REQUIRED SKILLS

Many attorneys involved in hiring law graduates for public international jobs believe that the basics are most important: good writing, strong research skills, the ability to analyze at a sophisticated level, and being able to advocate ideas clearly and forcefully. For many legal jobs, proficiency in a foreign language or comfort with a foreign country or culture is also important. Otherwise, specific skills will depend on the particular job that one is applying to.

Participation in a competitive law journal or in a US judicial clerkship, while helpful in securing a U.S.- based employment opportunity, are not likely to make or break the chances for a career in international public interest. Many employers do look favorably upon applicants who have published on subjects relevant to the job in question. For many jobs, however, what is most important is having relevant work experience.

For most public international jobs, experience living and working abroad is extremely helpful personally, as well as a good professional credential. In some cases, such experience is essential, as with many positions related to human rights, international health, development or humanitarian assistance.