Anonymous wrote:big firm. its a long shot and if it'll be an automatic ding I don't want to bother.
I'm not sure why you wouldn't bother. It takes all of 45 minutes to send out a good job-tailored application (if you already have a resume and cover letter in the works), and the more you apply the more you'll have the application resources to use in the future. By keeping my previous job applications organized, I am always able to find a strong template for future applications.