3 answers
Riya
Student
Southlake, Texas
7
Questions
Asked
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What are good high school internships for an aspiring lawyer?
I am eager to explore political science, law, and research opportunities, where I can apply my skills, gain valuable experience, and contribute meaningfully.
As a dedicated junior with a passion for political science and law, I'm driven by a profound interest in understanding legal systems. I aspire to leverage this passion into an undergraduate degree in political science, ultimately leading to pursuing a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
I am resourceful and determined, consistently demonstrating strong analytical capabilities and a robust work ethic. My organizational skills and ability to multitask efficiently enable me to excel in both academic and extracurricular endeavors. Collaboration is one of my strengths; I thrive in team environments and am committed to leading with positivity and integrity.
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3 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1880
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Riya !
I would be happy to give you some advice about volunteer work so that you may put your skills and interests to work and gain meaningful experience.
I would suggest that you explore the City of Southlake volunteer website for which I have left the link for you below. There is also the Texas Advocacy Project and their Teen Ambassadors of Hope Program (link is below). There may be an opportunity to volunteer as an intake person for Houston Volunteer Lawyers'. That would be screening callers so that the attorneys know about the case before they call the client back. Also try to connect with Pro Bono Texas and Legal Aid of North West Texas.
If you want to do something online, you can join Law for Kids which features virtual escape rooms, an opportunity to give your opinion on current events and issues and laws, legal resources, contests and events and classes in civics. It's based in Arizona so it may be good to utilize anything on there that would teach about federal law. I think that any type of volunteer work would be a good experience for you. Also check with your local City/Town Hall and Chamber of Commerce for possible volunteer work in places connected to political science or law.
The thing about Internships is that not everyone offers them and when they do, they are paying jobs for those who have experience. This is why I always suggest volunteer work. Internships are something a place gives you while Volunteering is something you offer a place and there's more of a tendency for the place to say yes to volunteer work. Once you are in college, student internships should be announced and offered by your major department or one of your professors. Also consider applying for Work Study when you apply for Federal Financial Aid for college. By having Work Study, you can most likely get a job in the Political Science Department or something connected to Law at your college on campus.
You can start doing Research on your own now. I have left a link for you below for some websites that can help you write your research. This will be a wonderful experience and even though you've done it independently, you should include it on your resume.
I hope that this and the resources below prove to be helpful and I wish you all the best !
VOLUNTEER SOUTHLAKE https://www.cityofsouthlake.com/97/Volunteer-Southlake
TEXAS ADVOCACY PROJECT https://www.texasadvocacyproject.org/volunteer TEEN AMBASSADORES OF HOPE https://www.texasadvocacyproject.org/TAoH
HOUSTON VOLUNTEER LAWYERS FOR POSSIBLE INTAKE VOLUNTEER POSITION https://www.makejusticehappen.org/
ONLINE LAW EXPERIENCE https://lawforkids.org/ HOW TO DO LEGAL RESEARCH https://www.clio.com/blog/how-to-do-legal-research/
LEGAL RESEARCH RESOURCES https://www.agilelaw.com/blog/13-free-sites-to-do-your-legal-research/
I would be happy to give you some advice about volunteer work so that you may put your skills and interests to work and gain meaningful experience.
I would suggest that you explore the City of Southlake volunteer website for which I have left the link for you below. There is also the Texas Advocacy Project and their Teen Ambassadors of Hope Program (link is below). There may be an opportunity to volunteer as an intake person for Houston Volunteer Lawyers'. That would be screening callers so that the attorneys know about the case before they call the client back. Also try to connect with Pro Bono Texas and Legal Aid of North West Texas.
If you want to do something online, you can join Law for Kids which features virtual escape rooms, an opportunity to give your opinion on current events and issues and laws, legal resources, contests and events and classes in civics. It's based in Arizona so it may be good to utilize anything on there that would teach about federal law. I think that any type of volunteer work would be a good experience for you. Also check with your local City/Town Hall and Chamber of Commerce for possible volunteer work in places connected to political science or law.
The thing about Internships is that not everyone offers them and when they do, they are paying jobs for those who have experience. This is why I always suggest volunteer work. Internships are something a place gives you while Volunteering is something you offer a place and there's more of a tendency for the place to say yes to volunteer work. Once you are in college, student internships should be announced and offered by your major department or one of your professors. Also consider applying for Work Study when you apply for Federal Financial Aid for college. By having Work Study, you can most likely get a job in the Political Science Department or something connected to Law at your college on campus.
You can start doing Research on your own now. I have left a link for you below for some websites that can help you write your research. This will be a wonderful experience and even though you've done it independently, you should include it on your resume.
I hope that this and the resources below prove to be helpful and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Thank you so much, Michelle! I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your valuable insights and the effort you dedicated to providing me with your response. I will explore the opportunities you have given. This is so helpful, thank you.
Riya
You are very welcome, Riya !
Michelle M.
Reema Patel
sales associate
86
Answers
Greenwood, South Carolina
Updated
Reema’s Answer
Considering your passion for political science and law, a variety of internships could serve as a stepping stone into the legal world, offering you priceless experience and knowledge:
Law Firm Internships: Numerous law firms welcome high school students who have a keen interest in law to join them as interns or clerks. Here, you could get hands-on experience in legal research, document drafting, and even get the opportunity to accompany lawyers during court hearings or client meetings.
Courthouse Internships: Some courthouses offer high school students the chance to intern as courthouse assistants or clerks. This could be your window into the diverse facets of the legal system, allowing you to witness trials first-hand and gain a deeper understanding of courtroom procedures.
Government Internships: Working as an intern in local, state, or federal government offices could be a golden opportunity to understand how laws are formulated, executed, and upheld. You might find yourself working alongside legislators, policy analysts, or legal advisors.
Nonprofit Organizations: Legal-centric nonprofits or advocacy groups often provide internships that allow you to participate in research projects, assist with policy analysis, or contribute to community outreach initiatives centered around legal matters.
Corporate Legal Departments: Many large corporations provide internships within their legal departments, where you can gain insights into corporate law, contracts, compliance issues, and intellectual property rights.
When applying for these internships, make sure to showcase your analytical abilities, dedication to work, and enthusiasm for legal studies. Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant coursework, extracurricular activities in law or political science, and any previous volunteer or leadership roles. Building connections with professionals in the legal field and securing recommendations from teachers or mentors can also significantly boost your chances of landing a great internship.
Law Firm Internships: Numerous law firms welcome high school students who have a keen interest in law to join them as interns or clerks. Here, you could get hands-on experience in legal research, document drafting, and even get the opportunity to accompany lawyers during court hearings or client meetings.
Courthouse Internships: Some courthouses offer high school students the chance to intern as courthouse assistants or clerks. This could be your window into the diverse facets of the legal system, allowing you to witness trials first-hand and gain a deeper understanding of courtroom procedures.
Government Internships: Working as an intern in local, state, or federal government offices could be a golden opportunity to understand how laws are formulated, executed, and upheld. You might find yourself working alongside legislators, policy analysts, or legal advisors.
Nonprofit Organizations: Legal-centric nonprofits or advocacy groups often provide internships that allow you to participate in research projects, assist with policy analysis, or contribute to community outreach initiatives centered around legal matters.
Corporate Legal Departments: Many large corporations provide internships within their legal departments, where you can gain insights into corporate law, contracts, compliance issues, and intellectual property rights.
When applying for these internships, make sure to showcase your analytical abilities, dedication to work, and enthusiasm for legal studies. Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant coursework, extracurricular activities in law or political science, and any previous volunteer or leadership roles. Building connections with professionals in the legal field and securing recommendations from teachers or mentors can also significantly boost your chances of landing a great internship.
Joanna Yarnell
attorney
3
Answers
Scarsdale, New York
Updated
Joanna’s Answer
Hi, I think you can look into companies that might have summer internships or even local courts or law firms. You can research their websites and reach out to their HR or similar groups and express your interest. Maybe also local government and your area representatives.