New York Law Journal: Law Schools, April 27 2009

The Rankings

If a firm that you are interested in is not participating, don’t let that stop you. Submit your résumé through a résumé drop organized by your school, or submit it to the firm directly.

Another option is to find out if that firm is participating in regional law school consortia where you may be able to participate. Additionally, look up law school alums listed on the firm’s Web site and contact them to let them know that you are applying. Ask for some time to speak with them about questions you may have about the firm and the interview process.

If you are looking beyond law firms, you’ll find a comprehensive list of public interest and gov-

You’ll benefit from
attending workshops
designed by your law
school for pointers
on interviewing skills
and résumé writing.

why you will be an asset to the organization.

Final Thoughts

What Frims Want

ernment agency related postings at the “Helpful Links” section of www. pslawnet.org. Another useful source is http:// www.internships-usa. com/fedlaw/ fedind.htm that lists federal legal internships.

Reading legal and non-legal publications or periodicals, such as Fortune magazine, may be useful for compiling a list of companies in other industries, such as medical or tech-

nology, when looking into other legal positions.

Any experience where you can enhance your writing and research skills will be a valuable one. Look for jobs related to judicial clerkships, positions with professors, or unpaid internship opportunities where your skills will translate. Talk to law school professors and former employers and ask them for referrals. Do not be afraid to

be direct in what you are asking.

You’ll benefit from attending workshops designed by your law school for pointers on interviewing skills and résumé writing, where you’ll likely learn a few new techniques, or be reminded of ones that still are useful. When you begin to interview, prepare two or three talking points that will give the interviewer an idea of who you are and

Take a deep breath and take comfort in knowing that all of us in the legal community are working to make opportunities avail-

able to and attainable for law students.

Although you may be worrying about law school loans or feel overwhelmed juggling your course work with extracurricular activities and the need to search for a job in a troubled market, use this time to enjoy being a student and take advantage of opportunities that are presented to you.

Start managing your careers today and build relationships to broaden your network. In due time, the economy will bounce back as many have predicted. In the meantime, stay the course and remember to continue to focus on your immediate and long-term career goals. •

LAW SCHOOLS: A Special Report

Kris Fischer, Dorothy Hughes, Michael J. Paquette, Elaine Song, Monika Kozak, All images are copyrighted

Editor-In-Chief Sections Editor Managing Editor Deputy Sections Editor Section Designer Cover image: Rick Kopstein; Other photos: Rick Kopstein; iStock; various law schools