I also have undertaken 3 mini-pupillages at the Criminal bar...they all told me solicitors are doing their jobs by higher rights so it might be easier to go down that route. I am now looking at the Commercial/IP bar but it also looks difficult and I have AAB and trying my best for a 2:1. I think at the end of the day if it is what you really want to do, that passion should come across in interviews and application forms and further work experience. I am prepared to have to take a few years out, perhaps do pro bono work or do a Masters to further my chances but if the desire is there (its usually found by walking through the Inns of Court) I think you shouldn't give up! Everything is negative today for graduates but someone has to get the jobs available!

Yer, I absolutely agree. You have to show your enthusiasm and some people do end up as barristers each year! There is always the option of becoming a solicitor advocate too, which seems less competitive to me - though don't quote me on that!

How will you know until you try? it's not like you are have poor academics and no experience - I think there's lots of luck involved, but go for it, if that's what you really want.

Of course passion and enthusiasm helps, but unfortunately I can't help but feel in many cases it's a 'oh, you went the same school!' or 'you were at Oxford also?!'. How else can it be explained when you look at the people working at chambers pretty much all are Oxbridge

If you want to be a barrister you don't have a choice!