Will a Gap Year Hurt My Training Contract Chances?
A non-law finalist has reached out to us for guidance on whether taking a gap year before starting the Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL) could harm their chances of securing a training contract. The individual is planning to use the year productively through work experience, paid work, and volunteering, but is concerned that this may be viewed negatively by law firms.
Expert Opinion
According to various experts in the field, taking a gap year before starting the PGDL will not hinder one’s chances of securing a training contract. In fact, gaining work experience, learning new skills, and taking time to travel and broaden one’s mind can be highly beneficial. As one expert noted, “If you use the gap year for what you’re saying you will, it will help not hinder. When you are approaching the end, you will absolutely not be thinking ‘I wish I hadn’t taken that gap year’.”
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Benefits of a Gap Year
Taking a gap year can provide individuals with valuable skills and experiences that can be applied to their future careers. For example, working in a shop, pub, or supermarket can teach individuals important skills such as time management, customer service, and teamwork. These skills can be highly valuable in a legal career and can make an individual a more attractive candidate to potential employers. As one expert noted, “I would much rather have a trainee that has worked for a year in Tesco than someone who has never had a job.”
What to Do During the Gap Year
So, what can individuals do during their gap year to make their training contract applications stronger? Here are a few suggestions:
- Gain work experience: Try to gain as much work experience as possible, whether it’s through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering. This will not only provide valuable skills and experiences but also demonstrate to potential employers that you are proactive and motivated.
- Learn new skills: Use the gap year to learn new skills, such as languages or courses on AI. This will not only make you a more attractive candidate but also provide you with a competitive edge in the job market.
- Travel and broaden your mind: Take time to travel and broaden your mind. This will not only provide you with new experiences and perspectives but also help you to develop a more rounded and nuanced worldview.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking a gap year before starting the PGDL will not hurt one’s chances of securing a training contract. In fact, it can be highly beneficial, providing individuals with valuable skills and experiences that can be applied to their future careers. As one expert noted, “Life is short. Youth is even shorter. Use it to have fun. The trade off that corporate law firms offer (your youth for big money) can be worth it for some. But if you can delay it, delay it and make sure you have fun doing so.”
