Public Service and Policy Practical Experience

Through opportunities for career planning support, clinics, school-wide public community service events, and externships including our award-winning pro bono program, you will gain the necessary skills for success in a legal career in public interest, government, and public policy.

Oregon Law Career Center Offices

Career

The Center for Career Planning and Professional Development is your strategic partner for professional success. Through our comprehensive Career Exploration and Professional Planning course, tailored one-on-one counseling sessions, and extensive alumni and employer relationships, our attorney-counselors position every Law Duck to excel in their chosen career.

Clinics

Nonprofit Clinic

Environmental Law Clinic

Domestic Violence Clinic

Pro Bono Opportunities

Oregon Law students volunteer for organizations that serve individuals who would otherwise not have access to justice. You can choose your own or volunteer for established opportunities with local nonprofits or Oregon Law pro bono projects.

An example of a legal education with a Public Service and Policy focus:

 

Practical Skills Development Example:

FIRST YEAR (1L)

  • Legal Research and Writing
  • Law-related Pro Bono work

SECOND YEAR (2L) 

  • Judicial or Local Government Externship
  • Environmental Law Clinic

THIRD YEAR (3L)

  • Fellowship
  • Nonprofit Clinic

 

Career Development Example:

FIRST YEAR (1L)

  • Explore public interest/public service law practice areas
  • Meet with career counselor
  • Judicial Field Placement

SECOND YEAR (2L)

  • Narrow career exploration to specific employers/locations
  • Seek out networking opportunities
  • Public Interest/Public Service Law Summer Field Placement

THIRD YEAR (3L)

  • Public Interest/Public Service Law Summer Field Placement
  • Apply for jobs

 

Extracurricular Example:

FIRST YEAR (1L)

  • Join a student group related to your interest

SECOND YEAR (2L)

  • Become an OLSPIF Board Member
  • Apply for a Summer Stipend
  • Participate in Moot Court
  • Participate in Pro Bono work

THIRD YEAR (3L)

  • Participate in Pro Bono work
  • Become an OLSPIF Board Member
  • Learn about loan forgiveness and payment options for public sector and public interest jobs