Public Works

FCIP no more?

By Yared Getachew '98

Over the past year or so, we have advised students interested in pursuing entry-level non-PMF, non-honors positions to consider a little-known program, the Federal Career Intern Program, created under Executive Order 13162.  In a blog posting, I recommended this terrific entryway into occupations that allow for exceptional formal training and development with some agencies, including the DHS, EPA, and DOJ.  However, it looks like this hiring program is on hold. 

On November 2, 2010, the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) ruled that the FCIP violates civil service rules at least as it relates to veterans' preference.  In its final Order, the Board determined:

[The FCIP] is inconsistent with the Civil Service Rules that govern placement of positions in the excepted service under 5 U.S.C.§ 33201(1) - a law relating to veterans' preference - because it allows an agency to invoke an appointing authority reserved for "positions . . . for which it is not practicable to hold a competitive examination" after the agency holds a competitive examination that yields highly-qualified preference-eligible candidates.

If the named defendants in this case - the Office of Personal Management and the Department of Veterans Affairs - appeal the Board's decision, we will let you know. In the meantime, please continue to remain vigilant for opportunities posted on the government's clearinghouse, USAJobs.  And continue to visit us at the PSC.

DOJ CRM

By Yared Getachew '98

Last week, Jennifer Rickets 88' gave us an excellent overview of the Department of Justice's volunteer internship program and the responsibilities of the Civil Division.

This Friday, November 19, at 12:00pm in WB126, Jonathan  Rusch '80, Deputy Chief, Criminal Division, Fraud Section, will offer a presentation about summer volunteer internship opportunities in his division.  DOJ - CRM enforces federal criminal laws except those specifically assigned to other divisions.  The division's sections and the 93 United States Attorney Offices oversee criminal matters under more than 900 statutes. There are numerous sections, offices, and units in the division.  Please join us with your questions.

First Amendment Writes 2010 - November 8, 2010

By Yared Getachew

I happened to be on the Downtown Mall earlier today and as I passed by the Jefferson Theater saw a flyer announcing an event co-sponsored by our friends at the Thomas Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression.  On Monday, November 8, at 6:30PM, the TJ Center and The Music Resource Center will present First Amendment Writes 2010: Annual Poetry and Songwriting Competition.  Below is the write-up on the Jefferson's site:

First Amendment Writes is the performance component of a truly unique songwriting and poetry competition designed to celebrate the creative heights that can only be achieved when artists are free to express themselves on any theme, subject, or idea. Twenty finalists (10 songwriters and 10 poets) will perform their original works in hopes of being selected to receive a $500 prize from a highly distinguished panel of judges [ ]. Past judges have included Boyd Tinsley of Dave Matthews Band, and former National Poet Laureate Rita Dove. Now in its 5th year, First Amendment Writes 2010 will for the first time allow the audience to choose their favorite song and poem for a $300 prize. Read and hear past winners of the contest [here].

The TJ Center has employed Virginia Law students for summer internship positions since the mid-90s (I was one of those fortunate enough to snag a summer internship at the Center after my 1L year). This promises to be a great event.  Tickets cost only $5.00.

Public Interest Resume Templates (in Word)

By Yared Getachew

Class of 2013: By now, you have read the Public Service Center's and Career Services's guides on how to prepare a legal resume.  I realize all of you have prepared a resume in the past but to the extent you wish to use one of our templates, I have attached 5 below.  My colleagues and I will discuss public interest resumes and cover letters during our presentation and Q&A session on November 4 (and other dates TBA).

Download 1 PSC Sampe Resume Garamond No School Activity

Download 2 PSC Sampe Resume DUAL ADDRESS

Download 3 PSC Sampe Resume Book Antique DUAL Address

Download 4 PSC Sampe Resume INDENTED 

Download 5 PSC Sampe Resume Experienced TcCen Font