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Struggled with OCI and summering at v30. Want something else (the firm has issues and and TLS historically agrees with that). CCN with good grades (top 30 percent 1L top 10 percent 2L- all BLL). What is the best way to trade up 3L for lit? Network with atty's from specific firms? apply widely? only apply to firms that list openings? Going to apply to Clerkships but only for a couple of years after graduation so that won't help.

In addition to what you said, write something good/interesting and get it published. You need credible “lit” chops to rely on during whatever you’re able to gin up via networking etc. Also try to keep BLL heavy for 3L, and do any lit-related clinics if you can.

Landing a clerkship will help, too, even before you do it. You can put it on your application materials even if you haven’t done it yet.

3L OCI, apply thoughtfully with a credible story of why you're looking for a change from your 2L summer associate position. Some firms might think you got no-offered so be ready to counter that. There's a finite number of law firms that are worth trading up for so I don't see why you wouldn't apply to all of them.

Finally, it's easy to lateral as a junior associate so even if you go back to your 2L firm, it shouldnt be that hard to leave after a couple years.