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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What Should I Be Doing Now?
Your primary focus should remain on your academics, but on the career front, check in with the 1L Career Timeline to make sure you are on track. Now is a good time to do the following if you have not yet done so:
October 6, 2026
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Choosing Geographic Markets
By the end of this month, we recommend you try to have a good idea of which geographic market and practice area(s) you hope to target for your 2L summer and have some familiarity with the employers in the market of your choice. In addition to reviewing the Legal Market Information section of our website,
October 6, 2026
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Early Law Firm Application Portals
Because many law firms will soon be opening their applications for summer 2028 positions, we understand that some students may feel pressure to act immediately. However, applying early is not in your best interest for this application process. Instead, review and follow the timeline set out in the 2L Summer Recruiting Roadmap where you will
October 6, 2026
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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