True. That part was tough to balance. I have three years of trial experience, 1 of which was first-chairing cases, so obviously I sold the hell out of that. I can't imagine too many applicants from biglaw can make that representation, but obviously it didn't work.Also FWIW, you wanting the job more than anything is probably less important to communicate than what you can actually offer an office. You have the clerkship, so that’s great, but you also need to be able to offer things like writing skills and trial experience, and you need to be able to sell those qualifications.
I thought making it clear that I wanted that particular job at that particular office might matter. It's an insular district.
(Although the interviewer really threw me for a loop. He opened with: "So, why (this District) rather than (more popular District next door)?" Uh, other than my clerkship and the years of practice and my ties and demonstrated commitment, you mean? I actually am not sure he read my resume.)
Anyway, I will go drown my sorrows in booze and romantic comedies.