When starting your 1L year, the path to securing a summer internship can seem complex. For first-year law students (1Ls), strategizing for summer recruiting can unlock valuable experience, provide meaningful connections, and set you up for success for 2L recruiting and beyond. Although 1L recruiting is lower pressure than the subsequent rounds, it’s still crucial to take advantage of available tools, resources, and strategies to stay ahead. Platforms like Flo Recruit, particularly Forward, make a big difference in creating an efficient job search strategy. Here’s a step-by-step approach to getting ready for a 1L summer internship job search.
Start Early: The Value of Preparation
1Ls are unique in that the job search process doesn’t kick into high gear until after winter break, typically in January through March, although some 1L jobs officially open even earlier. This still offers time to lay the groundwork. Think of fall semester as an opportunity to do some initial research, understand your goals, start working on your resume and other documents, and familiarize yourself with legal employers.
Use this time to identify what you want from a summer internship. Do you want to work in BigLaw? Are you seeking experience in a smaller firm or with a public interest organization? Do you hope to develop a writing sample or gain specific skills that can boost your resume? Define your objectives early to help narrow down your options, saving you time when application season begins.
Winter Break: The Optimal Time for Research
Winter break is prime time for ramping up your job search strategy, and it’s ideal to not have the pressures of classes and schoolwork while you’re doing it. Use this period to conduct research that will give you a head start when application portals open. Flo Recruit Forward is an excellent tool for this stage—it provides easy access to research firms, apply for jobs, and even discover events where you can make connections.
With Flo Forward, you can search for firms and organizations based on your preferences, learn about their summer programs, and get direct links to application pages. Some employers offer a “quick apply” option, allowing you to apply directly through the platform, saving time and making the process more efficient. By using a tool like Flo Forward, you streamline the process of researching and tracking your target firms, helping you get ahead in a competitive process.
Set Clear Goals and Manage Expectations
The primary goals for 1L recruiting should be to secure relevant experience, build a network, and gain references for future applications. Think of this summer internship as a stepping stone for 2L recruiting and, eventually, post-graduation opportunities. Even if BigLaw is your ultimate goal, recognize that 1L BigLaw positions are very limited. However, applying to these jobs—even if they’re really reach opportunities for you—is still valuable. The process of connecting with recruiters and lawyers helps build relationships that could be beneficial in the future, especially during 2L recruiting.
Avoid comparing your strategy or progress to that of your classmates. 1L recruiting is a learning experience that helps you understand the job market and set up a sustainable approach for future opportunities. Focus on your strategy, and take advantage of the lower pressure associated with 1L recruiting.
Prepare Your Documents and Application Materials
Before you start applying, make sure your application materials are ready. Update your resume to highlight relevant coursework and experiences and remove outdated or college work that is no longer relevant. You also want to ensure you have a strong cover letter template that you can tailor to each employer. If you’re uncertain about where to start, many law schools offer resume and cover letter workshops, as well as resources to help you develop these documents.
Once you’ve updated your materials, organize your research, and list the firms or organizations where you intend to apply. Having this list prepared ahead of time can save you stress later on when you’re balancing applications with schoolwork. Remember, the 1L application period is relatively short, so having your documents ready to go is essential.
Networking and Interview Prep
After you’ve set your application strategy, focus on networking and interview preparation. Flo Forward is particularly useful for signing up for events, both virtual and in-person, hosted by law firms and other legal employers. These events are a great way to start meeting legal professionals and can help familiarize you with the firms’ culture and hiring priorities. Showing up at these events and interacting with lawyers gives you valuable networking experience, especially if interacting with strangers is outside your comfort zone. Try to push yourself, as this will put you at an advantage as there will only be more of these events as you move into 2L year.
Practicing interviews is another vital step. Start preparing by reviewing common interview questions, practicing your answers, and setting up mock interviews if your school or network offers them. This is your time to get comfortable discussing your interest in law, your goals, and your experiences. Mock interviews also allow you to receive feedback on your responses, body language, and tone, which can improve your confidence and interviewing skills. It’s always good to get as much practice ahead of your formal interviews, so that you can get more comfortable being ready for any questions that come your way.
Building Communication Skills
One often-overlooked aspect of the 1L job search is developing communication skills. Since 1L recruiting is a bit more exploratory, take this time to hone your skills. Consider ways to communicate your interest, strengths, and unique background in compelling ways. When you attend events, you can practice your introductions and engage in conversations to get more comfortable interacting with professionals.
These skills will serve you well, not only in 1L interviews, but also in future applications and networking efforts. The more confident and comfortable you become in speaking with legal professionals, the more successful you’ll be in making connections and leaving a lasting impression.
The Timeline: A Step-by-Step Guide
To stay organized, follow this recommended timeline for your 1L recruiting strategy:
- Fall Semester: Start researching potential employers and using Flo Forward to explore firms and organizations.
- November/December: Update your resume, cover letter, and other application documents. Begin creating a shortlist of employers where you’d like to apply.
- Winter Break: Use this time for deep research. Identify events, complete firm research, and register for events on Flo Forward to get a head start.
- December–March: Start applying to employers on your list, attend networking events, and set up mock interviews.
- Throughout the Spring: Continue refining your interviewing skills and stay active in networking to prepare for 2L recruiting.
Balancing Grades with Recruiting
While recruiting is important, remember that academics should remain a priority. Many employers, especially those in BigLaw, consider grades a critical factor when evaluating applicants. Balance your time by setting a schedule that allows you to focus on schoolwork while also dedicating some time to recruiting efforts, particularly during winter break.
Conclusion
In summary, the 1L recruiting process is an opportunity to gain experience, establish connections, and prepare for the future. With tools like Flo Forward, you can simplify research, streamline applications, and participate in events that build your network. Stay focused on your own goals, practice your interviewing skills, and view this process as a learning experience. By setting a clear strategy, you’ll not only set yourself up for a productive summer but also establish a solid foundation for future recruiting.
