Job Search Preparation
The first steps of your job search include the following seven essential elements!
Appointment
Schedule a thirty-minute session with a counselor who can help you find answers to your questions, review resources, and discuss your career goals.
Resume
The Career Services Resume Guide will help you get started. Review the Guide and drop off a draft of your resume in Career Services for editing.
Cover letter
The Career Services Cover Letter Guide provides sample cover letter components.
Transcript
Request an official (sealed) and unofficial copy of your USD School of Law transcript from the Records Office and make several copies. You should also have copies of your undergraduate/graduate transcripts.
Writing sample
During your first and second years of law school, your Lawyering Skills assignments will suffice. Request the Career Services Writing Samples Guide.
References
References are individuals who should know you in a professional context and be able to speak highly of you and your work. Be sure to request permission before listing a reference. Request the Career Services References Guide.
Career services online job search sites
Student Job Listings list school-year part-time and summer full- and part-time law clerk positions with law firms, government agencies, public interest organizations and other legal employers. It is updated daily and is always accessible. Log on to Symplicity to access the job listings.
Business cards
In addition to the seven essential elements listed above, you have the option to order business cards through the University. Business cards can be a useful networking tool which allows you to seamlessly provide employers and acquaintances with easily accessible contact information. Order business cards.
