Frequently Asked Questions
Can I only meet with one counselor? Am I assigned to one counselor?
You are welcome to meet with more than one counselor. Whether you have two or more areas of interest, or you just feel more comfortable with a particular counselor, you can choose to meet with whomever you wish. We do discourage students from asking several different counselors to review their resume.
If I am interested in a specific job sector (i.e., government), is there any one in OCPD who can help me?
YES. In addition to having a broad understanding of the legal employment market, the office has several specialists you can contact about specific career goals.
I have class all day. Is OCPD open late?
Yes, the Office of Career & Professional Development is open until 7pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. All counseling appointments must be scheduled in advance.
How do I learn about job opportunities?
The best way to get started with your individual job search is to meet with one of the counselors in OCPD. They can show you the best avenues to use when searching for a job in specific sectors. Additionally, be sure to check CareerLink, read The Docket, and sign up for practice sector group email lists (i.e., public interest, government) to receive updated information.
What if I am not sure what I want to do?
Any OCPD counselor can talk with you about general career options, review a resume and cover letter and help you determine what next steps you should take.
Will OCPD find me a job?
No, but we help teach ways to find a job. Learning how to look for a job or write a good resume is another part of your legal education. The Office of Career & Professional Development works to educate students and graduates of AU/WCL about the tools they can use in their job search, types of careers and opportunities and relevant job programs and deadlines. The best career counselor is someone who guides you through things you have to do yourself.
During the fall semester I see many students wearing suits. Why is this?
During the Fall Semester, many 2Ls and 3Ls participate in Fall Recruitment - typically large private firms and some large government agencies. Fall Recruitment is great, but only one way to job search. Only 30% of law students find jobs through any type of recruitment program. The other 70% find their jobs through individual campaigns, job postings, former employers and referrals. To learn more about your options, be sure to set up an appointment with an OCPD counselor.
Where can I find out about job opportunities, internships, etc?
- CareerLink
- The Docket
- Web sites relating to your area of interest (example - usajobs.opm.gov)
- Email group lists for your area of interest (public interest, government)
- Judicial Clerkships section of OCPD web site
- Your own research!
What resources does OCPD have for me?
- Web site - job listings, practice area information, video interviews with employers and much more
- Print library with books on everything from international careers to judicial clerkships
- Computers to type a resume, research jobs or print a cover letter
- Counselors ready to meet with you!
Do I need to attend OCPD Programs?
It is crucial that you attend those programs that pertain to your areas of interest. OCPD brings in employers and experts in different fields to help you with your job search. See the calendar of events and programs on the OCPD website. Don't miss out on these opportunities to learn and network.
