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Sis got herself through, and accepted a GREAT clerkship
I’m so proud!!
BUT the clerkship application process makes it really clear why there’s a lack of diversity among clerks. https://twitter.com/mariahyyy/status/1278339200560005123
I’m so proud!! BUT the clerkship application process makes it really clear why there’s a lack of diversity among clerks. https://twitter.com/mariahyyy/status/1278339200560005123
Like many, I entered law school having NO idea what a clerkship was. And about as quickly as I learned what it was, I learned landing one seemed impossible. The general message delivered: if you aren’t on law review/top 10%, good luck 
I think clerkship offices reinforce these messages too often so students “manage their expectations” but it’s harmful.
There’s a very fine line between clerkship offices as helpful agents & gatekeepers. Their loyalty is to the school, not individual applicants. Won’t go off in a tangent, but just my two cents for those interested in diversifying the applicant pool.
It is also no secret that BIPOC clerks are extremely rare. When sending the message to "apply broadly," at least consider this may look different for diverse applicants.
Mentorship throughout this process is KEY. The messaging is inherently discouraging. This made me (1) not want to apply, and (2) hesitant to ask for help b/c I was unsure whether profs would think I was an applicant worth backing.
I really don’t think I would have submitted applications but for this email from @efieldingd (and ongoing support).
^^ which is terrible because profs had invested their time in writing letters on my behalf, but that is how bad my imposter syndrome was (partly b/c of harmful messaging).
I have the immense privilege of clerking for the next two years (
), and I’m very thankful for the opportunity. BUT literally only applied b/c I had mentorship.
), and I’m very thankful for the opportunity. BUT literally only applied b/c I had mentorship.
Basically, it is unfortunate but not surpising only 6% of 2L women of color apply for clerkships. The lack of solid, consistent institutional support means for some (me), the decision turns on ad hoc mentorship.
Of course, not having diverse faculty means BIPOC students may be less likely to have this valuable mentorship (b/c it's easier to connect with people who look like you/share your lived experiences). But this isn't news.
Basically, if you are a white prof, think about how many BIPOC students you have *actively* suppprted in the clerkship/fellowship process. Then, think about how many white students you've supported. How do they compare? Are you directly contributing to the lack of diversity?
** @Clrks4Diversity is launching a mentorship program for diverse clerks. Application due July 17: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQqbjx5MT3zYU7l_8h8P9_N_qgG-vX_URTBdqIAUWq8NF4Iw/viewform
