I hope this doesn't come off sounding trite, but...

Do you have ideas about what you might want to do (or even what you might NOT want)? Questions, connections, classes, and opportunities can flow from there a lot easier than just generally asking: how do I not work at a firm?

One thing I found helpful was to start with the scenario of working in a firm (or some other situation where money was not a concern). Then, what pro bono projects would you want to work on? Why? What would you want to do outside of work (for fun or civic duty, whatever)... Generally, then things you'd want to do when money is no object reveal a bit about what we are passionate or at least stimulated by. Then, start asking and thinking about how that can be a bigger part of what you do.

Our safety net for thinking outside of the box is HUGE, as we are given so much privilege and credit (and resources) just for having the Columbia name attached to ours.

-- MiaWhite - 16 Apr 2008

Well I think I already know what I want. The new question is how to get it.

Also, Here's proof CLS sets you up for big firm work.

http://blogs.wsj.com/law/2008/04/14/solid-placement-columbia-northwestern-top-law-firm-recruiting-survey/?mod=WSJBlog

Not only does CLS set us up for big firms right out of school, but its the best in the country at doing that (75%). I guess all the Harvard and Yale students go clerk.

-- JulianBaez - 15 Apr 2008

Julian, I agree with the criteria you listed, but I would argue that they are too broad. The upside for using broad categories is that they can apply to everyone. The downside is that they don't really help guide us past one or two steps.

To me, those criteria are more like questions. How much money do you need? What work do you find meaningful? Etc. The second question in particular is what Andrew was writing about a few days ago on this twiki, the search for something to feel passionate about. Once you figure out what fires you up, what you want to do in the world, you just have to get someone to pay you for doing it... or at least get someone to pay you for something so that you can do what you want later.

-- ChristopherBuerger - 15 Apr 2008