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Wrapped up OCI at a T6 recently and did fine but frankly trying to trade up. Will be clerking right after graduation. Lit-focused, so I’ve heard that 3L OCI may be tough (firms seem to be looking to fill very specific transactional subgroups), but is there any hope for optimism if I recruit explicitly as a summer pre-clerkship instead of as a 3L gunning for a FT offer? Is the most productive route 3L OCI or just networking / direct apps?

3L recruiting is geared towards specific needs. Since you are going into a clerkship, you aren't in a position to fill those needs. Can't hurt to try to apply, but I think you'll have better luck applying during your clerkship.

My impression is that not many firms take 3L/pre-clerkship summers, although there's no reason not to try. I agree that you'll likely have better luck applying during your clerkship, though.

Do both networking/direct apps and 3L OCI.

Are you trying to trade up in biglaw? If so, I agree that not many firms will take on pre-clerkship associates who didn't already summer at the firm. If not and if you're competitive for them, "elite" lit boutiques typically take pre-clerkship summers. I did one (one of SG/KH), and it was a good experience, though I'll note that most boutiques won't give official full time offers to summers.