On-campus interviews (OCI) at Washburn Law

Our On-Campus Interview (OCI) program offers you a direct path to summer and post-graduation positions by connecting you with all types of legal employers, right here on campus.

Understanding OCI

The OCI program at Washburn Law is an essential opportunity for both first-year and second-year students to secure summer positions, and for third-year students to land pivotal post-graduation roles. Fall OCI sessions take place during August and September, while Spring OCI sessions are held in January and February. These events cater to a wide range of legal employers who are keen on forecasting their hiring needs well in advance.
Two students chat while sitting down.

How to participate in OCI

To participate in OCI, you'll utilize the 12twenty system—an online platform where you can upload your resume, apply for positions, and view your interview schedules. Start by creating your profile and keep it updated to increase your visibility to potential employers. It's crucial to regularly check the list of participating employers and select those that align with your career aspirations.

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Preparing for OCI

Preparation is key to making the most out of OCI. Begin by researching potential employers early. Utilize resources like 12twenty to review employer profiles, NALP forms, and employer websites. This research will help you apply only to those employers with whom you have a genuine interest, based on their required skills, geographical location and practice areas.
A student smiles while standing in a group chatting.

On-campus interviews vs. resume collection vs. direct application

While many employers will interview on campus, some may opt for a "resume collection" process. This alternative does not involve an on-campus visit but still requires you to submit your application through 12twenty. Selected resumes are forwarded to employers, and any further correspondence or interviews will be conducted directly by the employer.

Increasingly, large firms are bypassing OCI in favor of students applying directly via firm websites. Talk to the PDO regarding the timing of those direct applications.

Special information for J-Section students

If you began your law school journey in January, you are eligible to participate in the fall recruiting events after completing your first semester.

  1. Submit resumes only to those employers of genuine interest to you. Do not submit resumes for the sole purpose of gaining interview experience.
  2. Once a student schedules an interview his or her attendance is required unless exigent circumstances exist. Students must notify the PDO staff as early as possible if cancellation becomes necessary. Students who do not show up for an interview or who repeatedly cancel interviews will not be allowed to continue participating in OCI without the permission of the Assistant Dean for Professional Development. The determination whether to allow a student to continue participating in OCI will depend largely upon the reason for the absence/cancellation and whether the student promptly sends an appropriate letter of explanation to the employer (with a copy to the Assistant Dean for Professional Development).
  3. Once a student accepts a position, they must inform any other employers with whom they have scheduled interviews and cancel the interviews. If the student has submitted Application Packets to employers who have not yet made prescreening decisions, the PDO will inform employers to remove the student from consideration. This simple consideration may allow another Washburn Law student the opportunity to interview. Students who do not comply with this policy will not be allowed to participate in future OCI programs without the permission of the Assistant Dean for Professional Development.
  4. As with all activities at the law school, the Honor Code and Procedure for Law Students is applicable to activities sponsored by the PDO, including OCI. The following sections are particularly relevant:
    • A.3. Improperly using, destroying, forging, or altering University documents or records.
    • B.2(a). Supplying forged, falsified or altered information while seeking employment, educational or professional opportunities...
    • B.2(b). Intentional misrepresentation of law school academic or enrollment status, or involvement in extracurricular activities.

Beyond OCI

Expanding your job search

OCI is just one avenue in your job search journey. We encourage you to also engage in networking, utilize direct contacts, and explore job postings to broaden your job search scope. Additionally, scheduling individual appointments with our Professional Development Office can help tailor your job search strategy effectively.