About the Program and Selection Process

LPS was created in 2009 to provide a select group of UVA Law students the curricular foundation, specialized training, and community of faculty and peers that would assist them in pursuing careers in public service. Each year, the program admits approximately 35 first-year students and about five second-year students. Fellows typically plan to enter public service careers immediately after graduation. For more information on program curricular requirements, contact Professor Annie Kim. In addition, all fellows must work at least one full-time summer internship after the first or second year of law school for a public service employer.

Admission decisions will be based on past achievement, dedication to public service, and promise of future success. Brief interviews will be conducted in October and decisions will be made soon thereafter.

We encourage all interested students to apply, including those who may be underrepresented in public service practice, such as students of color, LGBTQ students, first-generation students and students with disabilities.

How to Apply

Submit the following materials in pdf format by Friday, Oct. 14, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. to Professor Annie Kim at akim@law.virginia.edu:

• A resume (does not need to be in UVA Law school format);
• An unofficial copy of your undergraduate transcript (for 1Ls) or your law school transcript (for 2Ls),which will be reviewed for coursework rather than grades;
• A list of 2 references for people who know you well and can speak to your potential as an LPS fellow, including their names, titles, and contact information (i.e. former professor, mentor, coach, supervisor, co-worker);
• Answers to the following questions (maximum of 400 words for each):
  • Tell us why you’re passionate about working as a public service attorney after law school. If you already know what kind of public service work you’d like to pursue, describe it. If you don’t know yet, explain your general interests and how you plan to determine your path.
  • A number of factors can make it difficult to commit to a public service career, including financial constraints, familial expectations, and cultural norms among law students. What do you think are the most significant factors for you or other UVA Law students? How can we address them?