Did anybody do the NY Pro Bono Scholars Program? Forum

[esrom55]

I'm curious if anyone out there did the NY Pro Bono Scholars Programs. I'm considering doing it, and I would love to hear anyone else's experiences.

I think I'd way rather take the bar in February and work for 12 weeks and be licensed shortly after graduation (as I understand it) than take spring classes, study and take the bar over the summer, and not be licensed until November.

Specifically, with NY being a UBE state, it seems like you should be able to transfer your score to a different UBE state, correct? Also, if anyone had a job lined up, was this a factor (positive or negative)?

Thanks!

[NYNY65]

I did it. The experience was great and is akin to a law firm externship. Dedicating time to working in the Pro Bono field is definitely a rewarding endeavor for all involved, especially given the amount of need existing in NY and across the country. With that said, I will pass along some strategic advice that I was given by a friend about why the program should be a consideration. 1-You take the bar early and will have an expedited admission process. If you fail to pass, you've essentially had a bite at the apple and can take it again in July as you were originally planning and won't set your 'clock' back. Since most bar companies, I believe, will let you use their services again for a nominal fee if you fail, at worst you can think of February as practice run. Obviously bust your ass to pass it, but if you don't, you'll be armed with the experience of taking it once entering July with the majority of your year. 2-If you have a job lined up, you should strategically choose your placement. This all depends on the field of law you'll be entering but there are plenty of placements to choose from, many within several departments. You can think of it as a focused learning through doing simulation. Also, in my experience and from other Pro Bonos, you can use the opportunity to hone some of your skills in a 'real world' environment (ie. Representation at hearings, writing briefs, et al). 3-It satisfies the 50 hour pro bono requirement. 4-It's a great networking opportunity. 5-The bar is behind you, at least when you start your position, so you don't really feel like a law student anymore. I think we all know what 3L can be like. Regarding your UBE question: I'm pretty sure you can transfer the score -- and I know NJ will be in play next February (after adopting the UBE), if that interests you. Of all the advice I've received the two most prominent were always the value of the service you're providing, which is incredible rewarding, and the expedited admission. From what I've heard, those who pass this February will have C/F and be sworn in come late June.

A caveat: You likely won't be receiving any graded work for this semester unless your school has some form of a small credit seminar, so if your GPA is something you're looking to boost in the Spring of 3L, keep in mind that it likely will end up being at/around the range you left it after the Fall semester. On the flip, I suppose it's also a way to protect your GPA. You should also consider what you're giving up. Perhaps there are courses you truly want to take in your final semester. The Program will cost you the same tuition, so you really do have to balance that aspect.

Wish you the best of luck and am happy to answer any other questions.