OCPD Advising Compact

Students will take ownership of their Career Action Plans (CAP) by partnering with their OCPD advisor to develop a fluid strategy that includes gaining legal experience, expanding their professional networks, and identifying practice areas aligned with their values, interests, and goals.

Students must meet with their assigned advisor at least once per semester – virtually or in person – until they secure post-graduate employment. They should come prepared to engage in a productive conversation about their goals. When time-sensitive matters arise, students should utilize drop-in office hours to get support.

Students are responsible for driving their job search forward and actively pursuing multiple pathways to employment. This includes reading and responding to OCPD communications promptly and staying up to date on important announcements, opportunities, and deadlines. Students should maintain regular contact with their advisor and reach out as questions, challenges, or opportunities arise.

While engaged in a job search, students are expected to participate in recruiting and career-related programming offered through the law school – whether by the OCPD, HOPE, or other departments. This includes programs that align with their existing goals and interests, as well as those that may introduce them to new opportunities. While the OCPD will be a key resource and partner, students should also pursue and apply for opportunities beyond those presented directly by the OCPD.

Students will take ultimate ownership of preparing their job application materials and submit polished, error-free documents that follow employers’ instructions. They are responsible for understanding application requirements and ensuring accurate, timely submission.

Students should take initiative in building and maintaining professional relationships with alumni and other legal professionals. They should thank those who assist them and keep them informed if their introductions lead to valuable connections, resources, or mentorship.

As representatives of Miami Law, students are expected to conduct themselves with integrity and professionalism in all career- and networking-related activities. They are expected to understand and adhere to the Law School Honor Code and OCPD Student Recruitment Policies, including honoring commitments made to employers.

Students should select courses and experiential learning opportunities that build knowledge and skills to substantiate their interest in specific practice areas. They are encouraged to seek academic support from faculty and the Academic Achievement Program (AAP) to strengthen their learning, as their academic and hands-on experience contribute to job search success and long-term career readiness.

The OCPD will cultivate a welcoming, inclusive environment for students. Advisors will offer multiple touchpoints for student support and will respond to messages promptly. Advisors will also proactively reach out to students who have not scheduled their required check-in or otherwise engaged in a meaningful way.

Advisors will collaborate with students to create and regularly revisit their personalized Career Action Plan that maps short- and long-term goals, concrete milestones, and strategies for gaining experience, building networks, and refining interests.

Advisors will provide individualized guidance and resources for the full range of career paths – whether in large, midsize, or small firms, public interest, government, business, or JD-advantage roles – so that every student can confidently pursue opportunities that fit their goals and values.

The OCPD will maintain a robust job board, formal interview programs, and career-building events representing diverse practice areas and geographic markets. Advisors will also introduce students to alumni and other legal community contacts who might serve as mentors, advocates, and prospective employers.

Advisors will provide constructive feedback on resumes, cover letters, and other application materials, conduct mock interviews, advise on professional communications, and share data to effectively evaluate job offers and guide negotiations with employers.

Advisors will equip students with up-to-date insights on practice areas, hiring trends, recruitment timelines, and compensation ranges, while also directing them to external tools and databases that can broaden and enhance their job searches.

Advisors will coach students on workplace norms, networking etiquette, and effective communication. Advisors will steer students toward experiences that strengthen their career-readiness skills, leadership capacity, and professional identity.

OCPD Advisors employ a student-centered approach that encourages candid dialogue, collaborative problem-solving, and trust. Advisors will support students through the inevitable challenges of the job search process and champion their ultimate success, offering perspective that builds resilience, confidence, and self-efficacy.