Tips

Unofficial Transcripts

You can download your unofficial transcript by logging into My Drake, pulling up your transcript on the Self Service tab, and printing or saving to PDF. You will be able to upload the PDF to Symplicity or send it with your cover letter.  Click here for additional browser and printing tips. If you need assistance, stop by or contact CDO.

Electronic Signatures

We do not recommend simply typing your name in alternative or cursive font.  Instead, use an electronic signature.  Try an online tool to create and save a clean, professional signature.  If you need assistance, stop by or contact CDO.

Writing Samples

Some legal employers, particularly judges, will request writing samples as part of your application materials. This is an important step in applying for the job, so read these tips and suggestions on Selecting a Writing Sample.

References and Letters of Recommendation

Think carefully and intentionally when selecting references or individuals to prepare letters of recommendation. References should not be included on the resume; instead, when requested prepare a separate document with the name and current contact information for each person. For letters of recommendation, be sure to allow sufficient time for the individual to submit their letter. Read these important guidelines and tips on Requesting Letters of Recommendation and References.

Professional Identity and Skills

Ask CDO if you have any questions or concerns over professional skills or expectations. Be sure to check out these brief videos on e-mail and voicemail communications, best practices for the application process, and managing job offers plus other Professional Skills tips.

Conducting Employer Research

Researching types, sizes, and locations of employers is critical for you to gain an understanding of the practice of law you want to enter.  Find out about the employer before you apply and then, when granted an interview, perform additional research about the employer as well as the interviewers you will be meeting.  You can find information about many different types of employers on the Jobs tab to the left.  In addition, you can have access to Bloomberg Law's Career Resources for additional research options. To research practice areas, a good guide to start with is the Chambers Practice Are Guide, where you will see the types of project a lawyer in that area might do as well as example employers. Also, take a moment to watch a short video on the Business of Law - explaining how law firms actually run.

Using LinkedIn

LinkedIn is not only a great tool for networking and creating your professional brand, it is also a very effective tool in the job search itself.  You can search for jobs by location or practice area and also set up alerts to keep you updated on new postings.  You can also find valuable contacts by searching for fellow Drake Law alums through the "People" search tool - use the school and other filters to help narrow your search.   See "How Law Students Can and Should Use LinkedIn" or the LinkedIn Workshop  slides for specific tips and screenshots on doing your own searches.  As with any online activity, be careful with job offers that sound too good to be true, employers or contacts who cannot be verified, or employers who ask you to spend money up front on supplies.