1L SA - writing sample? Forum

[mcs268]

Do you need to send in a writing sample when applying for a 1L SA? I don't see why it would be any different than a judicial externship, but my career services center said we should only send them when asked. Is that really true? I know career services often sucks depending where you go, so I'm really not sure.

[mommalee]

I've noticed that some 1L SA's ask for them, but not all. Additionally, a lot of the ones that do are for fellowships that offer $$$. I spoke with some 2L's that did 1L SA's and they said they typically sent out a firm specific CL and a resume.

[mcs268]

Thanks! The idea of printing out 20 more 10 page memos for the 59 I already have to send would be marvelous. Will just have to check on the firms specifically.

Someone else just want to confirm before I jump the gun? lol.

[Anonymous User]

Last year for the firms that asked for a writing sample, I only had to send in a writing sample after my callback with the firm.

My initial thought that it came down to me and someone else, so the writing sample was another distinguishing factor.

Though, I cannot say for sure.

But on your note about printing out applications, I personally did not apply via paper applications. Everything I applied was through: (1) email or (2) the firm's online HR page.

[JazzOne]

Do you have a good writing sample? I include a writing sample even when it's not requested if I really want the job.

[Anonymous User]

Also, isn't it still fairly early in the 1L SA recruitment process?

Last year, I didn't get all of my application materials prepared and sent out until early to mid January.

I didn't even touch the application until after Christmas.

Though, as a disclaimer, I only applied to diversity 1L SA positions. The timeline could be different for the general 1L SA positions.

[A. Nony Mouse]

My understanding has always been, only send what's asked for, or else you look like you can't follow directions. Someone who does hiring for biglaw posted here once about how a writing sample in isolation doesn't usually help you very much (I think the idea was that on its own, a 1L writing sample isn't likely to be hugely impressive to practicing attorneys, and it wouldn't be part of a pile of other 1L samples for context. That, and no one reads them).

[unlicensedpotato]

Also, isn't it still fairly early in the 1L SA recruitment process?

Last year, I didn't get all of my application materials prepared and sent out until early to mid January.

I didn't even touch the application until after Christmas.

Though, as a disclaimer, I only applied to diversity 1L SA positions. The timeline could be different for the general 1L SA positions.

I would apply December 1 if you can (don't risk your grades though) or shortly thereafter. This allows you to indicate to firms in your target markets that you will be around over the holidays so they won't have to pay for a CB. This is a great way to get your foot in the door.

[2014]

Thanks! The idea of printing out 20 more 10 page memos for the 59 I already have to send would be marvelous. Will just have to check on the firms specifically.

Someone else just want to confirm before I jump the gun? lol.

Why are you applying by snail mail?

[Anonymous User]

I only applied via email and did not include a writing sample unless asked. The firms that gave me callbacks all requested a writing sample after doing a screener call. Got offers for 1L SA.

Also, definitely start applying the first week in December. I had my offers by January 15th. Some firms definitely interview/hire later, but many interview in early January.

[mcs268]

Oh sorry, this blew up faster than I thought. lol.

I will definitely be applying December 1. I'm applying to externships too so I'll be ready on that date anyway.

I also figured that since externships were snail mail, so was Big Law. I was going to send them out on Nov 30. There is not really a lot of info about 1L positions - NALP doesn't say if they want a writing sample or not or how to apply - should I just shoot them an email? I'm just afraid of contacting them before the Dec 1st date, but I also don't want to be a day unnecessarily late.

[2014]

Oh sorry, this blew up faster than I thought. lol.

I will definitely be applying December 1. I'm applying to externships too so I'll be ready on that date anyway.

I also figured that since externships were snail mail, so was Big Law. I was going to send them out on Nov 30. There is not really a lot of info about 1L positions - NALP doesn't say if they want a writing sample or not or how to apply - should I just shoot them an email? I'm just afraid of contacting them before the Dec 1st date, but I also don't want to be a day unnecessarily late.

Last year I did email to the nalp contact or followed their website directions and no firm gave me flak about it. I would greatly suggest doing it online, but I'm not willing to go so far as to say that paper is not ok or that every single recruiter prefers email. I imagine most do however.