As you explore careers in the private sector, early in your 1L year you will be conducting a 1L summer job search at the same time as exploring and applying to firms for 2L summer associate positions. Below, find core guidance and resources for your application materials and your job searches for 1L summer jobs, 2L law firm positions, and post-graduate clerkships. Alumni and LLM students will also find private sector job search and application guidance and resources below.
Application Materials for J.D. Students
Your application materials should pitch your candidacy through a compelling narrative that showcases your unique skills. Your application materials should pitch your candidacy through a compelling narrative that showcases your unique skills.
Job Search during 2L and 3L Year
Private sector job searches conducted during 2L or 3L year typically involve a multi-pronged approach that will vary greatly by student. We encourage you to meet with an OCS Adviser to develop your plan.
Application Materials and Job Search for LL.M. Students
Application Materials and Job Search for Alumni
Updates from Hire Ground
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OCS Resume & Cover Letter Workshops
As you prepare your legal resume, a great first step is attending Friday’s OCS 1L Resume and Cover Letter Workshop. These workshops are an easy way to get your private sector application documents ready in a small setting where you can ask questions and have your documents reviewed. The next workshop will be this Friday,
September 22, 2026
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Cover Letters
Some 1Ls have never written a cover letter, and many simply dread writing one. Writing a cover letter does not have to be intimidating. Start by reviewing our Cover Letters for the Private Sector webpage to simplify the process of writing a strong letter. The page includes a breakdown of the cover letter structure as
September 15, 2026
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2028 & 2029 Clerkship Hiring Underway
3Ls, if you are interested in clerking in 2028 or 2029 and not already plugged into the application process, now’s a good time to join, get organized, and perhaps start applying. Our tracking of judges’ hiring status indicates many are acting already, although of course others will act later. (That’s on top of the many
September 10, 2026
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Next Week: Law Firm Recruiting Info Sessions
If you are considering law firm recruitment for your 2L summer, be sure to attend your section’s Law Firm Recruiting Information Session next week. We will tell you everything you need to know about the process and timelines and answer any questions you might have.
September 10, 2026
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1L Careers Timeline
As you have likely heard, the timeline for recruiting, especially in the private sector, has accelerated in recent years. Taking steps early in 1L year and spreading the tasks throughout the semester helps make the process manageable and sets you up for success. Use the 1L timeline to see what actions to take for applying
September 8, 2026