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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Abbie Whitlock" data-source="post: 218704" data-attributes="member: 42112">Hey!I completely get how you feel - it's so tough when you're putting in all that effort and you end up feeling a bit stuck on how to improve. I have definitely struggled with ACs in my previous cycles, and I think it was definitely down to a combination of nerves and my preparation.However, getting to multiple ACs is a huge achievement in itself, and it shows you're already doing so many things right. Converting them often comes down to small refinements rather than big changes. Here are a few things that might help!Look for PatternsThink about which parts of the AC you find trickiest - interviews, group exercises, or case studies. If there is a recurring theme (e.g. nerves in partner interviews), that's where to focus your prep! In my ACs, my recurring weakness was my commercial awareness, as I hadn't really grasped how to link this to law firms. This is where I focused a lot of my preparation (e.g. FT News Briefing, LittleLaw, TCLA and BIUCAC) and it meant I was using my time most effectively.Motivational QuestionsBy the AC stage, firms will want to see not just that you're capable, but that you genuinely want to train there and that you are a good fit. I would make sure that you're linking your experiences and interests to their specific practice areas, culture, and strategy overall. This can be useful to think about before the AC, so you have a clear answer in your head and can express this confidently.Structure and ReflectionIn interviews, I would try using a clear structure (e.g. STAR). However, it is important to also be reflective and explain what you learned and how you'd do things differently next time. It's great if you can show that you are self-aware of both your strengths and your weaknesses, and that you are continually trying to improve where you can.Simulate an AC environmentI would try and practice under realistic conditions if you can - e.g. time-limited exercises, group discussions with friends, or mock partner interviews. Of course, you can't necessarily simulate the nerves that you will feel in the real thing. However, the more familiar the format feels, the more confidently you'll perform (as you'll feel more prepared).Ask for FeedbackIf firms provide it, look for consistent themes in their comments. Even one line of feedback can sometimes make it 'click' on the areas that you didn't realise you should be focusing on. This can be a tricky skill to exercise, and I always used to get a bit internally 'defensive' about criticism. However, firms want to see you succeed and I would take the advice on board and genuinely reflect on what you could be doing differently.You're clearly so close - I'm sure you will be able to convert once you've fine-tuned your approach! Keep going, and don't lose sight of the successes you have achieved so far <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite1" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=":)" /></blockquote>

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

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