I love people more than money (probably)

"But," you say to yourself, "I came to law school because I care about justice! How do I get a job in public interest?"

Fist of all, no you didn't. You came to law school because you didn't know what else to do with yourself, and the economy was swirling down the toilet. Don't lie.

Second: Hahahahahahahaha

You poor thing. Don't you know that your law school wants you to work for a big firm? Make lots of money and then give it back to the school! That's how it works. Go forth and interview!

Let's pause for a moment and be fair: that IS how it works. Law schools need rich alums to write nice fat checks. As a business deal, it makes sense and works pretty well. Unless you happen to be one of those crazy people who doesn't want a job based on the paycheck (what is wrong with you??).

If you want to work in public interest, you were, for a long time, pretty much on your own (this is changing slightly). Or you could work for the government. Or a firm - don't forget firms! Firms are nice! I got my internships by offering myself, for free, to worthy causes both summers. I had to do this BEFORE figuring out funding. Last summer I got a part-time job. This summer...who knows? Because the information about HOW TO PAY FOR YOUR LIFE IF YOU WORK IN PUBLIC INTEREST ISN'T UP YET. (and breathe)

I really do want to get a job I can care about. The problem is finding a cause/organization with enough money to pay me... Because while I do like people and civil rights and puppies and sunshine, I also like to eat.