Summer Clerkships
The summer clerkship is the quintessential law school experience for many aspiring attorneys. Summer clerkships are the ticket to a job with many of the largest, most prestigious law firms. For this reason, summer clerkship opportunities are limited and competitive. Many of the larger law firms base clerkship hiring decisions on superior academic performance and/or law review experience.
Most summer clerkship programs commence at the end of the law student’s second year, last 10 to 14 weeks and end at the close of the summer. However, some clerkships may be offered during the school year.
While the large majority of clerkship programs exist in large law firms, a number of clerkships opportunities can also be found in small and mid-size firms as well as corporations, the government and the judiciary (see judicial clerkships, above).
Summer clerkships in large law firms are often very research and writing intensive since that type of work is more easily delegated to summer staff than complex, long-term projects. Some of the larger law firm and corporate employers have well-developed summer clerkship programs that include periodic reviews, social events, mentor assignments and a well-established method of allocating assignments.
Pro Bono Projects
“Pro Bono” means “for the good of the people.” Students performing pro bono projects help to serve marginalized communities and underserved populations – such as children and the elderly - that are often denied access to justice. Pro bono work is another excellent way to serve the public while developing your legal skills.
Pro bono work is encouraged, though often not required, by both law schools and legal employers. A wide variety of public service awards exist for students and employees who perform pro bono work. Pro bono work is also a great credential for your resume.
No matter what type of internship you participate in, you are certain to build your legal credentials, make valuable contacts, and refine your legal skills. For many students, participating in an internship, externship, summer clerkship or legal clinic is one of the most rewarding experiences of their legal education.
