How to answer why do you want to clerk Forum

[Anonymous User]

One of my professors who is writing me a letter of recommendation also asked I write him a paragraph on why I want to clerk so he can better tailor my letter. I really just want to clerk because it will possibly help me get a job but I think I probably need to say something better than that. Any suggestions are appreciated.

[ymmv]

You really can't think of anything? A chance to be exposed to a wide range of legal issues and arguments from accomplished attorneys? An opportunity to observe the litigation system from the "inside" and benefit from a judge's experience? Improve your legal research and writing skills along with your ability to craft a strong written argument? Gain practical familiarity with a wide range of motions and procedural processes?

I mean, come on, dude, you can do better than "it looks good on a resume." Talk to some clerks or former clerks and figure out why/whether you actually want to do this.

[BearState]

Serve the public, gain an experienced mentor in a field where mentorship is declining, get experience in X practice area because you like it and the court's docket has a lot of it, meet practicing attorneys and clients in the district/circuit/state you want to work in.

[sundance95]

play a role in the constitutional system