Put your skills to practice
Field placements, also referred to as externships, are experiential learning opportunities that allow you work in real-world legal settings under the guidance of practicing attorneys.
You'll develop and exercise judgment, deepen your understanding of the law in practice, shape your professional identity, and build your resume before graduation.
Summer Legal Placement Program
This program is designed to help you explore professional options within the legal profession and support you in your first legal experience.
Academic Year Field Placements
Pursue a part-time externship within commuting distance of the law school, or opt for a semester away in a full-time externship in a specific practice area of interest.
New York Pro Bono Scholars Program
Law students in their final semester of law school are eligible to participate in this unique and innovative program developed by the New York Court of Appeals.
"The externship programs are incredibly helpful in preparing students to become successful attorneys. I had the opportunity to work in-house at John Deere Financial and at the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Iowa, which helped me to put my education into practice. At John Deere, I had the opportunity to participate in meetings and research issues which gave me an insight into the clients’ perspective of legal issues. In addition, working with Judge Collins provided me with the perspective of seeing the law from the judge’s eyes."
Featured Stories
Shining a light on service: Iowa Law students record nearly 22,000 pro bono hours
Law in Practice: Students pursue externships to hone appellate advocacy and legal writing skills
Third-year law students get their day in court, fighting for students' rights
"Externing has provided me with some of the most valuable, practice-based experience I could ask for—and early in my law school career. I spent time in Washington D.C. with the United States Securities & Exchange Commission and also worked with Chief Judge Sara Darrow in the United States District Court for the Central District of Illinois. Right away, I felt like a contributive member of my attorney team and picked up practice-based skills that continue to serve me today. My time with Judge Darrow taught me lessons that many practitioners go careers without learning."
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