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Message: <blockquote data-quote="m-m06" data-source="post: 216427" data-attributes="member: 42015">Hi everyone,I've just started my second year, and I wanted to share my situation because I’m facing a bit of a dilemma and could use some advice. I’ve applied for a solicitor apprenticeship (TC for simplicity) at a boutique firm, and I’m through to the second-stage interview next week. I feel hopeful about my chances as I’ve had positive feedback on my CV and work experience, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know the team.I applied to this firm early because of recent changes to funding for L7 apprenticeship routes. While on their VS, they told me that doing a placement year would make me ineligible for funding, so I applied quickly to secure a TC while eligible. I also genuinely liked the firm. If I get the offer, rejecting them now feels difficult, as it’s a guaranteed opportunity in a competitive market.I then completed another VS shortly after applying and realised I prefer a different firm. They’ve said they’re open to taking me on for a placement, which has a strong chance of leading to a training contract, and funding/age isn’t an issue. However, nothing is confirmed until I’ve applied and been offered a place. Their applications open later in the year, so a final decision wouldn’t come until months after the first firm’s offer, creating a timing mismatch. Also, taking that placement would make me ineligible for the first firm’s TC because of the funding rules.The dilemma is:<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">The first firm is a guaranteed TC while I’m eligible.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">The second firm is my preferred choice, but nothing is confirmed yet.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Taking the second firm’s placement would make me lose eligibility for the first firm’s TC.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">If I decline the first firm and the second firm doesn’t offer me a placement, I might regret not taking the safe option.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">How can I use the first TC offer as a safety net without acting unprofessionally?</li> </ul>From what I’ve read, SRA and Law Society guidance suggests offers cannot expire before 15 September of your final year or four weeks after the offer date, whichever is later, which gives students time to make considered decisions. My main questions are about etiquette: should I hold onto the first firm’s offer as long as possible? Does the 15 September deadline apply in my situation? Has anyone been in a similar position, balancing early offers against firms they genuinely prefer? Could I accept the offer and change my mind later, as I'm only in my second year? I’d love to hear how you managed the timing and made your decision.</blockquote>

Verification: Our company is called, "The Corporate ___ Academy". What is the missing word here?

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