CBA Record February_March 2016

YLS Special Issue l THE COMPLETE LAWYER

By Paul Geske

Summer Internships Eight Tips for Law Students

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A lmost immediately after complet- ing the first year of law school, students across the country begin heading into their first summer legal jobs. Some have judicial externships, some work at government agencies, and the majority work at law firms. But regardless of where they are employed, many students feel pres- sure to make a good impression through their work and to quickly transition from the classroom to practice. Second-year students starting as summer associates may feel even more pressure, as these posi- tions are often the most traditional way to secure permanent employment following graduation. In any case, a budding lawyer needs particular skills to succeed in a legal

highly formalized process. For example, summer associates and externs at law firms might be assigned to a particular practice group, and within that group they will work under a specific partner or partners. Other firms allow associates to float among partners. In less formal or smaller firms, a partner will simply send a group email, asking if anyone is available to help. Early on in your summer job, try to determine how work is assigned. Once you do, be proactive about seeking work from your supervisors. Ideally, stop by their offices at least weekly and ask if they need help with anything they are working on. This will demonstrate that you are eager to contribute to the firm’s practice (or judge’s chambers, agency’s mission, or

1 workplace. Unfortunately, however, it is hard to find written guidance, as these skills are often unwritten rules. This article offers law students eight tips on how to succeed at their first (or second) summer job. Because this is our “complete lawyer” issue, these tips are aimed at helping students succeed in their careers as attorneys, even beyond that first summer job. The summer job is, after all, only the beginning. As such, it is important to start thinking early on about one’s career, reputation, and goals. These eight tips will aid that process. Be proactive in seeking work and feedback. Every office or law firm has a system for work assignments. Some offices have a

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