly, as well as improve my commercial awareness by posting daily business news analysis.

My Goals for this month:
- Apply for the Macfarlanes Vac Scheme
- Apply for two open days to firms I am interested in
- Daily Commercial Awareness Updates
- Do three forage simulations so I can learn more about the role
- Practice WG and VI
Hi there,

First, I just want to say well done for sharing your journey so openly- and it’s clear how much thought and effort you’re putting into your next cycle. Don’t be disheartened because you’re an introvert, this is not a weakness whatsoever, and the best solicitors don’t all fit in one personality box. Rejection can be really demoralising, especially after pushing yourself so far out of your comfort zone, but the fact that you’re reflecting on your experience and planning your next steps shows exactly the kind of resilience and self-awareness that firms value.

Your approach for this month is excellent! Breaking it down into achievable goals like this is smart way to stay motivated and track progress. I’d encourage you to keep using the forum for support, sharing your updates, asking questions, and reading other members’ journeys will give you perspective and great practical tips. Your attitude is great, so please keep us updated and use your experience to help others as well!

Hope this has been useful!
 

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