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I just have a couple of questions that will probably sounds random... mostly because they are random.

So I'm a 2L at > 70. Top %15. Just finished most of my screenings through my school's "OCI." I went to law school with the intention of moving back to Wichita, where I did my undergrad, to work. With that said, I only bid on Wichita firms (I know I'll get blasted for this, but I have strong reasons for needing to clerk in Wichita). I've had 6 screens with 2 more coming. No callbacks.

Ok. Here's my questions. One, at what point do I give up hearing back from firms? (For those familiar with Wichita, I'm talking Foulston Seifkin, Morris Laing, Hinkle, Fleeson, etc). I haven't received rejections either. Some of these interviews were just last week. When is it acceptable to send a follow up email reaffirming my interest in the firm? Is there anything that I can really do that would actually make a difference or am I basically just powerlessly waiting?

Two, assuming none of my OCI screenings culminate into an offer, what have others done for small legal markets to get their foot into the door at a private firm. Last summer I worked in the public sector (just rather not list exactly where) so I'd like to experience the private sector. I love studying law, I'm a nerd like that. So I seriously could practice any type of law and legitimately enjoy it (except tax law... I'd rather teach middle schoolers about the Constitution). Mass emails? Emails to alumni? What seemed to be the most productive? It doesn't necessarily need to be paid. Although it'd be nice. I am not incurring debt. In state with scholly, so I have a little more freedom.

Thanks

Disclaimer: I'm a 3L looking for a job. However, last year I was in a similar situation. Focused on a Midwest city I was from, had several screeners/call backs, but didn't get an offer. While this may be a little different as the city I focused on is larger than Wichita, one thing I noticed is I missed out on the ability to be considered at some of the slightly smaller firms that didn't have formal OCI processes. I waited until I didn't hear back from all my screeners/call backs to start focusing on the more mid-range (15-40 person-ish) firms, and many had filled their summer spot(s). I'd recommend sending an email inquiring about a summer position with you resume to all the firms in Wichita with more than about a dozen attorneys sometime soon.

Also, almost none of the firms gave me rejections by the time frame they suggested at the interview. I followed up usually about a week after they said I should expect to hear (this is relating to callbacks), just saying I am still interested and wanted to follow up. Many will then send you a rejection. Sometimes you may sort of be an alternate and they'll keep you in limbo for awhile until other people accept/decline their offers.

Good luck!