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I have a solid amount of pre-LS work experience, all in public interest work.
I just received notice that I comp'd onto the journal of my choice (not LR), and I am on the boards of two pro bono projects.
My grades are solid, but not spectacular (just below top-1/3) at MPVB.
I have really good personal/family ties to four "flyover" districts where I'm really interested in working.
I am a 1L right now, so obviously my grades could change after this semester, but for the sake of this question let's say they hold steady.
Realistically what are my chances at a District Court Clerkship in the more rural districts where I'm interested in working?

Any feedback on chances/soft cutoffs or advice on how to structure my next year to maximize my shot would be appreciated.

Thanks!

You could be in for an up-hill climb. Folks with slightly higher grades (think top 25%) will probably have the same idea, and some flyover district judges would take top 5% at a local school over top third at MVPB. Still, it can't hurt to apply when the time comes.

Would it help that I went to undergrad at the flagship state school of the state where two of the districts sit?

Anonymous User wrote:Would it help that I went to undergrad at the flagship state school of the state where two of the districts sit?

Local connections can be very helpful but generally aren't sufficient. Assuming your GPA stays roughly the same, I think you might have most luck applying as an alum after getting a year or two of work experience under your belt.