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Hi All:
I am a 0L about to start at MVP. I am very interested in government work, but will be waiting to apply for those summer programs as a 2L to increase my odds. In the meantime, I would like to work for a firm this summer to gain experience in that realm. Through my current line or work (consulting), I have had to opportunity to work closely with partners are three V100 firms. I think all would be willing to go to bat for me, but I don't think any will do much beyond "putting in a good word" or two. I would prefer to work in their DC offices (which is where the partners work), but am open to anywhere.

Is it worth pursuing a 1L SA position? What kind of grades do you think I'd need? When would I apply?

(If I apply early, there are no grades for them to see)

Well if you've read anything on this board you know getting a 1L SA is very difficult (assuming you aren't URM). It doesn't hurt to try to get one, but also apply for other summer jobs when the time comes. Obviously great grades are better than mediocre ones, but I've often heard of people getting 1L SAs without sending any grades at all, so try and apply early when the time comes.

Re: your connections: Why not email those lawyers at the end of the summer and mention that you're going to LS, and see if they have any advice? Keep the relationship going throughout the fall, and then once you get closer to the application opening date (Dec 1st), mention to them that you're looking for a summer position, and if you get lucky they'll offer to send your information into the hiring office which would give you a big bump in consideration.

Also do a search on TLS, there are a ton of threads on this already.

It's always worth applying for a 1L SA position, just don't count on it. You've got good connections to work, and should apply more broadly as well. Focus on grades, prepare to blast some resumes out the door on 12/1 (the first date firms are allowed to look at applications), and see where things go from there.

The 12/01 date is only for 1L positions? Obviously, they look at resumes at OCI in August. What about being hired as an intern/paralegal--is this the date for that as well?

Anonymous User wrote:The 12/01 date is only for 1L positions? Obviously, they look at resumes at OCI in August. What about being hired as an intern/paralegal--is this the date for that as well?

Yes, that is the date for 1L internships. Firms aren't allowed to accept applications before that date. I'm not sure about paralegal, but why would you want to be a paralegal for 1L summer?

Do a little research first on NALP if you don't know the rules yet. It'll be helpful to know in the fall when you begin searching for a 1L summer job.