I'm sad. I just got an email rejection for a clerkship I really wanted. I have been applying for almost 3 months and nothing has panned out. A good amount of interviews (some good/some bad), 2nd interviews, and even a flight to the other side of the country for an interview. I dont come from a known law school but I graduated with honors, did moot, worked at a firm, and just finished another clerkship. I can't help but feel discouraged.

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I’m so sorry to hear that. Keep your head up. For what it is worth, it sounds like you have a great resume and I’m sure something perfect will open up soon.

likeuplifting

I am not sure how much this helps, but clerkship positions are SO competitive- you should be so proud of yourself for being considered so seriously even if they didn’t ultimately offer you the position. To me that suggests you’re a strong candidate and will eventually land somewhere great.

likeuplifting

I’m basically in the same boat as you, OP. Been applying to clerkships for the past 6 months, and have only had 2 interviews. Rejected after both. It sucks, but I’m hoping that something will work out (for the both of us)!

likeuplifting

What type of clerkship are you going for? Maybe try a local county or state clerkship where your law school is known.

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Sorry to hear. Where are you trying to land/leave?

One of my favorite sayings is the universe may be protecting you from a future at these jobs that you can’t see but the universe can. Many of the most successful people have been rejected time and time again. And you never know with interviews- it could be that the boss’ nephew needed a job, or the person interviewing you doesn’t know how to pick employees, or maybe you just didn’t meet the qualifications. But don’t let that reflect on you. You have to keep plugging and you will find the right job. Having had lots of jobs myself, as I have gotten older, I have started just being myself in interviews- when I was younger, I would try to be whatever I thought was impressive, give the classic answer “I’m a perfectionist!” to the time-tested, terrible question of what’s your biggest weakness? You may be already doing this- being your authentic self- but also don’t forget you’re interviewing them too. Also it’s normal to feel discouraged- rejection sucks. So your feelings are totally valid. And this may not be the right HR answer bc I’m not a recruiter or in HR, but I think analyzing what you said in previous interviews has limited utility. Sure you can practice ticking off your accomplishments and strengths, but you will drive yourself crazy if you worry about “did I sound too enthusiastic? Was I wearing the right suit?” And I really think just being yourself is the best route because you want to work with people with whom you mesh and vibe well with and you need to show them your authentic self. This may be terrible advice, but hang in there. I always like Michael Jordan’s quotes about success and failure, but that’s just something that gets me through the rejection.

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The clerkship process is competitive and everyone’s timeframe looks different. I’ve had friends only apply to one clerkship after working two months and get it. Others applied for 6 months straight didn’t get anything…took a break from applying for a few months and started applying again to get a clerkship almost immediately. When things don’t go as planned, trust the reroute.

Try attending events where judges speak - if you have a political bent orgs like Fed Soc or ACS or NLG or St Thomas Moore Society — judges do a lot of speaker events for groups they support. I was able to meet a ton of judges in person at events for groups I support and it makes it way easier to get your app seen. Just introduce yourself and say you loved the talk and would love to work for them and ask how they prefer to receive apps or if they’re hiring now or soon? Most are very receptive. I’ve talked to many circuit judges. I compliment them on something I know about them or their work or strike up a convo about common backgrounds or interests. Then after a few minutes just say I don’t want to keep you it’s been a pleasure speaking with you. I have to tell you I’d love to clerk for you….then ask what I said about hiring procedure/timeline or ask what they look for in a clerk to make sure you come off interested and deferential.

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