Through participation in the Externship Programs, students can earn academic credit for work with a nonprofit organization, a government agency, or a member of the judiciary. LL.M. students may be eligible for the program on a case‐by-case basis.
| Why should I seek an externship placement? | How do I apply for a placement? | How do I receive academic credit? | Student Spotlight |
What is the benefit of an externship?
Perspective. Although you are taught objective legal argument in law school, the primary thrust is to train you as an advocate. The largest benefit of an externship is for students to see advocacy in action.
Exposure. Working as an extern allows you to view the documents and observe hearings on a large number and variety of legal actions.
Résumé Value. Legal employers respond favorably to externships. Having externship experience on your résumé boosts your marketability.
Networking. Externs often have opportunities to network with a variety of legal professionals.
What do externs do?
It depends on the organization for which you extern. Most students can expect to do some legal research and writing, observe court proceedings, and attend meetings with the supervising attorney. Some externs may also be involved in interviewing and counseling victims or clients.
