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Pre-Law Externship Program 

The Pre-Law Externship Program allows students interested in pursuing a career in law to gain hands-on experience in a legal setting. Open to undergraduate students considering law school as a career option, the program provides opportunities to shadow and observe practicing attorneys in various legal settings, such as law firms, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and courts. 

Occurring during the week of spring break (March 11 – 15, 2024), students are matched with UTD alums and legal professionals in various careers across various disciplines. Examples of day-to-day activities include attending court proceedings, viewing client meetings, exploring legal issues, and drafting legal documents. 

The goals of the externship program are to provide students with an understanding of the practical aspects of the legal profession and to allow them to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in law school and as a practicing attorney. 

Participation Requirements  

• Review the Externship Host Guide. 
• Complete the online Extern Host Interest Form.
• Prepare and submit a detailed program schedule. A schedule form confirms participation in the program. Student contact information will not be released until the schedule form has been received.
• Provide a thorough onboarding and orientation process for your externs. Ensure all expectations and goals are established at the beginning of the externship.  
• Provide professional development opportunities for the externs, including participation in training, workshops, and meetings that help them learn about the industry and profession.  
• Provide opportunities for the extern to network and conduct informational interviews with other organization members.   

UT Dallas Law Conference 

The 2023 UTD Law Conference was held on April 21, 2023, at the Davidson-Gundy Alumni Center. The 2023 Conference theme was “Why the Law.”

Attendees had the opportunity to network with legal professionals through breakout sessions and Retired Texas Supreme Court Justice Deborah Hankinson, who delivered the keynote address.

The Law Conference offers informative and practical sessions on topics relevant to pre-law students and attorneys. Speakers will share their expertise and insights on high-profile legal issues, and the program will include several breakout sessions that provide attendees with more insight into various legal fields. 

2024 UT Dallas Law Conference TBA.

If you have questions or are interested in participating, sponsoring, or volunteering at the conference, please contact the Pre-Law Advising Center at prelaw@utdallas.edu, or email Erin Dougherty, senior director for the Office of Development and Alumni Relations. 

Information Sessions 

Hosting an information session is a great way to connect with pre-law students and share information about job and internship opportunities available at your organization. These sessions can be scheduled at any point during the academic year. However, planning and organizing the event at least one month in advance is essential to ensure adequate promotion and attendance. 

To schedule an information session, please email Heather Stovall, Director.

Mock Interviewing and Resume Workshops 

Leading mock interviews and/or resume workshops allows pre-law students to develop strong interviewing skills and a polished resume. These events provide valuable feedback to students on their resumes, and interviewing techniques will enable you to assist in their preparation directly. To schedule a mock interview session or resume workshop, please email Heather Stovall, Director.

Networking Events and Mixers  

Alums can network with pre-law students through various individualized networking or mixer-styled events. These events are designed to assist alums with playing a crucial role in mentoring and guiding UT Dallas pre-law students as they navigate their educational and professional journey. To schedule a networking event with your company, firm, or organization, please email Heather Stovall, Director.

Career Treks  

Career treks are a day-long experience for pre-law students to gain firsthand expertise in the legal field. These treks involve visiting law firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to observe and engage with practicing alumni.  

As an alum, you can give back to the next generation of legal professionals by hosting a trek and sharing your experience and insights with pre-law students to help them gain valuable industry knowledge and connections. If you are interested in hosting a trek, please email Heather Stovall, Director.