A great way to break into the public interest field post-graduation is through a fellowship. Usually for a term of 1-2 years, fellowships offer an opportunity to work with an organization or cause that is important to you while building your skills as a new attorney. Fellows often stay on at their host organization after the fellowship ends or continue in their chosen field, making a fellowship a launching pad for the type of work you may want to do. There are a variety of fellowships and endless opportunities to explore legal issues, so think about your passion and you can find one that works for you. The deadlines come quickly (some in late 2L spring), so start planning as early as you think you might be interested!
Here’s a quick guide on the different categories of fellowships, things to think about with each one, and some resources for further research. If you have more questions, I’ll be hosting a big table discussion in January. If I can answer, I will. Also, always feel free to email me at sharionscott@wustl.edu or make an appointment with a CCD staff member to talk about your goals!
Organization Fellowships– these are fellowships created and financed by organizations themselves. You will find fellowships at entities such as the ACLU, Lawyer’s Committee for Civil Rights (in various cities), Equal Justice Initiative, and a host of other organizations. Sometimes the field of work will be chosen by the org but you may have some license in designing a specific project. Other times, the organization controls your workload and the fellowship is basically the same as a staff attorney. Positions are usually for one or two years. This is a good option if you have a specific organization in mind and want a foot in the door with it. See the resources below for lists of organizations that have these fellowships.
Project-Based Fellowships– these fellowships are best for people who are passionate about a particular issue or population and want to create a project to address a currently unmet need. You are responsible for choosing an organization that will sponsor your project. You then work with that organization to apply for funding through an entity like the Skadden Foundation, Equal Justice Works, or Soros. These fellowships usually last two years. The application deadlines are early (mid-September) and the process is very competitive. If you think you want to do this, start generating a project and connecting with an organization now.
Teaching Fellowships– several law schools have fellowships for individuals who would like to gain teaching experience while also being hands-on in a particular area. This is usually done through a clinical program. Fellows supervise clinic students while also litigating cases or leading initiatives in the community. These fellowships are usually for 1-2 years. See the Yale Law Guide for more info.
Resources
PSJD Guide to Postgraduate Fellowships
Yale Law School Fellowship Guide
12 Legal Fellowships for Graduates
If you have questions regarding fellowships feel free to reach out to Claire O’Brien @ mailto:claire.obrien@wustl.edu