Your 1L Job Search: 4 Things to Know

Your 1L Job Search: 4 Things to Know

As you begin law school, there is certainly no shortage of things to do! After all, you’re learning how to thrive in a new exam structure, spending time on outlines, and of course, all of the studying!  There’s another challenge, though, that might not seem as immediate but is also incredibly important–your 1L job search. Securing that crucial first clerkship can certainly feel impossible at times. Yet, with the right guidance and insights, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate this process confidently. Here are four essential things everyone should know about their law school 1L job search.

Your 1L Job Search: 4 Things to Know

1. The On-Campus Interview (OCI) Process

On-campus interviews, often abbreviated as OCIs, provide an opportunity for students to meet with potential employers without having to leave the comfort of their campus. Law firms, judges, and various legal entities come to the school, looking for potential summer clerks or interns.  This is a structured process where you’ll apply for interviews through your school’s career services department. If selected, you’ll get a slot to meet with the firm or organization.

Not everyone gets an OCI, and that’s okay! Remember, this is just one avenue for your “law school job search.” Most students secure fantastic clerkships without going through the OCI process.

2. Resources in the Career Services Office

Your career services office is a goldmine of resources tailored specifically for the “1L job search.”

Resume and Cover Letter: Utilize the expertise of the career advisors to help you craft a resume and fine-tune your cover letter.  They’ve seen what works and can offer invaluable feedback.

LinkedIn Profile: In this digital age, a strong online presence is indispensable. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date, highlighting your academic achievements, any prior legal experience, and your career aspirations.

3. Valuable Legal Experience Over Immediate Job Offers

The primary goal of your 1L summer should be to gain meaningful legal experience that enriches your academic journey and sets the foundation for your legal career.  While landing a job offer post your 1L summer would be fantastic, it’s not the norm. Many students return to school without an offer in hand. The key is to extract as much learning as you can from your summer position that you can use to help you land that perfect opportunity post-graduation.

Diversify Your Experience: Whether it’s drafting motions, attending hearings, or conducting legal research, aim to get a diverse range of experiences. It will not only enhance your resume but also give you a clearer picture of what you enjoy in the legal profession.

4. Broadening Your Job Search Horizon

While OCIs and the career services office are certainly valuable tools, there are other avenues to explore in your “1L job search.”

Online Job Portals: Websites like LinkedIn and Indeed often have listings tailored for law students. Additionally, your law school’s online database offers a plethora of job postings specific to the legal field.  These posts are typically vetted by your law school making this a great starting point!

Networking: Never underestimate the power of your network. Engage with alumni, attend networking events, and reach out to professionals in your desired field. A simple meeting over coffee can sometimes lead to unexpected opportunities.

Finally, most law schools have restrictions as to when law firms can start pursuing 1Ls as well as when 1Ls get access to certain career portals.  Make sure you pay close attention to the parameters your law school has in place as it relates to searching for jobs as a 1L!

While the “1L job search” might seem overwhelming at first, remember that every attorney has been in your shoes at some point. With preparation, perseverance, and the right resources, you’re well on your way to securing that coveted summer clerkship. Stay proactive, and seize the opportunities that come your way!

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