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TLS has saved my ass in a few prior situations, so I'm turning to you all again. I'm really conflicted on which of my two summer offers to choose. I know the traditional wisdom is "it doesn't matter, just do something law-related your first summer," but I'd appreciate any additional advice anyone can give.

Offer 1:
Externship with a large medical association (I'm interested in going into health law). Unpaid. Will work about 20-30 hours a week. Will have the opportunity to attend meetings with attorneys and doctors; create my own scholarly work and present it during a conference; will see different aspects of health law, not just one (i.e. regulatory).

Offer 2:
Clerkship with circuit court judge. Unpaid. Will work 15-20 hours a week. Will have the opportunity to sit in on court; will have the opportunity to do extensive research and writing; obviously will have the opportunity to get to know a judge well.

I know some people might think it makes sense to do both; however, I currently have a firm job doing non-legal work and it would be nice to keep it throughout the summer so I can at least make some money. I will also be taking a few summer classes.

Thanks for the help!

It doesn't matter, just do something law-related your first summer.

This choice literally boils down to which you think you would prefer. I mean we could grab some coffee and talk about your feelings, but those are going to be the deciding factor here.

I guess if I were you I'd do offer 1 if you thought the experience would help you decide on your next move, or offer 2 if the lower time commitment sounded nice and/or you have a reason to think the judge would be great or you'd really like the work.

thesealocust wrote:It doesn't matter, just do something law-related your first summer.

This choice literally boils down to which you think you would prefer. I mean we could grab some coffee and talk about your feelings, but those are going to be the deciding factor here.

I guess if I were you I'd do offer 1 if you thought the experience would help you decide on your next move, or offer 2 if the lower time commitment sounded nice and/or you have a reason to think the judge would be great or you'd really like the work.

+1

If you want to do health law I think #1 makes a lot more sense though it will be rougher on your time. Either it will help you decide or it will be a beneficial line on your resume to convey interest/experience in the field.