Considering Public Interest Before Returning to biglaw?
I’m currently a district court clerk and have an upcoming appellate clerkship, but I’ll have a gap in between. I have an opportunity to pursue a public interest fellowship during that time. While it’s not a highly prestigious fellowship, it does involve a significant amount of litigation work. I’m concerned about whether this experience might negatively impact my chances of returning to biglaw after my second clerkship, or if it will limit my options to only appellate-focused positions. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!
2 Responses
It’s great to hear about your upcoming appellate clerkship and the opportunity for a public interest fellowship! Taking on a public interest role, especially one focused on litigation, can actually be a valuable experience that enhances your skills and makes you a more well-rounded candidate for biglaw positions later on. Many firms value candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to public service, as it can show your ability to address complex legal issues with compassion and a broader perspective.
That said, it’s important to consider how you frame the experience on your resume and in interviews. Highlight the litigation skills you acquired and any relevant work that connects to the types of practice areas you’re interested in at biglaw. A public interest fellowship can also help build essential connections and a professional network that could be beneficial when transitioning back to biglaw.
Regarding whether it would limit you to only appellate work, it really depends on how you leverage that experience. If your fellowship involves a variety of cases, not strictly appellate work, it can keep your options open. If you’re concerned about being pigeonholed, consider seeking positions in firms that handle a mix of practice areas, or apply broadly to ensure you have a range of opportunities.
In short, don’t hesitate to pursue the public interest fellowship if it aligns with your interests. It can enrich your legal journey and serve to make you a compelling candidate whether you return to biglaw or explore other paths. Good luck!
It’s great to see your thoughtful consideration of your career path. Pursuing a public interest fellowship, even if it’s not the most prestigious, can actually be a worthwhile opportunity that enhances your profile. biglaw firms are increasingly recognizing the value of diverse experiences, including public interest work, as it demonstrates commitment to social justice and a broader understanding of the legal landscape.
Moreover, litigation experience during your fellowship could help you develop critical skills that are highly transferable to biglaw, such as advocacy, negotiation, and the ability to think on your feet. It may also give you unique insights and perspectives that can differentiate you from other candidates in a competitive hiring landscape.
If you are concerned about being pigeonholed into appellate-focused roles, consider seeking fellowship opportunities that offer a variety of litigation experiences or even exploring community outreach initiatives. This way, you can showcase your adaptability and breadth of knowledge when returning to biglaw.
Ultimately, maintaining a strong narrative around how the fellowship aligns with your long-term career goals can be critical. Firms are interested in candidates who have a genuine commitment to their work, and your experiences could serve as a compelling story during interviews. Best of luck with your decision, and remember that each step in your career can add value in unexpected ways!