Please help!!! How to switch markets before/after 2L SA with clerkship Forum

[Anonymous User]

I'm a 2L at a T14, and have a biglaw SA lined up for this summer in a major secondary market. While I was initially happy with that location when I accepted the offer, my spouse just got accepted to a PhD program in DC that begins my graduation year, so I am now looking to switch markets (his program is about 5-6 years). I also have an east coast fed district court clerkship that starts right after I graduate that thankfully will allow me to see my spouse in DC every weekend. (think Boston/Philly/NJ/Baltimore)

I am unsure about where to go from here. Which of these options would be the best to land in DC?
- My SA firm has a large DC office; should I ask to transfer to this office? If so, when?
- 3L OCI - how would this work with my clerkship? Would they hire me with a 1-year deferred start date?
- Searching during the clerkship - since DC is so competitive, I'm nervous that I might not find anything during that time. Is it doable?

I would be very grateful for any and all advice!!

**I don't know if this plays into it, but I did get a DC offer during OCI, but (stupidly) turned it down because we didn't think SO would get into PhD program there, and wanted to save money by living in secondary market. So I believe my grades+law review are at least passable for DC.

*cross-posted from the other site