1. Where will you be working and what are you doing? I’m working at the Salt Lake City Prosecutor’s Office as an Associate City Prosecutor. I represent the City at the Salt Lake Justice Court in criminal cases.
2. When and how did you first make contact with your employer? I initially worked with the office as an intern through the criminal clinic in my 3L year. I later submitted an application through the City’s online application system.
3. How did you get the job? After graduating, I worked for a small criminal defense firm for while waiting to get bar results and to get sworn into the bar. I then did some contract work for solo practitioners and at the U in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action. It took me nearly a year after graduating to get the job I’d wanted I submitted an application through the City’s online application system. I also followed up by mailing a cover letter and resume to the City Prosecutor. I completed two interviews and was then given an offer of employment.
4. What kinds of things do you think helped you land you job? Experience in law school, something else? I believe that that interning through the criminal clinic played a substantial part in allowing me to get the job. As an intern, I was able to learn from the prosecutors and make an impression that you cannot provide through the normal application process. As well, I believe I demonstrated a commitment to criminal law and public work through my law school activities and during my interview.
5. What tips do you have for students who are job seeking? I would recommend that you take the opportunities during law school to meet and work with lawyers in your field. I would also be sure to lay a large net by letting everyone and anyone know what work you are looking for. I received many job postings from friends and colleagues that I think others in my class did not receive. I would also regularly monitor the city and county job boards as they update quickly and the application periods are often short.