Summer Funding Resources

So you've landed an unpaid summer public interest gig (or are working toward that), and are thinking out ways to make it work financially.  Here's some resources and suggestions:

Determine if there is any flexibility to work only 25-30 hours so you can pursue paid work, such as:

• Research Assistant to a College of Law Professor or in one of the Centers or Institutes.  Network your work into finding out about these opportunities from the professors, Directors, and past research assistants.
• A non-legal gig, like a coffee shop or part-time nanny.  Yes, you'll have to report all employment to the bar for character and fitness someday, but you don't have to include it on your resume.
• Working as a legal assistant or courier for a legal employer -- do some networking, and learn where to file everything at the courthouses.

Pay attention to newsletters, discussion lists, and other emails you receive from the College of Law for funding opportunities.

• For example, the Center for Public Interest Law and Law Career Services collaborate to provide one application for their funding sources.  This will be coming later in December.
• The centers and institutes usually advertise their opportunities to their discussion lists and fellows.

Use external resources for funding.

• PSLawNet provides an overview of external summer funding opportunities (and for postgraduation too).  Many of our students have received funding through the Equal Justice America Law Student Fellowships and Equal Justice Works SummerCorps programs (yes, these are two separate organizations)
• Through its Library and Philanthropy Centers, the Donors Forum provides free access to the Foundation Center's Foundation Grants to Individuals Online.  This resource will be the most helpful for those that are seeking to do non-legal work.