I just finished working 168 hours at an intellectual property law firm in Manhattan.
What is an extern or externship?
It’s an intern that gets compensated for working in academic credit. I worked 168 hours and received four credits towards graduation.
What is intellectual property?
There is real property which is tangible possessions like a house or jewelry. Intellectual property is possession and ownership over nontangible things. Intellectual property is most commonly known for trademarks, patents and copyrights. Those are the big three intellectual property umbrellas.
What did I learn? (A lot of things they don’t teach you in law school)
⁃ How to prepare for trademark litigation and how to analyze and organize discovery
⁃ How to assist in filing USPTO ethics violations
⁃ How to write an opposition letter and cease and desist letters
⁃ How to conduct anti-counterfeit searches
⁃ I learned how to conduct more efficient research on a wide variety of IP topics
- I learned how to present my research to the partner
Tips for others?
- Always carry a note pad or notebook and pen with you when you are going to meet with a partner or associate
- Have a positive attitude
- Ask a ton of questions but only after you try to figure it out yourself first because you don’t want to be too annoying
- Practice researching and writing memos whenever you can
- Collaborate with coworkers not on your direct team
- Always say yes with a big smile on your face (this is my big tip from last year’s post)
- Go to social work events when you are invited (I was lucky enough to be invited to a black-tie gala and some great happy hours) and mingle with other coworkers
- I don’t like to use the word “network” because it sounds fake. So instead of “networking,” try to make genuine friendships and connections with people you work with.
Really enjoyed this post. Your trademark externship insights on clearance searches, client counseling, and deadline discipline felt real and practical. It shows how IP teams operate daily. The focus reminded me to plan better—like mapping a new zealand south island 10 day self drive itinerary christchurch—preparation matters.
ReplyDeleteLoved reading about your externship insights! Your experience on the trademark team really shows the value of hands-on learning in IP law. It reminded me of researching Boutique Family Hotels in Siena—attention to detail matters everywhere. Definitely inspired me to explore trademark work more deeply.
ReplyDeleteLoved reading your insights from the trademark externship! Your experience reminded me how crucial attention to detail is in IP work. It’s like planning trips with Belgium Exclusive Travel Group—every small element matters. Your post really captures the learning curve and practical takeaways perfectly.
ReplyDeleteReading about your legal externship on the Trademark Team was insightful! I loved how you connected meticulous trademark research to real-world practice. Your mention of a Vineyard Visit as a stress-break highlight made it relatable and human. Definitely inspires me to value both work and small joys.
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