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I don't know what to do

I was predicted AAB but I got CCD, my grandfather died during a levels which hit me hard and I was also suffering with depression and anxiety during exam season, to the point where I couldn't sleep, couldn't eat and just couldn't revise anymore. I want to be a corporate lawyer at at least a top 100 law firm in London but unfortunately with the grade I have received I have only got offers from keele, Brunel, greenwich and the university of law. I can either accept one of these options even though I had my heart set on a rg uni, and work really hard to get a first class degree and a 2:1 and hopefully be within a chance of getting in to a good law firm for a training contract, or I can resit my A levels. I am just scared that my current A level grades are too low as if I did resit I would ideally want to get AAA. At the same time I can't accept that the grades I received yesterday are a true reflection of my ability, do you think my grades are too low that its not even worth retaking and I should just go to uni?

Reply 1

Original post
by x.iram.x
I was predicted AAB but I got CCD, my grandfather died during a levels which hit me hard and I was also suffering with depression and anxiety during exam season, to the point where I couldn't sleep, couldn't eat and just couldn't revise anymore. I want to be a corporate lawyer at at least a top 100 law firm in London but unfortunately with the grade I have received I have only got offers from keele, Brunel, greenwich and the university of law. I can either accept one of these options even though I had my heart set on a rg uni, and work really hard to get a first class degree and a 2:1 and hopefully be within a chance of getting in to a good law firm for a training contract, or I can resit my A levels. I am just scared that my current A level grades are too low as if I did resit I would ideally want to get AAA. At the same time I can't accept that the grades I received yesterday are a true reflection of my ability, do you think my grades are too low that its not even worth retaking and I should just go to uni?


I think you can resist your levels and get AAA, prepare well for an interview, heal mentally and try to get into Russell Group uni. It’s just 1 more year to make a dream come true.
But put a lot of work into studying for sure😊

Reply 2

Original post
by VIKI888
I think you can resist your levels and get AAA, prepare well for an interview, heal mentally and try to get into Russell Group uni. It’s just 1 more year to make a dream come true.
But put a lot of work into studying for sure😊

thank you for your response Viki
Original post
by x.iram.x
I was predicted AAB but I got CCD, my grandfather died during a levels which hit me hard and I was also suffering with depression and anxiety during exam season, to the point where I couldn't sleep, couldn't eat and just couldn't revise anymore. I want to be a corporate lawyer at at least a top 100 law firm in London but unfortunately with the grade I have received I have only got offers from keele, Brunel, greenwich and the university of law. I can either accept one of these options even though I had my heart set on a rg uni, and work really hard to get a first class degree and a 2:1 and hopefully be within a chance of getting in to a good law firm for a training contract, or I can resit my A levels. I am just scared that my current A level grades are too low as if I did resit I would ideally want to get AAA. At the same time I can't accept that the grades I received yesterday are a true reflection of my ability, do you think my grades are too low that its not even worth retaking and I should just go to uni?

Hello,

I totally understand how you’re feeling right now, and it’s totally okay to feel uncertain. Losing your grandfather and dealing with depression and anxiety during exam season is a huge emotional weight, and it’s completely understandable that it affected your performance. Please know that your A-level results don’t define you or your potential.
Now, when it comes to your options, I get why you’re torn. It’s a tough choice, but honestly, both routes have their pros and cons, so it really comes down to what feels best for you. Here’s what I think:

1.

Accepting an offer: If law and a corporate career are your passion, there’s definitely no reason why you can’t succeed at any of the universities you’ve been offered a place at. Law firms don’t just look at grades—they’re also interested in your ability to demonstrate practical skills, dedication, and a proactive approach. The University of Law (UoL), for instance, offers smaller class sizes, which means you get more one-on-one time with professors who are experienced professionals in the field (many of them are qualified solicitors, barristers, or judges). That personalised approach can really help you build the practical skills that employers are looking for. Plus, UoL has a great careers service and pro bono clinics, which can help you get real-world experience while you study—this can make a big difference when applying for training contracts or internships later on. UoL really focuses on providing practical, employer-focused learning, which is so important for your future career.

2.

Resitting your A-levels: If you truly feel that your grades don’t reflect your potential and that you could achieve AAA with another year of focus and hard work, resitting your A-levels could be a valid option. But I’d recommend thinking carefully about whether you’re ready to go through another year of exams and whether it would help you in the long run. Resitting is tough, and you’ll have to be prepared for more pressure, which is something to keep in mind, especially with everything you’ve been through. However, if you’re confident that you can smash your A-levels with a fresh start, it could help you get into a top university or improve your chances at some of the more competitive firms.

What I’d suggest is to take some time to reflect. Speak to someone you trust, whether it’s a mentor, careers advisor, or even your family. If you’re determined to become a corporate lawyer, remember that success in the legal world isn’t just about which university you go to—it’s about what you do with the opportunities you’re given and how hard you’re willing to work. Many successful lawyers have come from non-Russell Group universities by making the most of the resources available and demonstrating drive and resilience.

You’ve already been through so much, and it’s important to be kind to yourself in this process. Whatever you decide, your grades don’t define your future—you’ve got so much potential, and there’s always a way forward. Take your time, and don’t feel rushed to make a decision. You’ve got this!
(edited 1 year ago)

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