How to Get on Law Firm Radars Before OCI Even Starts

 
For many law students, On-Campus Interviewing (OCI) feels like the main event in the legal recruiting process. But what most students don’t realize is this: by the time OCI begins, many law firms have already started identifying who they want to interview. If you're waiting until OCI to introduce yourself to firms, you may already be behind.

The good news? You don’t need to wait for OCI to get noticed. In fact, proactive students can get on law firm radars months in advance—and doing so dramatically increases their chances of landing interviews, callbacks, and ultimately, offers.

Here’s how to get noticed by law firms before OCI starts and position yourself as a top candidate early in the process.
 

Why Getting on Law Firm Radars Early Matters

By the time OCI begins, many law firms have already started identifying top candidates based on 1L performance, networking events, and early outreach. Getting noticed before the formal process starts gives you a competitive edge, especially at firms with limited interview slots.

Early visibility shows initiative, signals genuine interest, and helps you build relationships with recruiters and attorneys who may later advocate for your candidacy. In short, being proactive puts you ahead before OCI even opens its doors.
 

1. Participate in 1L Firm Events and Receptions

One of the easiest and most effective ways to get on a law firm’s radar before OCI is by attending their 1L events and receptions. These programs are specifically designed to introduce students to the firm’s people, culture, and practice areas—long before official interviews begin. They’re not just about networking—they’re about visibility.

Firms use these events to:

• Identify standout students early
• Gauge genuine interest
• Build rapport with potential candidates
• Start informal pre-OCI evaluations

By showing up prepared and engaging meaningfully, you demonstrate professionalism and initiative, which can influence who gets selected for screeners during OCI.

Types of Events to Look Out For

• Firm-hosted receptions (often virtual or in-person on campus)
• Coffee chats and small-group meetups with associates and recruiters
• Panel discussions on practice areas or firm life
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) roundtables
• Resume workshops or mock interview sessions co-hosted with career services

These aren’t just social events—they’re soft recruiting touchpoints. Firms remember who attends, who asks thoughtful questions, and who follows up afterward.

How to Maximize These Events

• Do your homework: Research the firm beforehand—know their major practice areas, recent news, and presence in your region.
• Prepare 1–2 questions that show curiosity and awareness (e.g., “How does your firm support early associate development?”).
• Introduce yourself with confidence: Share your name, law school, and interest in the firm or specific area of law.
• Follow up with a short thank-you email or LinkedIn message to someone you met.

“I attended a virtual 1L reception hosted by a firm I liked. I introduced myself, asked about their litigation training program, and followed up afterward. That attorney ended up advocating for me during OCI—even before I submitted my bid.”
— 2L, T14 Law School


Firms invest time and money in these early events because they want to build relationships before the formal hiring season. Attending—even if you’re just learning—signals that you’re serious about your legal career and interested in their firm. Show up, be prepared, and use these events as your first impression. It could be the one that gets you an interview later.
 

2. Apply for 1L Diversity Fellowships or Early Access Programs

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If you’re looking to get on a law firm’s radar early, applying for 1L diversity fellowships or early access programs is one of the most direct and impactful ways to do it. These programs are offered by many top law firms and are designed to identify, support, and recruit high-potential students from historically underrepresented backgrounds in the legal profession.

Even if you’re not ultimately selected for the program, applying still puts your name in front of recruiters. It can lead to future engagement, invitations to events, or special consideration during OCI.

What These Programs Offer

1L diversity fellowships often include:

• A paid summer internship or a split summer between a firm and a corporate client
• Formal mentorship with attorneys at the firm
• Pre-OCI interview opportunities or resume fast-tracking
• Access to professional development programs and networking events
• A possible pathway to 2L summer associate positions (and eventual full-time offers)

In short, these programs are more than just internships—they’re early pipelines into BigLaw and other competitive employers.

Top Fellowships and Programs to Consider

• LCLD 1L Scholars Program
• Skadden 1L Scholars Program
• Sidley 1L Diversity Fellowship
• Kirkland & Ellis 1L Scholars Program
• Gibson Dunn 1L Diversity Program
• Covington 1L Diversity Fellowship
• Mayer Brown 1L Fellowship Program

Each firm sets its criteria, deadlines, and program details, so start researching and preparing your applications early, ideally by late fall or early winter of your 1L year.

How to Strengthen Your Application

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)
• Share your personal story or background if applicable—these programs are about more than grades
• Emphasize professionalism, motivation, and long-term goals
• Request letters of recommendation if needed, and give your recommenders ample time

“I didn’t get into the diversity program I applied for, but the recruiter remembered me during OCI and specifically said she appreciated my application and cover letter. I ended up with a callback.”
— 2L, Midwestern Law School


Diversity fellowships and early access programs aren’t just about checking a box—they’re strategic tools for law firms to engage with promising students long before OCI. Whether or not you’re selected, applying demonstrates initiative, commitment, and serious interest. That alone can put you ahead of your peers once the interview season begins.
 

3. Network with Alumni and Associates in Advance

One of the most effective ways to get on a law firm’s radar before OCI is to build relationships with people who already work there, especially alumni of your law school and junior associates who were in your shoes just a year or two ago. Even if you don’t have personal connections, you can create them through thoughtful, professional outreach.

Alumni and associates are often the “eyes and ears” for hiring committees. When they meet a motivated, well-prepared student before the formal recruiting process, they may recommend that student for an interview or mention them to the recruiting team. This kind of internal referral or positive impression can be a game-changer when OCI decisions are made.

Why This Works

• ✅ Alumni often feel invested in helping students from their alma mater
• ✅ Associates know what firms are looking for in candidates and can offer insight
• ✅ A strong interaction can lead to an internal referral, boosting your visibility in OCI selection
• ✅ Even a brief call or conversation helps you stand out from the pack

“I reached out to a junior associate who went to my law school. We had a 15-minute Zoom chat, and months later, she flagged my name to the recruiting team before OCI. That helped me land an interview.”
— 2L, T25 Law School

How to Find People to Contact

• Search LinkedIn for attorneys at your target firms who are alumni of your undergrad or law school
• Use your law school’s alumni directory or career services alumni database
• Attend firm-sponsored panels or student organization events and follow up with speakers
• Join relevant practice areas or diversity-focused student groups that host attorney guests

Tips for Outreach

• Keep your message short, polite, and personalized
• Don’t ask for a job—ask for insight or a quick conversation
• Express genuine interest in the firm and curiosity about their experience

Sample message:

Hi [Name],
I'm a 1L at [Law School] and saw that you're an alum currently working at [Firm]. I'm exploring [practice area] and would really appreciate the chance to hear about your path and your experience at the firm. Would you be open to a brief 15-minute conversation sometime this month?
Thank you so much, and I hope to stay in touch.
Best, [Your Name]

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You don’t need to “know people” to start knowing people. Reaching out with professionalism and authenticity can help you build meaningful connections, and those connections can put you on a firm’s radar long before the formal interview process begins. It’s not about asking for favors—it’s about starting real conversations that may turn into real opportunities.
 

4. Polish Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile Early

Before OCI begins, and often well before you even apply, law firm recruiters and attorneys may already be looking you up, especially if you've attended their events, connected on LinkedIn, or submitted your resume for early programs or resume drops. That means your application materials and online presence need to be sharp, consistent, and professional from day one.

A well-polished resume and LinkedIn profile can make you stand out even before interviews are scheduled, and demonstrate that you're serious about your legal career.

Why It Matters

• ✅ First impressions are often made on paper or online, not in person
• ✅ Firms may use early resume drops, alumni referrals, or LinkedIn searches to identify interview candidates
• ✅ Professional materials reflect well on your communication and organizational skills
• ✅ A strong profile helps support and amplify your networking and outreach efforts

“I spoke to a recruiter who had checked out my LinkedIn after I attended a firm panel. She mentioned it during our conversation, and said she appreciated that it was professional and complete.”
— 2L, East Coast Law School

How to Polish Your Resume

• Keep it to one page unless you have substantial prior work experience
• Lead with your education, including GPA (if above a 3.3), honors, and key law school involvement
• Highlight legal experience first, even if it's limited to research assistant work or clinics
• Use active verbs like "researched," "drafted," "assisted," and "analyzed"
• Tailor your content to reflect skills valued in law firm environments: writing, research, attention to detail, and professionalism
• Proofread meticulously—even one typo can hurt your chances

 
OCI may feel like it’s months away, but recruiters are already forming impressions based on the resumes and profiles they see now. By polishing your materials early, you show that you’re prepared, detail-oriented, and ready to engage with the profession. A strong resume and LinkedIn profile can do the talking for you, even before the interviews begin.
 

5. Join Law Student Organizations with Firm Sponsorships

If you want to get noticed by law firms before OCI, one of the smartest and most organic ways is to actively participate in law student organizations that are sponsored by or partnered with law firms. These organizations often host events, panels, mentorship programs, and networking receptions where firm attorneys and recruiters are present, sometimes exclusively so.

By joining and engaging with these groups, you’re not only building your skills and network—you’re putting yourself in direct contact with decision-makers before the formal interview process even starts.

Why This Strategy Works

• ✅ Sponsored orgs often have direct relationships with law firms, giving you insider access
• ✅ Students involved in leadership or planning roles get face time with attorneys and recruiters
• ✅ Participation signals your commitment to professional development, diversity, or specific legal interests
• ✅ These organizations often receive invitations to exclusive firm events, giving you early visibility

“I joined BLSA and helped coordinate a networking event with a few sponsoring firms. I got to meet attorneys in a smaller setting, and two of them remembered me during OCI.”
— 2L, Southern Law School

Types of Organizations to Consider

Look for groups that align with your interests, identity, or career goals and are known to attract firm sponsorship:

• Diversity-Focused Organizations:
  • Black Law Students Association (BLSA)
  • Latinx Law Students Association (LLSA)
  • Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA)
  • South Asian Law Students Association (SALSA)
  • OutLaw (LGBTQ+ law students)
  • First-Generation Professionals (FGP)
• Practice-Area Specific Orgs:
  • Business Law Society
  • Intellectual Property Law Society
  • Environmental Law Society
  • Criminal Law Society
• Women’s Legal Organizations:
  • Women’s Law Caucus / Women in Law
  • Ms. JD Chapters

These groups often co-host firm-sponsored events such as lunch talks, panel discussions, firm visits, mock interviews, and diversity receptions.

How to Maximize Your Involvement

• Don’t just be a passive member—volunteer for leadership roles, event planning, or committee work
• Attend firm-sponsored events regularly and introduce yourself to the attorneys present
• Follow up with speakers or attendees you meet at events via LinkedIn or email
• Mention your involvement in your resume, cover letter, and interviews—it shows engagement and initiative

Joining firm-sponsored law student organizations allows you to meet attorneys in low-pressure environments, demonstrate your professionalism, and build authentic relationships that can lead to interviews and offers down the road. It’s a powerful, often-overlooked way to get on a firm’s radar early, while also building your community and skill set.
 

6. Ask Career Services for Resume Drops or Pre-OCI Outreach Lists

Your law school’s career services office doesn’t just help with mock interviews and resume reviews—they often facilitate early access to employers through resume drops, pre-OCI interview requests, and exclusive outreach lists. Many firms request candidate resumes weeks or even months before OCI officially begins, especially if they have longstanding partnerships with your school.

By asking your career office about these early submission opportunities, you can get your resume in front of recruiters before the bidding even opens.

Ways Career Services Can Help:

• Share lists of firms open to early applications or pre-screening
• Submit your resume to employers participating in pre-OCI resume drops
• Connect you with alumni or firms actively seeking students from your class
• Offer school-sponsored introductions or early interview slots for specific markets

Taking advantage of these early options shows initiative—and may secure you an interview before the formal process even begins.
 

7. Engage on LinkedIn and Legal Platforms

While most law students treat LinkedIn as a static online resume, savvy students use it as a dynamic tool to engage with law firms, recruiters, and the broader legal community, well before OCI begins. A thoughtful online presence not only helps you stay informed but also keeps you visible to the people who matter in the hiring process.

In a profession built on credibility, writing, and relationships, engaging strategically on platforms like LinkedIn can help you stand out early.

Why This Works

• ✅ Law firm recruiters and associates often check LinkedIn before or after meeting you at an event
• ✅ Liking, commenting on, or sharing legal content keeps your name in their feed
• ✅ A strong profile combined with consistent engagement signals professionalism and genuine interest
• ✅ It helps you build a network, especially when you don’t have pre-existing legal connections

“After commenting on a firm’s DEI panel recap post, a recruiter reached out and invited me to a virtual networking event. I hadn’t even applied yet.”
— 1L, T30 Law School

Simple Ways to Engage Effectively

• Follow your target firms and like their posts about community initiatives, practice wins, or attorney spotlights
• Comment professionally on firm events, articles, or career updates (e.g., “Great to see [Firm Name] hosting events for first-gen law students—thank you for supporting diversity in the profession.”)
• Share your own experience occasionally—attending a firm event, joining a clinic, or reflecting on law school growth
• Congratulate alumni or connections on career milestones or promotions

You don’t have to post constantly, but a few thoughtful actions each month can build visibility over time.

Other Legal Platforms to Watch

While LinkedIn is the most active professional space, also consider:

• Firm websites and blogs for insight and updates
• NALP Directory for recruiting info and hiring timelines
• Law student forums and Slack groups for peer networking and job market trends

You don’t need to go viral to get noticed—you just need to show up consistently and professionally. Thoughtful engagement on LinkedIn signals that you’re plugged in, aware of the profession, and proactive in your job search. It’s a subtle but powerful way to stay top-of-mind with recruiters and attorneys before they start reviewing OCI applications.

 

See Related Articles: Top 10 Things Law Students Should Do in Their 1L Year to Get BigLaw Offers Essential Strategies for U.S. Law Students to Navigate Law School and Launch a Successful Legal Career Proven Strategies to Break Into BigLaw: Your 2025 Blueprint for Success

 

Final Thought: OCI Isn’t the Start—It’s the Spotlight

OCI is when interviews happen, but decisions start forming long before that. If you want to stand out, don’t wait for a formal invitation. Be proactive, build early relationships, and put yourself in the best possible position before the competition even begins.

By taking these steps early, you’ll show firms that you’re not just another applicant—you’re a prepared, polished, and genuinely interested future attorney.