Winter Break is a time to recharge, but it is also a critical time to put your job search into high gear. The Career Center has some advice on how to make the most of your Winter Break.
1.) Recalibrate and Assess
The change in your daily rhythm gives you the ability to reassess your career goals and your approach to the job search. Take advantage of the clarity and your new vantage point. Stop by or schedule a virtual meeting or phone call with the Career Center to strategize on the next steps in your job search.
2.) Develop Alumni Connections
Informational meetings are a wonderful way to learn about different practice areas and legal markets and to begin growing your professional network, especially when it is with a WashULaw alum. Martindale-Hubbell and LinkedIn can be helpful tools to identify possible alumni connections. You can also reach out to the Career Center; Strategists can help you identify alumni to reach out to or connect with.
3.) Meet with a Peer Career Advisor
Peer Career Advisors are available during Winter Break to meet with you to discuss application strategy, networking, and more. Please reach out to them individually via email to set up a virtual or in person meeting. They are happy to help you!
4.) Attend a Winter Reception (or Receptions!)
Winter Receptions take place across the country and may even be held in your target markets. These receptions are a great way to establish rapport with attorneys and organizations you are interested in. Take a day trip or go to one scheduled in your city.
5.) Edit and Update Your Resume, Cover Letter and Writing Sample
The break is a great time to ensure you have included your most recent job experience and law school activities in your resume and cover letter and to perfect your writing sample. Updating your documents now is a simple way to be prepared for when the perfect position comes along. If you need help editing your materials, contact the Career Center.
6.) Apply, Apply, Apply!
Now is the time to send out applications. The more jobs you apply for, the better your chances of landing your dream position. For 1L students, although you will not have a transcript, you can almost always still submit your applications with a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and a Webstac copy of your fall courses with a note that your transcript will be supplemented with your grades as soon as they are available.
Want more ideas on how to game plan for your Winter Break? Come by the Career Center to strategize. We are here all of Winter Break!