Resources for Students

The Career Development Office offers each student the tools and support to acquire the necessary skills to grow their network and to create their individualized job search strategy. We know each student’s job search is unique but there are some tips and principles that are nonetheless important for all students to learn. This site and the sub-sections to the left provide guidance on developing these skills and experiences.

Professional Identity & Skills

Professional education is incorporated throughout the Drake Law curriculum, as well as through focused Career Development and other programming. Professional identity and civility are the basis of the legal profession and through practical training, classroom discussions, and other focused discussions, students will gain skills and an understanding in this area. Polk County District Court Judge Colin Witt's words on civility and compassion from his perspective on the bench are something all students should view at some point while in law school. Learn more about the Professional Skills you will develop here at Drake.

Cultural Competence

Continue your ethical and professional responsibility in the law to learn and develop cultural competency. 

Suit Yourself

CDO has a collection of professional attire available for you to use and keep if you don't have something for interviews, internships, or even moot court.  Stop by and take a look or learn more about Suit Yourself and how it works.

Networking

Take advantage of studying in the capitol city and meet attorneys whenever you can!  CDO will host numerous receptions, panels, mentoring, and other networking opportunities - be sure to join us!

Negotiating and Responding to Offers

When those offers come, please know CDO can help you consider your needs and options to respond, including financial, benefits, timing, split summers, and other factors that may affect your future.

Things Students Should Consider

First-year students attending law school full-time are encouraged not to seek employment during the first year of law school. This allows students to become academically established and adjust to law school prior to adding additional commitments. In addition, the first-year schedule is generally such that it is difficult to find blocks of time to work during the typical work day.

For any full-time student who opts to work during the academic year, it is recommended that the hours worked not exceed 20 hours per week.

If you are an international degree-seeking student here on an academic visa, contact the CDO to discuss requirements for off-campus employment.

Bar Exam

Finally, there is the bar exam.  Iowa is one of the many states that offers the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE).  You can get more information on the bar exam, individual state requirements, exam components and more by visiting our Bar Exam information page.  In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Students are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.