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How do I start ? what necessary actions should I do ?

🧿 Hello I’m a second year student in law school and I’m willing to somewhat obtain a mentor on my career path.
I would like to expand in my designated career choice as mentioned before but I seem to be at a crossroads with what how to start , who to reach out to , how to climb more upwards in this field while yet being a student . ( I sincerely hope I was clear enough ) please do kindly reach out if any help or advice is able towards me.
Thank you 🧿.

#career-paths #education #career-path #law-school #college

Thank you comment icon Hi there - while my career field isn't law I have found attending networking events specific for those in my field helpful in making connections which could lead to securing a mentor. Also, forming a professional relationship w/ a professor you admire could turn that professor into a mentor or at least a valuable ally / resource. Its also never to early to consider joining a professional association. Angela Johnson
Thank you comment icon Thanks for responding , I really appreciate it ! , I’ll take note 📝. Rashida

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Subject: Career question for you

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Doc’s Answer

Rashida law school is an investment in your future. Make the most of every moment.

HOW TO FIND A MENTOR
Become involved with your local bar association and law society or organizations that pertain to the type of law you want to practice. Talk to law school friends and friends of friends. Go to meetings, participate in CLEs, join CBA sections, write papers, do charity work and simply meet new people. When it comes to finding mentors, seek out people you trust and feel you have a connection with. Cold call people and tell them how much you admire what they do. Don’t put too much hope on one person to save you, find a couple mentors comprise an informal board of advisors who give you advice on practical business, ethical issues and marketing. Ask yourself who do you really admire and who do you want to work with, then pick up the phone and call. They may not have the time of day for you, but if so ask them to recommend someone else. Never take no for an answer. Invariably someone knows someone who’ll say “I’d love to help you out.”

COLLABORATE WITH YOUR CLASSMATES
Your classmates (and future colleagues) bring an amazing wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Take advantage of opportunities to network and partner up. At Stetson University College of Law, students don’t compete with each other, they lift each other up through study groups, sharing notes, and camaraderie. Your law school experience will be incredibly enriched by getting to know your fellow students. Reach out. Make connections that you will treasure for many years after you graduate.

VOLUNTEER
A few short years from now, your role as an attorney will be in service to the citizens of this country. It is never too early to start contributing to the welfare of the community, and as a law student you will find many opportunities to become actively involved. Stetson University College of Law is ranked among the nation’s best for pro bono service. “If you know what type of law you will practice after graduation and passing the bar, my advice is to take advantage of as many internships/clinics offered and to look for outside opportunities to work or volunteer in an office practicing that type of law.”

GET CONNECTED WITH THE FACULTY
If you choose to limit your interaction with our faculty to only the classroom, you might be missing out on a priceless opportunity. The diversity of our faculty's professional legal experiences cover the gamut of specialties. Further, our law professors earned their JDs from law schools from across the country with many teaching at other universities prior to joining our prestigious team. Engage them! Learn about your future profession by asking questions that casebooks don’t cover, like best hiring practices, investigative tools, or tips to operating your own practice. Explore the many roads to your future by striking up vibrant discussion with an experienced legal veteran.

Rashida these connections could last you a lifetime. Embrace opportunities to meet with your fellow students in casual social settings. You may meet an excellent study partner or future business partner.

I hope this was Helpful Rashida
Thank you comment icon Thank You Ro, for your continued support. There are two types of people in this world; those who see things happen and those who make things happen. Doc Frick
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Ro’s Answer

First off, congrats on surviving your 1st year! It does get easier after this, so now is the perfect time for you to start expanding your network. The previous answers here are fantastic, so I would definitely act upon them.

During my time at law school, two things I took advantage of were 1) school's career services, and 2) friends/network. Both can find you internships, opportunities, and mentors. It's pretty common knowledge that law school students are hunting for jobs after 2nd year, so no need to hide your intention - however, do it professionally and with tact. My first internship at a court was set up through a friend that was the prior summer intern, so it's good to use your resources wisely. Career Services connected me with people to call and inquire about positions, which was helpful.

Another resource are your professors. They are specialists in their subjects and will most likely have connections to opportunities. Finally, seek out volunteer positions as well in industries/fields that you like- you can find out a lot about yourself! Best of luck to you future esquire!
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Frank’s Answer

Execute a search for "career coach" or "career counselor" and you should be able to find some great options in your geographical area. A deeper dive might be more fruitful, though. What if you located recent retirees of your profession? They have so much knowledge and advice to teach still.
Thank you comment icon Thank you SO much for that reply ! Rashida
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Anthony’s Answer

Hello Rashida! I’d be happy to try and help you. I would highly recommend using LinkedIn if you don’t already do that. A lot of professionals are on that platform and it can be a great way to reach out and make initial connections. During this pandemic I myself have sent messages to people on there that I do not know personally, but I share connections with them and they are in a field or job that I aspire to obtain. Not everyone will respond to you, but there will be those who do and are willing to discuss their careers and offer advise. I would also recommend looking for networking opportunities, such as local clubs or events that allow you to introduce yourself to industry professionals and make connections.
Thank you comment icon Thank you SO much Anthony! I highly appreciated your response, I’ll look into it. Rashida
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