PAJ Diverse Mentoring Initiative (DMI) will be hosting an informational session Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. E.T. via zoom to answer all questions regarding the DMI program. Please join us by using the zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86499703635?pwd=NitWTjdqbFRRdUdIVzNZeUlySEttZz09
The Pennsylvania Association for Justice Diverse Mentoring Initiative (DMI) is open to any first-year law student who meets one or more of the following criteria: (1) they have overcome a significant and unusual obstacle in the pursuit of a legal career; (2) they come from a background or are a part of a group that is underrepresented in the legal profession; and/or (3) they come from a disadvantaged background.
Application Requirements
You will need to provide the following documents in your application (Please submit all documents as PDFs by January 31, 2023):
• Current Resume
• Copy of your complete undergraduate and graduate (if applicable) school transcripts
• Copy of your law school transcript that includes Fall 2022 grades (If your final Fall 2022 transcript is unavailable at the time of application, please only email your undergraduate transcript.)*
• A 1L writing sample: a copy of your final first-semester legal memorandum
• A brief personal essay (~ 500 words): your essay should include two separate sections: (1) describe how you meet the criteria for the PAJ DMI program. If your eligibility depends on being part of a group underrepresented in the legal profession, please tell us which underrepresented group. If your eligibility depends on having overcome obstacles or coming from a disadvantaged background, please explain how you have overcome the obstacles or disadvantages. If you fit more than one category, please discuss both. (2) Describe your interest in practicing in Pennsylvania and in the plaintiff’s bar, and why you would like to participate in the PAJ DMI program.
• Optional: if you feel your 1L grades are not representative of your full academic potential or, if you faced significant hardship that impacted your 1L performance in a negative way that you would like the committee to be aware of, you may briefly describe the circumstances in a separate essay (250-500 words).
How to Apply
Email your application to DMI@pajustice.org. The subject of the email should be in the following format: Last, First, PAJ DMI Application. Any questions can be directed to Amanda Lorentson at DMI@pajustice.org or by visiting our website, www. pajustice.org/page/DiverseMentoringInitiative .