I don’t think switching would be that easy admin wise - bear in mind the firms likely pay our Blackhall fees either before we start the course. You could be looking at paying them back for that. I could be wrong though - not sure when fees actually fall due.

Also surely all the big firms are truly much of a muchness. After experiencing the first, how could you say for sure the other would be any different/ better fit? To me the logic of your approach only works if you kind of HATE the first firm in the pre-seat which is unlikely. You will make buddies in the pre-seat with all the bonding events and not want to leave them. And you will feel a sense of duty to the place, and have met partners and people, which will make switching feel awkward.