I want to emphasize my use of the word 'choosing' rather than 'finding.' Once you have taken your test you want to contact general and master falconers, but I discourage having 'getting your papers signed' as the first priority. I know, it's hard! You're excited and you want to get started! But if you take your time and choose, you will be better off.

Simply going out with falconers (other apprentices included) will help you get an idea of what kinds of birds you find the most interesting. Sometimes it's hard to know what to ask, but starting with questions like "Why does the falconer like that particular type", or "What are the differences between this type and another type the falconer has had experience with", or "What other type of bird does the falconer want to try, and why" can open up explanations that lead to more questions. (By "type" of bird I mean both breed and gender.)

Going out with the purpose of observing flying and hunting also gives you a chance to observe the falconer's style. Once you've been out with a few you will start to see differences in how they handle their birds, how they act with other falconers in the field, what their attitudes are toward the bird if she misses the game.

If you find you like a particular type of bird, then go for the falconer who works with that type. If you find you like someone's style, go for him or her. It's going to be a lot more likely that someone will say YES if you can give them reasons why you want specifically him/her to sponsor you.