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published August 02, 2013
Andrea Gelfuso
I have been an environmental lawyer for 20 years. I also teach environmental law to undergrads and every class they ask how to enter the profession. The most important thing to know is that it's insane to borrow your way through law school, and the days of walking into a great job are over. Even if you're financially capable of repaying law school loans, a huge debt mortgages your brain and shackles your future. So be aggressive about applying for financial aid, internships, and jobs available to law students.
I invite guest speakers from many areas of elaw to advise my students about how they found jobs. Every elawyer emphasizes that a science background is helpful. A water lawyer notes that internships introduced her to people she has known and worked with for her entire career, so it is critical to make a good impression - you will be remembered.
Also, before you apply and while in school, network in areas of law that interest you. An obscure but invaluable networking opportunity arises from attending rulemaking hearings of State Boards and Commissions who oversee regulation. Whether the Board regulates insurance, air quality or probation, most of the important players from the regulated community and public interest groups attend those hearings. So, if you're interested in the air quality impacts of fracking, attend meetings of your State Oil and Gas Commission and the Air Quality Commission. Now you have something substantive to say on a law school application, and in an interview, besides "I want to practice law to save the world." Understanding how law and regulation work in the real world will help you get a job in the real world. How do I know that works? It worked for me….
Andrea Gelfuso Goetz
J.D. 1990, Sturm College of Law
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