Expanding Legal Horizons

3Ls share Washington, D.C., externship experience

By Ahmanielle Hall

Students in the market for practical work experience may want to look outside of Los Angeles for opportunities. Recently, a panel of 3L students shared their Washington DC externship experiences with 1Ls and 2Ls. The panelists provided insight into how they found their positions and how they benefited from the jobs in the long term.  

Jen Ehrlich '13 and Alex Cohen '13

The student panel included Alex Cohen ‘13, extern at the Department of Justice, antitrust division; Jen Ehrlich ‘13, extern at the Department of Justice, criminal division; Jamie Heine ‘13, extern at the Securities and Exchange Commission, division of enforcement; Jasmyn Jones ‘13, extern at the Department of Justice, civil rights division; and Michael Santos ‘13, extern at the Health and Human Services, office of civil rights.

Washington, DC externships are best suited for 3Ls because they have honed their practice skills though clinics and have taken the necessary core classes.  There are opportunities for semester long and summer programs, both of which offer networking events and mentor programs.  

Heine ’13 spent her 2L summer as an extern at the Securities and Exchange Commission and hopes to return to DC.

“I wanted to plant roots in DC and make connections while in law school,” Heine said.  

When beginning the job search, applicants should review each position’s academic requirements to ensure they comply with USC Gould’s graduation requirements. Once they have determined where to apply, it is vital to keep track of deadlines. Applicants are judged by their grades and work experience. Though often not required, a strong letter of recommendation may work in the applicant’s favor.

Jasmyn Jones '13

Panelists advised students to apply to multiple organizations. To optimize chances of selection, craft a different cover letter for each position.
 
“Make yourself marketable and sell your own skills,” Santos said.

However, students should make their travel plans in advance if possible. The process of moving and renting apartments across the country can be challenging, and obtaining security clearance, necessary to work at many government agencies, can take months.

To minimize costs, the Public Interest Law Foundation offers a small number of grants and other agencies offer outside scholarships. The Career Services Office is also able to help connect current students with alumni in DC. The panelists reaffirmed the value of networking.

“There are so many applicants for every spot that it helps to know someone,” Jones said.

For more information on how to begin the search, contact the Career Services Office.