Just a few weeks ago, the Class of 2027 began their journey at Harvard Law School. To help inspire and prepare them for the road ahead, the Office of Public Interest Advising (OPIA) is recruiting members of the HLS public interest alumni community to mentor 1Ls who are participating in our Public Service Leaders (PSL) Program. Our hope is to match PSL students with alumni mentors who share similar career interests and/or who have navigated similar challenges.
We know you have much wisdom to share about your experience as a law student and as a public interest lawyer, and hope that you will be willing to volunteer. In particular, we aim to recruit a pool of alumni mentors that reflects the diversity of our student body, and especially encourage BIPOC, LGBTQ and first generation alumni to participate. Based on an initial survey of the class of 2027, there seems to be a high volume of interest in government service, so we particularly encourage those with a background in government to register. That said, alumni mentors of all backgrounds will be needed and are strongly encouraged to participate.
What is the commitment?
We expect the time commitment will be relatively minimal. In addition to an initial introductory conversation, all mentors are encouraged have at least one additional point of contact per semester for the 2024-2025 academic year. Mentees will receive guidance emphasizing the importance of being respectful of their mentor’s time and professional obligations. Topics to discuss with your mentee may include academic challenges, summer internship searches, navigating identity as a law student, making 1L year feel relevant, managing stress and other topics of mutual interest.
How do I sign up?
Please take a moment to fill out the online registration form to indicate your willingness to participate as an HLS alumni mentor. Note that some volunteers may not be matched if there is not a student with similar interests.
Thank you for considering this request! If you have any questions please contact us.