FIRST YEAR STUDENTS
(0 to 30 Credits)

Throughout your law school experience, you should be planning and preparing for your legal career. The Career Services Office can and should be utilized by you as you progress towards your Juris Doctor degree.

During your first year, it is important that you concentrate on your studies. Law school involves significant challenges and requires that you think in new ways. You will be required to read extensively, analyze the material you read, and articulate your own thoughts in a logical and coherent manner. Attendance and class preparation will be more important than ever.

As you learn more about legal careers, you will find that attorneys act in a wide variety of capacities and work in many different settings. As your career plans develop, you may find that your educational goals change as well. Use your first year to familiarize yourself with the resources of the Career Services Office, particularly those related to the exploration of career options available to those with a law degree.

First year students should pay particular attention to the following items:

SCHOOL:

• Aim for outstanding academic performance.
• Attend the Organization Fair to meet the Career Services Office staff.
• Determine which student activities, organizations, or memberships would benefit your professional interests and job search - sign up and participate.
• Participate in First Year Moot Court.

CAREER EXPLORATION:

• Visit the Career Services Office to familiarize yourself with resources available to you.
• Schedule an appointment with a Career Services Advisor to begin career planning.
• Begin exploring career options and interests.
• Start thinking about the type of work or professional environment you prefer.
• Attend on-campus career programs.

JOB SEARCH:

• Examine the law student bar registration requirements in the state you plan to practice. Some states require you register and pay a fee during your first 90 days of law school.
• Attend the Career Services Office November 1^st Introductory Program. Begin updating and revising your resume. Learn to write effective cover letters.
• Explore volunteer opportunities through the Cooley Volunteer Corps (CVC) to research potential legal career settings.
• If you are on the term-off schedule, begin exploring summer employment options.