The Honors Externship in Washington, D.C. is a full semester placement and will provide a hands-on complement to conventional courses in public law. It will connect academic learning and abstract thinking to practice in a unique and intensive way, providing unparalleled lawyering experience in some of the nation’s most impactful institutions. D.C. externs will work full-time under the close supervision and mentorship of an attorney—as well as with guidance from an NYLS faculty member. The D.C. externs will also take part in a rigorous program of academic inquiry and guided self-assessment designed to maximize professional development and growth.

The seminar and placement courses are required components of the program. Externs will work full-time (a minimum of 35 hours per week) at their placements for the duration of the semester.

As part of the program, externs will meet with NYLS faculty to engage in significant reflective work, including establishing goals and monitoring their progress towards those goals. Other components will include two breakout sessions, two individual meetings, a visit to each placement, and a professional retreat for students and their instructors. Placements will be arranged in partnership with the Externship office.

Throughout the seminar, students will engage in a critical examination of the multiple roles that lawyers play in federal government offices, private law offices, corporate offices, and nonprofit offices. Classes will draw heavily on students’ and guest speakers’ experiences. Substantive and reflective writing will be required. The seminar will also include an intensive introductory week during which the D.C. externs will explore the unique challenges and responsibilities of government practice and advocacy. Students will understand these concepts through the lens of working at a law firm, on behalf of an industry/corporation, or on behalf of a D.C.-based nonprofit.

Approved for the Experiential Learning Requirement. Enrollment is limited.

Recommended for the following Professional Pathways: Government/Public Sector

12 Credits: 9 credits for the placement (Pass/Fail); 3 credits for the seminar (Graded)