Monica Sandu '24
Production Editor
As the snow thaws over Grounds that come back to life with the arrival of the spring semester, some of you are experiencing your first ever law school classes without your trusty 1L section. Just when you thought you’d conquered your fear of cold calls, casebooks, and 8:00 a.m. classes without coffee, you suddenly find yourself thrust into the world with few, if any, other 1Ls around you. Now that add/drop is over, it is time for this 3L to share some sage wisdom as you navigate this new, and often unexpected, side of 1L.
First, realize that you’re going to be in classes with spring semester 3Ls. That alone should make you feel better. But even knowing that the curve was safe, one of the most challenging things I encountered as a 1L was the sense of isolation that came with being in a class where it seemed like everybody knew everybody, and I didn’t know anyone. While it’s certainly easier said than done, this can be a chance to make connections with 2Ls and 3Ls. Some may have already taken classes you’re interested in for the upcoming semesters (and have the outlines to prove it). Even if they haven’t, simply talking to them can be a way to combat imposter syndrome – they’re often as just as confused as you are, if not more.[1]
You may also be able to seek out fellow 1Ls who are in other sections, especially those with whom you don’t have classes otherwise. It’s a good middle ground between meeting new people and having someone who can fully sympathize with your LRW oral argument stress. Still, don’t feel like you have to turn every lecture into a networking event. Spring provides many opportunities for extra-curricular socializing. You have Feb Club and Barrister’s Ball in February; the Libel Show, whether you’re part of the cast, the crew, or the crowd;[2] countless student group events; and the tried and tested method of joining the always-prestigious and ever-welcoming Law Weekly.[3]
Next, the 1L job application process is in full swing. You’ve certainly heard this many times before, but Career Services will be your best friend through this process. Their resources are at your disposal, and their job is to help you find a job. Many students use their 1L summer to explore a particular field they may be interested in, while others want to gain general experience in the practice of law. Some use it as an opportunity to experience public service law before going into the private sector, or to do private work before becoming a public service lawyer. Spending some time pinpointing what you want to get out of the summer is crucial, not only for targeting applications and getting interviews, but for your personal fulfillment and wellbeing.
While it’s a good idea to have a general sense of the direction you want to pursue, you don’t have to know exactly what specialty within the law you are going to go into, nor are you expected to already be an expert in your area of interest. Potential employers understand that you are a law student. While you should definitely research the firms, programs, and practice areas you apply for, you should also demonstrate your dedication, your passion for knowledge, and all those things that make you someone with whom others will want to work. These will also help you decide where you see yourself working.
There will inevitably be some rejections. But these rejections are not personal failings – it’s just the nature of the application process. Be sure to work with Career Services to navigate your applications, find open positions, prepare for interviews, and draft cover letters and resumes. Communicate so that your concerns can be addressed as soon as possible.
Lastly, and perhaps most crucially, be kind to yourself. Try to not treat your milestones as stepping stones. Celebrate your accomplishments by recognizing them for what they are – accomplishments, not just meeting expectations.[4] Hold tight to the friends you make, and be one another’s support system. This semester may have fewer breaks than the fall, but it goes by much more quickly. And although 1Ls always lose in the Court of Petty Appeals, we at the Law Weekly still want you to see you succeed.[5] Good luck out there, kids.
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ms7mn@virginia.edu
[1] Bonus points if you watch them online shop through an entire lecture.
[2] Be sure to come on 1L night to see all your favorite professors (congenially) roast you in song form!
[3] Every Monday at 5:45 p.m. in SL279. We have free pizza and the satisfaction of winning an ANGus beef with VLR.
[4] For example, getting through an interview that made you extremely anxious is something to be proud of, regardless of whether or not it results in a callback.
[5] Or at least bring us a COPA suit funny enough to rule in your favor.