The dating game

It's that time of year again, when the not-so-fresh-faced first year lawyers have to decide where they want to go rest of their lives.

This process reminds Tea Lady of the time she used to play dodg'em ball at school. All the grade 4 kids would line up in a row, against the toilet block wall, and we would be chosen one by one. I always dreaded this process of elimination, because I would inevitably be one of the last ones selected. Even Susie-Lee, with her scrawny legs and metallic braces, would be chosen before I was. Everyone wanted to be wanted, and no one wanted to be last. Similarly, every AC wants to be the number one draft pick.

The Tea Lady's advice to first years? Approach the whole experience as though it's an episode of *Perfect Match*. Flirt a little, be a bit coy, and never commit too early on.

Choosing a group is a lot like dating. We've all been guilty at one point or another of becoming interested in someone simply because they're quite keen on you. If you go to a group simply because they want you, their attitude towards you might quickly change once you're actually there. Similarly, it's also not recommended that you choose a group based on the people. With such a high turnover, chances are all the nice people will leave by the time the year's out.

And, just like in Perfect Match, you never quite know what's behind the corner. At least if you enjoy the work, you'll be ready for any nasty surprises.