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If you’re a 1L, you have one semester of
law school under your belt. Where you
fell in rank (if your school ranks after the first semester) or your grades
will define whether or not you are eligible for early on-campus interviews for
upcoming summer associate positions. It
seems a bit harsh for employers to base their decision on so little (maybe 5
exams?), especially when things could change in the second semester…right? Regrettably, those first exams are the only
thing that illustrates your ability to understand the law. They tell the employer how you are doing compared
to your classmates as well as the likelihood of your success in law school and with
that firm. Fortunately, if you did
extremely well during your first semester, you will likely be recruited this
month for on-campus interview season. As
summer associate positions are dwindling across the nation, it is important
that you prepare thoroughly for your interviews. Whether you are going to do interviews now or
have to wait until the end of the spring semester, these tips will help you.
1.
Get your
paperwork in order. Polish up your résumé and writing samples.
Have career counselors and your legal writing professor check over these and
ask for critiques on how to make your documents stronger. Get copies of your transcripts as well. Study all of these materials so you can
answer any question that might arise, be it a legal issue or case from your
writing sample or a blip on your résumé.
Expenses: invest in quality
paper and a quality printer. Since you
should bring these materials with you on the interview for the interviewer’s
convenience, your documents should be professional.
2.
Suit up. Get your suit to the dry cleaner early so it
is ready for last minute interviews. If
you don’t have a suit, purchase a solid color (black, gray or navy) so you can
mix and match it with tops and/or ties already in your closet and get multiple
uses out of it. Expenses: purchase of a suit and/or dry cleaning bill.
3.
Practice! Come up with questions and professional
answers. Practice them. This way when your nerves take over, you’re
less likely to stumble, mumble, or sound stupid. Research everything you can about the firm
and the person conducting the interview.
Come up with questions you would like to ask. Remember, this interview is both ways and you
want to be sure this firm will be helpful to your goals. Practice with trusted mentors, career
counselors, and established attorneys you may know to get critiques and
differing points of view. Expenses: Free. HERE are some good
questions to get you started.
4.
Follow up. Be sure to send professional Thank You cards to interviewers and
anyone who may have taken time to help you practice. After sending the thank you, do not pester the employer about their decision. Many times, the interviewer will state when you
will likely hear back from them. If they
do not mention a time, feel free to ask during the interview or wait 3 to 5
days or up to a week before asking about your status. Expenses: Invest in professional stationary for your Thank You notes.
Take these four steps and be your best
professional self, and you could have summer associate listed on your résumé by
next fall.
Related
Articles: A Midsummer Associate’s Dream
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