Lblair Resume Guide

Common Law
Services la population tudiante
Student Services
Naked Resumes
and Cover Letters
Services la population tudiante

Student Services
Fauteux pice / Room 233 y (613) 562-5800 ext. 2514 y lawserv2@uottawa.ca
Naked Resumes and Cover Letters
Page 1 of 36
Table of Contents
Table of Contents...................................................................................................................................... 1
Welcome to Naked Resumes and Cover Letters.................................................................................... 2
How is a Legal Resume Different? ...................................................................................................... 3
The Short List Dos and Donts .......................................................................................................... 3
A Note on Transferable Skills .............................................................................................................. 4
Sample Resumes: First Career Resumes................................................................................................ 5
Jackie Academic.................................................................................................................................................5
Tara Extracurricular..........................................................................................................................................7
Carl Criminal Focus ..........................................................................................................................................9
Ava General .....................................................................................................................................................11
Janice A. American-Firm................................................................................................................................13
Lynda Baystreet...............................................................................................................................................14
Amy A. Academic ...........................................................................................................................................16
Patrick Secondcareer.......................................................................................................................................18
Natalia National Accreditation .....................................................................................................................20
Ryan B. American-Firm..................................................................................................................................22
Clerkship ..........................................................................................................................................................24
Specific City Firm (note that special care must be taken to identify a specific tie to the city of
application if other than Toronto i.e. Vancouver in this case.) .................................................................25
Large Firm (note that no specific city tie is given, this is appropriate for Toronto)...............................26
Large Firm (note specific city tie to Ottawa) ...............................................................................................27
Medium Sized Firm ........................................................................................................................................28
Variations on a Theme....................................................................................................................................29
Re: Application for Summer 2004 Employment...................................................................................... 29

Small Boutique Firm Application .................................................................................................................30
Re: Application for Articling for 2005-2006.............................................................................................. 30

Summer Application (Cold Call) ..................................................................................................................31
Summer Application (Previous Contact).....................................................................................................32
Specific Practice Area (Administrative Law) ..............................................................................................33
U.S. Firm...........................................................................................................................................................34
U.S. Firm...........................................................................................................................................................35
2005 Career Development Resource Centre
1
University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law Section
Page 2 of 36
Welcome to Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

Why naked, you ask? Because were based on CBC Radio One Ottawas hit Naked Radio, in
which journalists are sent out into the community without any previous research no news
conferences, no media releases and told not to come back until theyve got a story. Theyre
naked, so to speak, because theyre without any of their traditional support networks.
We thought this might be a good analogy for you as you approach your first legal resume and
cover letter. Understandably, you might feel as if youve just been tossed out into a strange
town and told to do something youre not used to doing. This book is intended to help you
through that.
Please keep in mind that your resume and cover letter are incredibly personal documents.
Everything in this book is a suggestion and not a requirement. There are some accepted
formats and standards to which most resumes and cover letters tend to conform, but you
shouldnt feel absolutely compelled to abide by them. Above all, what you develop should
be something that youre comfortable with.
Whatever you do, DONT just copy the language in these examples word for word you
must make your resume and cover letter your own and copying these examples will surely
come back to haunt you in the job market!
Feel free to browse this book at your convenience and use it as a guide to your own legal
resume and cover letter. When youve gotten a good start, make an appointment with the
Career Development Resource Centre (CDRC) for a resume and cover letter review. Well sit
down with you for about 30 minutes and give you tips on making your resume and cover letter
more appealing to employers.
If you have any questions whatsoever, if you want to make an appointment for resume or cover
letter review, or if you just want to stop by and chat, come visit us in Fauteux 233D. Weve also
got tons of information and reference material on firms, government jobs, and social justice
opportunities. You can also reach us at 613.562.5800 x3292 or lawcdrc@uottawa.ca.
Best of luck!
CDRC Staff
Common Law Section
University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law
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How is a Legal Resume Different?

Since this is probably the first time youve had to do a legal resume, its worthwhile to briefly
outline some of the key differences between legal and non-legal resumes.
Typical Non-Legal Resume
Includes a Skills Summary section
Generally lists work experience first
May include a References available upon

request line
Does not list personal interests or
extracurricular activities
Legal Resume
Has no Skills Summary Section (usually
included in the cover letter)
Generally follows this sort of format:
Education
Academic Projects / Achievements
Law-Related Experience
Work Experience
Volunteer or Extracurricular Activities
Personal Interests
Has reference information on a separate sheet
which is included only when specifically
requested by employers
Lists personal interests and extracurricular
activities
The Short List Dos and Donts

Do:
Dont:
Self-evaluate: identify skills relevant to legal work (i.e., research, communication,

developing clientele please see below for an important note on Transferable Skills)
Be concise and consistent!
Get your information organised and in order
Take the time to read, re-read, re-read again and then have someone else do it for you
Say Law-Related Experience not Legal Experience youre not a lawyer yet
Put your name and phone number on the second page
Include CEGEP, if you went to school in Qubec
Use the words Resume or Curriculum Vitae as a heading

Use lengthy paragraphs
Include personal details such as age, marital status, SIN, etc.
Use any personal pronouns, such as I
Make grammatical or spelling errors
Go beyond two pages
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A Note on Transferable Skills

At this point in your legal career, you may feel that you dont have any useful legal skills to
include on your resume. Dont worry! Tons of the experience that you already have is important
to legal employers: theyre interested in skills that you can transfer to a legal position. It is all
about how you present your past work experience and your ability to make it relevant to an
employer by a cleverly drafted resume and cover letter.
Think about experience youve had where youve developed skills such as:
Advocating
Advising
Analysing
Assessing
Coordinating
Counselling
Communicating
Delegating
Documenting
Drafting
Editing
Evaluating
Influencing
Interviewing
Interpreting
Investigating
Managing
Marketing
Mediating
Negotiating
Networking
Observing
Organising
Persuading
Planning
Problem-solving
Public Speaking
Researching
Summarising
Supervising
Translating
Troubleshooting
* List adapted from the U of T 2003 Articling Handbook
Putting these verbs into bulleted phrases is an excellent method of integrating them into your
resume. In your cover letter you want to use these words when describing previous work
experience. Always remember in a cover letter you should not only describe a past experience
but also highlight what skills you developed from the experience.
Say what you did, then say what learned from it!
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Sample Resumes: First Career Resumes

Jackie Academic
242 Rideau Street
Ottawa, Ontario
K1N 4B7
Telephone: (613) 567-5420, Email: jacad002@uottawa.ca
Education
2000-2003
Bachelor of Laws, University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law

Major Research Project Defamation in Canadian
Cyberspace
Ranked 4th out of 160 students
Winter 2001
Intensive Alternative Dispute Resolution Program, University

of Ottawa, Faculty of Law
1997-2000
Bachelor of Arts, Honours, University of Toronto

Major Criminology, Minor Sociology, History
1996-1997
Certificate in Criminology, Kwantlen University College,

Surrey, BC
Academic Awards and Achievements
Graduated summa cum laude (2003)

Maintained Deans List Standing (2000-2003)
Achieved Faculty Scholar Awards (2001-2003)
Achieved Woodsworth College Students Association Scholarship (1999)
2002-2003
Research Assistant
Professor Common University of Ottawa, Faculty of
Law
Researched, edited, and summarized case law,
legislation and articles for Prof. Austins Canadian
Intelligence Law
Designed and programmed the law schools website
5
2002-2003
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Fundraiser/Internet Co-ordinator
University of Ottawa, Community Legal Clinic
2002-2003
Managed for fundraising and disbursement

Instructed Caseworkers on use of the Network and
HTML programming
Third Year Extracurricular Representative

Common Law Students Society
2001-2002
Organized Graduation Pictures and Graduation Ball
Caseworker
University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic
Landlord/Tenant Division
Represented clients successfully before Ontario Rental

Housing Tribunal
Acted as Duty Counsel before Ontario Rental Housing
Tribunal
Prepared Statements of Defence for Small Claims
Court
Mediated before Landlord Tenant Mediation Services
Years of musical training in both voice and piano

Lead role in high school musical Anything Goes
Week-long conference in the Dominican Republic on

Aboriginal and Developing World Issues
Personal Interests
Music
Travel
Jackie Academic
Telephone: (613) 567-5420, Email: jacad002@uottawa.ca
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Tara Extracurricular
7 Lombardo Dr
Ottawa, Ontario
K2L 6C9
(613) 727-6589, taraextra@hotmail.com
Education
2001-Present
1998-2001
English Common Law Section (LL.B.)

University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law (to be conferred: May 2004)
Ranked 14th in first-year class of 118.
Awarded Carswell Book Prize for highest standing in Torts.

Honours in Business Administration (H.B.A)
Richard Ivey School of Business
University of Western Ontario (London, Ontario)
Academic Projects
2002-2003
Advanced Debt Financing and Restructuring

A descriptive paper on the available defences to the presumption
of Fraudulent Preferences during a bankruptcy situation.
2001-2002
Civil Liberties
The diminution of constitutional protection for commercial
expression, including a prescriptive test to contextualize
Charter scrutiny.
2002-2003
2002 Canadian Corporate/Securities Law Moot Competition

Represented the University of Ottawa as one of four members
of the 2002 Corporate/Securities Law Moot team.
Placed 4th overall in a field of 20 competitors.
2001-2002
First-Year Contract Law Tutorial Instructor

Conducted bi-weekly lectures covering full-year curriculum
to 20 students.
Met with students on a one to one basis.
Administered practice exams.
2000-2001
First-Year Assistant, Civil Division, University of Ottawa

Community Legal Clinic
Assisted upper-year worker in case preparation.
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Other Work Experience

Summer 2003
Digital Heat Solutions (North York, ON)

Partner
Founded a 3-person computer consulting company with
experience in Internet Consulting and Database Management.
Managed a budget of $175,000.
Supervised two people of a five-person staff team.
Summer 2002
The ARA Consulting Group Inc. (Toronto, ON)

Research Assistant
Updated data analysis and electronic database of 2001
construction industry statistics.
Community Involvement and Extra Curricular Activities

2002-2003
Business Law Student Society

Founding Member and Director of Networking (elected Co-Chair
for upcoming 2003-2004 year)
2001-2002
Inter Pares (Faculty of Law Student Newsletter)

Publication Co-Editor
2000-2001
H.B.A. Student Council Executive

Yearbook Editor
2000-2001
Western Business School

Private Tutor, Undergraduate Business Course (Business 257)
1998-2000
Volunteer Western Tutor Program

Program Commissioner and Volunteer Tutor
Activities and Interests

Travel Highlights
Spent three weeks backpacking through 7 European cities
Worked for a summer at management services firm in Hong Kong
Tara Extracurricular, (613) 727-6589, taraextra@hotmail.com
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Carl Criminal Focus

224 Laurier Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario
K3L 4B8
(613) 797-4425, carl.c.focus@sympatico.ca
Education
2001-Present
Baccalaureate of Laws (LL.B.)

University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario
To be conferred: May 2004
1998-2001
Bachelor of Business Administration

Bishops University, Lennoxville, Quebec
Sep. 2002May 2003
Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa

Articling & Career Development Assistant
Assisted law students regarding resumes and job search
techniques
Assisted in the delivery of career services programming
Sept. 2001April 2002
Criminal Law Tutorial Instructor

University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law
Conducted bi-weekly lectures covering full first year
curriculum course work in Criminal Law & Procedure
Prepared model case briefs, memoranda and practice
exam answers
Summer 2001
Teacher Enrichment Program

Criminal Law: The Basics
Taught a University mini-course on the fundamental
principals of criminal law, procedure & sentencing
April 2001
Guest Lecturer
Earl of March Secondary School, Kanata, Ontario
Provided a seminar on the defence of mental disorder
and recent developments in this area of law
9
March 2001
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Legal Research Assistant

R.C.M.P. Commission of Inquiry
Conducted research for Professor Article regarding
protests during the 1997 APEC Conference in
Vancouver, B.C.
Provided case law for a background paper on police
power of assault, excessive force, detention and false
imprisonment
Directed Research Papers & Projects

Jan-May 2003
Issues of Race & Racism in Judicial Decision-Making

Process
Background paper for the National Judicial Institute
(Ottawa, Ontario)
Sep-Nov 2002
Charter Arguments at Preliminary Inquiries: The Law &

Rationale
Course work research undertaken for Professor Internship
Jan-May 2001
Assessing the Appropriateness of Mandatory Minimum

Sentences
Directed research supervised by Professor Article
Community Activities & Interests

2002-2003
Editor of Inter Pares Newspaper

A news and opinion newspaper forum for law students
1999
Poet
Published in RE/VISION 1999 (George Brown Coll. Press,
Toronto)
Carl Criminal Focus

(613) 797-4425, carl.c.focus@sympatico.ca
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Ava General
101 St-Laurent Boulevard
Ottawa, Ontario
K2L 5J9
Tel: (613) 324-4675
Email: agene072@uottawa.ca
Education
2002-Present
Baccalaureate of Laws (LL.B.), University of Ottawa

Commencing 2nd year in Fall 2003
Summer 2003
Seton Hall Law School

Summer Law Program in the Middle East at the
American University in Cairo, Egypt
1999-2002
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), University of Alberta

Major: Political Science, Minor: History
Awards and Accomplishments

2002
Trekked alone through the Annapurna Range of the

Himalayas
2000-2002
Deans Honour List, three years in a row, University of

Alberta
1999
Hunter-Cumming University Entrance Scholarship
2002-2003
Volunteer, University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic

Trained in procedures and assisted upper year students
with cases
Winter 2003
Research Assistant, University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law

Researched and organized a Clinical Legal Education
Conference
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Summer 2002
Researcher, National Association of Women and the Law

Prepared background research for recommendations to
the Justice Minister on the Canadian Human Rights Act
Other Work Experience
2001-2002
North American Model United Nation Conference,

Delegate, Toronto
Team work that involved research, negotiation, and
public speaking
Selected as one of 500 students in North America to
attend the conference
2000-2001
Reporter, CJSR Radio, University of Alberta

Developed and produced a radio program which
focused on Canadian politics
Conducted live interviews of MPs, candidates, and
political science professors
1999-2000
Reporter, Gateway Newspaper, University of Alberta

Researched news stories and conducted interviews
Wrote biweekly articles
Personal Interests
Active in Tennis, Softball & Volleyball

Active in drama including participation in Ottawas
Fringe Festival and Ottawas Great Canadian Theatre
Company
Ava General
Tel: (613) 324-4675
Email: agene072@uottawa.ca
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Janice A. American-Firm
230-190 Lees Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2N 5T6
613.565.2838 jamer039@uottawa.ca
EDUCATION
University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Candidate for Baccalaureate of Laws (LL.B.), expected May 2004
Second Year: Ranked 3/180 (GPA 9/10 = A)
First Year: Ranked 121/180
Articles editor for the Ottawa Law Review, 2002-2003
Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada
Bachelor of Arts with Honours (B.A.H.), May 2001
Major: Political Science
Graduated on the Deans List
LAW-RELATED EXPERIENCE
Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Adjudication Support Unit, Ottawa, Ontario,
Canada
Para-Legal Specialist, May August 2003
Researched points of law relevant to pending disciplinary hearings
Summarized decisions of both the Adjudications Discharge and Demotions
Boards
National Association of Women and the Law, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Pro Bono Students Canada Placement, September 2002 April 2003
Researched and wrote memoranda on womens legal issues on a pro bono basis
Presented final report to the National Organizing Committee
Look It Up Research Ltd., Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Research Analyst, September 2002 May 2003
Researched the impact of foreign trade agreements on developing countries
INTERESTS
Sailing, Golfing, Amateur Theatre
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Sample Resumes: Second Career Resumes
Lynda Baystreet
401-1407 March Road
Kanata, Ontario, Canada
K1N 8J1
Phone: 613.270.8831 Email: lynda.b@rogers.com
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
2001 Present
Baccalaureate of Laws (LL.B.) (First Class Honours)

English Common Law Section
1990 1994
Bachelor of Social Sciences (B.S.S.) (Magna Cum Laude)

Majored in Political Science
ACADEMIC AWARDS
2003
2003
2002-2003 and 1991-1994
Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt Scholarship, for academic

excellence and community involvement
Association of Professors Scholarship, University of
Ottawa
Deans Honour List, University of Ottawa
LAW-RELATED EXPERIENCE
2002-Present
Hearing Officer, Trade-Marks Opposition Board

Industry Canada, Hull, Quebec
Conduct oral hearings and write decisions
regarding expungement proceedings under Section
45 of the Trade-marks Act
Work 30 hours a week while a full-time law student
2002-2003
President, Common Law Students Society

Managed a 600-member student society
Participated in the following committees:
Curriculum, Examinations, Faculty Council and
English Program Assembly
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PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
1998-2001
Junior Vice-President, Accounting

Nortel Communications Inc., Ottawa, Ontario
Directed a budget for a multi-million dollar
technology company
Produced Nortels budget strategy for each quarter
1996-1998
Political Relations Officer

Nortel Communications Inc., Ottawa, Ontario
Developed and managed and a the companys
relationship with federal, provincial, and municipal
governments
Acted as senior Nortel representative at numerous
committee and board hearings
1994-1996
Constituency Assistant, Joe Politics, MP

House of Commons, Ottawa, Ontario
Researched and wrote a 451 page report on the
impact of the metric system in Canada, entitled
Celsius or Fahrenheit? A Burning Vision for the Future
Managed a political office, including timetabling,
communications, and correspondence for a busy
MP
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
2002-2003
2002-2003
2002
1994-1998
Student Member (elected), Senate, University of Ottawa

Student Member (elected), Senate Committee for the
Evaluation and Teaching of Courses, University of Ottawa
Orientation Leader, Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa
Big Sister, Big Sisters Ottawa
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Travel: canoed partway up the Amazon river, lived in a Buddhist temple for 3
months, and swam with dolphins off the coast of New Zealand
Theatre: played Dorothy in the Ottawa Little Theatres production of The Wizard of
Oz and sang Memory from Cats on the NAC Southam Stage as part of a Big Sisters
fundraiser
Fine Art: had a piece shown in MOMA, New York
Lynda Baystreet
613.270.8831
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Amy A. Academic
769 Russell Avenue
Ottawa, ON K5G 1H7
(613) 563-5499
amyacademic@yahoo.ca
EDUCATION
Baccalaureate of Laws, University of Ottawa
2000-2003
Graduated with First Class Honours standing
Participated in a 3-week intensive Alternative Dispute Resolution
training session in first year
Coordinator, Women in the Law, in first and second years
Masters in Legal Studies, Queens University
1990-1993
Masters thesis entitled Judicial Activism in Sentencing: A Critical
Analysis of (White) Feminist Law Reform Strategy
Thesis passed with distinction
Bachelor of Arts (Honours), University of Waterloo
1986-1990
Majored in Law and Criminology
Honours thesis entitled Constructed Consent: Sexual Assault and the
Courts
Executive Director, Criminology Students Association, in second and
third years
RECENT ACADEMIC PROJECTS
A Fiddle, A Faddle: The Provocation Defence in Sexual Assault Cases
2003
Supervisor: Professor McLaw
Won the Law Union award for best academic paper
Equality? Yes, Sir! Gender Bias and the Court Martial Process
2002
Supervisor: Professor Bar-Ads
Interviewed 26 Canadian Forces personnel
Presented the paper to the Women in the Law annual conference
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LAW RELATED EXPERIENCE

Tutorial Leader, University of Ottawa
2001-2003
Conducted a bi-weekly reviews of substantive first-year Contracts
material
Provided feedback individually and to the group
Legal Research Assistant, Correctional Services Canada
2001-Present
Investigate human rights developments as they pertain to inmates
and employees of federal penitentiaries
Conduct legal research surrounding sexual harassment and assault in
the workplace
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Coordinator, Sexual Assault Services, Kitchener-Waterloo Mental Health Program
1995-2000
Developed and implemented a program with regional police and
Crown Attorneys to improve the response to sexual assault
Developed, organized and delivered sensitivity training for police
officers
Researched and wrote funding proposals to government bodies
Coordinated sexual assault awareness workshops
Public Education Supervisor, Sexual Assault Services, Middlesex County, Ontario
1993-1995
Organized and delivered numerous public education events
Researched and wrote the Public Education manual
Trained Public Education volunteers
Staffed the 24 hour crisis line
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Green belt in Goju Ru Karate

Certified diver with lots of practice
Enjoy a fine opera: saw Figaro in Milan
Amy A. Academic: (613) 563-5499, amyacademic@yahoo.ca
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Patrick Secondcareer
401 King Edward, Apt. 11
Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 5G2
(613) 239-2934, patrick.secondcareer@sympatico.ca
Education
2001-Present
Baccalaureate of Laws (expected date of graduation May 2004)

Faculty of Law, Common Law Section, University of Ottawa
Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP entry scholarship - 2001
1986-1987
Bachelor of Education / Ontario Teaching Certificate

Faculty of Education, University of Toronto
Honours Specialist, English and Music
1984-1985
Master of Arts
School of Graduate Studies, University of Ottawa
Master of Arts in English Literature
1980-1984
Bachelor of Arts
Erindale College, University of Toronto
Bachelor of Arts in English and Philosophy
2002-2003
Competitive Moot Team, Frank M. Callaghan Memorial Moot

Criminal and Constitutional Law, Ontario Court of Appeal
Placed 3rd overall in a field of 25 teams
2002-2003
Tutor, Academic Support Program

Provided academic assistance to first-year Aboriginal
students on legal writing, research, and exam preparation
2002-2003
Pro Bono Students Canada, Office of the Childrens Lawyer

Ministry of the Attorney General, Ontario
Researched custody and child protection law
Reviewed files, wrote case briefs and updated internal
database
Assisted with facta and appeal preparation
Observed and assisted counsel during trials
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Law-Related Experience Continued

Summer 2002
Legal Research Assistant

Ms. Exam, Ontario
Researched municipal and regional by-laws
Wrote memoranda regarding minor variances and nonconforming land uses severance of land
Professional Experience
1987-2001
Secondary School Teacher / Consultant English, Math and

Music
Peel District Board of Education, Mississauga, Ontario
Promoted to Assistant Head of English and Chair of Summer
School
Supervised all aspects of daily operations, including policy
implementation, teacher hiring, professional development,
curricula, examinations, inventory and budgets
Conducted in-service training sessions on writing and
evaluations for 30+ principals and senior administrators,
and 500+ teachers
Presented seminars at provincial teacher training
conferences
Seconded to the Ontario Ministry of Education to evaluate a
province-wide standardized test of high school reading
skills
Served as Branch Executive Officer, Ontario Secondary School
Teachers Federation (Vice-President, 1998-2000; Professional
Development Representative, 1996-1998; and Excellence in
Education Representative, 1994-1996)
Sponsored numerous student extracurricular activities,
including dramatic and musical productions, field hockey
and volleyball teams, yearbook and student council
Activities and Interests
Performer, Opera Mississauga, City Centre Repertory Opera,

Credit Valley Players, Toronto Gilbert & Sullivan Society,
Abbey Players
Mystery dinner theatre
Crosswords
Golf
Patrick Secondcareer
(613) 239-2934, patrick.secondcareer@sympatico.ca
*Much thanks to the University of Toronto Handbook, whose sample resume provided most of the content for this resume.
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Natalia National Accreditation

171 Lees Avenue, Apartment #307
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2P 1J8
(613) 863-1120 or (613) 564-3948
natalia_national@yahoo.com
EDUCATION
2002-Present
National Accreditation Student

University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law
Presently in year one of a two year program
2001
H&R Block Tax Preparation Certificate

Scarborough, Ontario
1996-1997
Certificate in Accounting
Association of Accounting Technicians, London, UK
Completed courses in the following subject areas:
Financial Accounting, Cost Accounting & Budgeting,
Analysis & Design of Information Systems,
Organization & Financial Control, and Economics
1994
Diploma in Journalism (English)

Aquinas College of Higher Studies, Colombo, Sri Lanka
1989-1992
Attorney-at-Law
Supreme Court of Sri Lanka
Graduate of the Sri Lanka Law College, Colombo, Sri
Lanka
Awarded second-place prize in the Ex-Tempo speech
contest
LEGAL EXPERIENCE
2002-Present
First-Year Volunteer
University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic
Assist student caseworker with client interviews
Attend court with caseworker
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LEGAL EXPERIENCE (continued)

2000-2002
Legal Secretary/Assistant
Mr. Legal, Barrister & Solicitor, Scarborough, Ontario
Drafted legal documents
Conducted legal research and pre-trial preparation
Prepared records and court exhibits
Liaised with external agencies, lawyers, courts and
tribunals
1997-1999
Lawyer
Sole Practitioner, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Appeared before all levels of court and tribunals
Provided legal advice and opinions
Drafted pleading, facta, court documents and
contracts
1993-1997
Associate Lawyer
Sivanantham & Associates, Attorneys-at-Law, Colombo, Sri
Lanka
Handled both criminal and civil matters
Referred clients to senior counsel, provided case briefs
and participated in consultation and trial processes
Attended pre-trial negotiations and fixed cases for trial
INTERESTS
Travelling
Swimming
Surfing the Internet
Natalia National Accreditation

(613) 863-1120 or (613) 564-3948
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Ryan B. American-Firm
206-2293 Range Road
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2A 1Y7
(613) 203-7770, ryan.american-firm@sympatico.ca
Education
University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Ottawa, Canada
Candidate for LL.B., Expected May 2004
Awarded Faculty of Law Entrance Scholarship

Queens University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
M.Sc. Computer Science, May 1995
Thesis entitled: IBM versus Apple: Fusion or Confusion?
Awarded the Wheelock Academic Scholarship, September 1993 and 1994

Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada
B.Sc. Computer Science, May 1993
Graduated on the Deans List
Awarded the B.J. Demmings Memorial Scholarship, September 1989

Trade-Marks Opposition Board, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Hearing Officer, Summer 2003
Conducted oral hearings and assessed summary expungement proceedings

University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Caseworker, September 2002 April 2003
Represented low-income clients in civil matters

Pre-Law Experience
CompuTec Corporation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Project Manager, May 1998 August 2001
Managed project development for large-scale Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

software
StartUP.com, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Technical Support Agent, May 1995 January 1998
Provided first-level technical support to corporate clients
Installed and repaired web services at client sites

Interests
Cooking, Yoga, Gardening
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Sample Cover Letters: Department of Justice

Marc International
57 Louis Pasteur Street, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5 (613) 111-2222 m_international@hotmail.com
19 April 2003
Mr. Moot Court
National Coordinator of the Legal Excellence Program
Department of Justice
Urbandale Building, 100 Metcalfe Street
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H8
Dear Mr. Court:
Re: 2004-2005 Articling Position with the Department of Justice
Please accept my application for employment as an articling student for the 2004-2005 term. I am a
second year student at the University of Ottawa in the English Common Law program and am eager to
build a career with the Department of Justice.
The variety of opportunities afforded to articling students greatly appeals to me as I seek a wellbalanced articling experience with rotations in Legal Services, Law and Policy, Civil Litigation and
Advisory Services. More specifically, I am interested in the Human Rights, Indian and Northern
Affairs and Family, Children and Youth sections. I believe that my work and volunteer experience will
allow me to make a significant and meaningful contribution to the Department of Justice.
I value and share the Departments commitment to people, integrity and public service and am
confident that my previous experience reflects this commitment. This summer, I will remain at the
University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic in the HIV/AIDS division, where I have been a
caseworker for the past year. This position has developed my legal research, writing and advocacy
skills and afforded me practical experience in various areas including drafting legal memorandum and
interpreting employment and human rights legislation. Recently, I was elected to serve on the Clinics
Steering Committee. Members of the Steering Committee work as a team and are responsible for
determining all policy and administrative matters concerning the Clinic.
In May 2001, I assumed the position of co-coordinator for Pro Bono Students Canada at the University of
Ottawa. Over the year, my primary responsibility was to develop projects for students wishing to do
volunteer legal work benefiting disadvantaged members of society. This has enhanced my leadership,
communication and organizational capacities. These skills have been further strengthened through my
work with Amnesty International where I am active at the national level facilitating educational
workshops in human rights issues.
I wish to thank you in advance for your consideration of my application. Please find enclosed my
resume, university transcripts and two letters of reference. I look forward to discussing the ways in
which I can contribute to the Department of Justice.
Yours truly,
Marc International
Enclosures
23
Page 24 of 36
Clerkship
July 29, 2003
Sally Student
199 Lawyer Street
Ottawa, ON, K2R 7N5
Ms. Patricia Recruitment
Chamber of the Chief Justice of Canada
Supreme Court of Canada, Supreme Court Building
301 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON, K1L 0J1
Dear Ms. Recruitment:
Re: Clerkship Application-2003
I am writing to express my great interest in a clerkship position with the Supreme Court of Canada,
commencing in 2004. Please find enclosed my curriculum vitae, official post secondary school transcripts and
application form PSC-3391. My reference letters will follow shortly.
My legal education at the University of Ottawa has enabled me to pursue my interest in law and social
justice, an interest that began at a young age as the child of recent immigrants. I have thoroughly enjoyed applying
my legal skills for the benefit of financially underprivileged clients at the University of Ottawa Community Legal
Clinic. My experience in the Womens Division has exposed me to such areas as human rights and aboriginal law,
and has taught me a great deal about advocacy, professional conduct, legal reasoning and the importance of clarity
in writing. The prospect of furthering my legal education at the Supreme Court is exciting for me. I have a strong
interest in legal policy and administrative law. A clerkship position would be an invaluable opportunity to
experience firsthand the dynamics between judicial reasoning and legal advocacy.
My commitment to leading a well-balanced and fulfilling life has contributed to my academic success. My
experience as a teaching assistant for first year property law has given me the opportunity to sharpen my critical
and analytical skills as well as to contribute to the community in which I live. As Academic Coordinator for our
student government I have kept abreast of significant issues and have acted as a liaison person between students
and faculty. Writing a thesis for my MA at Queens University honed my research and writing skills and these skills
have been further developed this year in my position as a junior editor for the Ottawa Law Review.
An important complement to my academic pursuits has been my extra-curricular activities. Prior to
studying law, I worked as full-time professional dancer in various contemporary and classical dance companies in
Canada and the U.K. I have continued to pursue my professional dance career on a part-time basis by teaching and
performing and this has been an invaluable opportunity to enhance my communicative abilities and remain in
touch with an important aspect of my identity.
I am very interested in a clerkship position with the Supreme Court of Canada and I am confident that I
am well equipped to meet the needs of the judges at the Court. As a steering committee member of the student
chapter of CLAIHR (Canadian Lawyers Association for International Human Rights), I am self-directed, motivated
and committed to any project for which I am responsible.
Thank you for considering my application. I can be reached by phone at (613) 222-3333 or by email at
sstud093@uottawa.ca. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Sally Student
Enclosures
24
Page 25 of 36
Specific City Firm (note that special care must be taken to identify a specific tie to the city of
application if other than Toronto i.e. Vancouver in this case.)
Paul Student
111 Lees Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5M1
(613) 555-4434
studentpaul@sympatico.ca
August 15, 2003
Ms. Christine Academics

Student Program Co-ordinator
Newman & Company
Suite 2800-666 Burrard Street
Vancouver, BC V6C 2Z7
Dear Ms. Academics:

Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for summer employment at Newman &
Companys Vancouver office for 2004. As a second year student in the University of Ottawas Common
Law program, I am most interested in the depth and scope of your Administrative Law and Alternate
Dispute Resolution practice. In particular, I am intrigued by the work of your Human Rights and
Labour and Employment groups. I would welcome the opportunity to work in Vancouver as it is my
goal to join my family there and settle on the West Coast after graduation.
Working as a legal assistant at Michel Baldwins Ottawa office exposed me to the fields of
Corporate-Commercial law, as well as Administrative and Human Rights law. During that time, I
became increasingly fascinated by the fields of employment and human rights litigation. As I reviewed
and organized a variety of files, researched and edited numerous documents and pleadings, I began to
grasp the depth of opportunities that exist in these areas. I feel that my time working at the University
of Ottawa as a Liaison Information Officer, and at the Human Resource Centre of Canada for Students
fostered the strong organizational and interpersonal skills required in litigation practice.
I view law as essentially an exercise in problem-solving, with the people behind the problems (be
they individuals or corporations) forming the basis of my passion for the process. I offer this passion,
along with my commitment to excellence in work and study to the practice at Newman & Company. I
believe that my experience working and communicating with people from all walks of life would
adapt well to the diversity of your practice. I would relish being able to make a significant contribution
through a broad range of projects and work.
I have enclosed my resume and a copy of my academic transcripts for your review. I would be
pleased to meet with you to discuss any questions or interest you might have in my experience. I look
forward to hearing from you, and thank you for your consideration of my application for a summer
position at Newman & Company.
Yours truly,
Paul Student
Enclosures
25
Large Firm
Page 26 of 36
(note that no specific city tie is given, this is appropriate for Toronto)
Mike Smart
25 Laurier Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 2J9
July 20, 2003
Mr. Joe Case

Spencer Spaulding
40 King Street West
Toronto, Ontario M2L 3C3
Dear Mr. Case:

Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for summer employment for 2004
at Spencer Spaulding. In speaking with Barbara Graduate (articling student 2002-2003), I
became interested in the challenges presented by your business law practice. I believe that as
a second year law student with a strong business background I could contribute effectively
to the work of your firm in the areas of corporate finance and taxation. I am particularly
attracted to Spencer Spaulding because as a large full-service firm, it offers the opportunity
to be exposed to high caliber work in a wide range of practice areas.
Through my work at William Jenkins this summer, I became increasingly fascinated by the
field of business transactions. As I reviewed and organized a variety of files, I began to grasp
the depth of opportunities that exist in these areas. I feel that my time working at Export
Development Canada as an Assessment Officer and at Nortel as a Business Analyst fostered
the strong organizational and interpersonal skills required in corporate practice.
I view law as essentially an exercise in problem-solving, with the people behind the
problems (be they individuals or corporation) forming the basis of my passion for the
process. I offer this passion, along with my commitment to excellence in work and study to
the practice at Spencer Spaulding. I look forward to working with a team of lawyers and
tacking with great enthusiasm the kind of in-depth research that will present itself.
I have enclosed my resume and a copy of my academic transcripts for your review. I would
be pleased to meet with you to discuss any questions or interest you might have in my
experience. I look forward to hearing from you and thank you for your consideration of my
application for a summer position at Spencer Spaulding.
Yours sincerely,
Mike Smart
Enclosures
26
Large Firm
Page 27 of 36
(note specific city tie to Ottawa)
July 10, 2003

Lily Legal
27 Lees Avenue North
Ottawa, ON, K1S 5M2
Marler & Parker
Attn: Bill Appeal
45 OConner Street, 20th Floor
Ottawa, ON, K1P 1G8
Dear Mr. Appeal,
Re: Articles 2004-2005
Please accept this application as my formal request for an articling position at Marler & Parker in 20042005.
I am interested in litigation, particularly in the areas of administrative law,
corporate/commercial, environmental and intellectual property. However, to ensure that I attain a
well-rounded practical experience upon which to advance my career, I hope to be exposed to many
aspects of the legal practice during my articles. I am particularly interested in Marler & Parker because
of your commitment to exposing students to a variety of practice areas during the articling experience.
Throughout my academic and employment experiences I have developed several key skills that will
serve as foundation to a successful legal career. Working as a student advisor I developed my
interpersonal skills and learned how to listen to clients and help meet their concerns. As a manager at
a McDonalds restaurant, I gained valuable human resources experience, developed strong
organizational and time management skills and fostered my ability to be both a leader and a team
player. I have extensive legal research and writing experience. As part of a field placement course, I
researched and wrote policy recommendations for the Department of Justice on the implementation of
the new Privacy Act. This past summer I completed a large research project for Professor Smalley on
the tort of invasion of privacy. This project culminated in my writing a one hundred page report of my
findings. I am continuing to develop my research and analytical skills this fall, as I am currently
employed as a research assistant for Professor Clerk, working in the area of Criminal law.
I believe that with my research and drafting skills and my ability to manage numerous files, that I
would complement a large firm like Marler & Parker. I work competently as a part of a team and I look
forward to the varied experience only a firm of your size is able to provide. Ottawa is my home and I
am looking to forge a long-term commitment to a firm in this city.
Thank you for your consideration of my application. I can be reached at your convenience by phone at
(613) 598-2658 or by email at lily_legal@yahoo.ca. I look forward to expanding on these matters in an
interview.
Sincerely,
Lily Legal
Encl.
27
Page 28 of 36
Medium Sized Firm

June 29, 2003
Jack Application
2 Cumberland Avenue North
Ottawa, ON, K3Z 4B9
Bark, Simon
Attn: Ms. Mindy Career
20 Elgin Street, Suite 400
Ottawa, ON, J3L 2B7
Dear Ms. Career,
Re: Articles 2004-2005
Please accept this application as my formal request for an articling position at Bark, Simon in 20042005.
I am interested in litigation, particularly in the areas of administrative law,
corporate/commercial, environmental and intellectual property. However, to ensure that I attain a
well-rounded practical experience upon which to advance my career, I hope to be exposed to many
aspects of the legal practice during my articles. I am particularly attracted to Bark, Simon as I am very
impressed by the flexibility offered in your articling program.
My academic performance indicates an ability to grasp legal concepts in traditional black letter law
courses, but does not illustrate the entire picture. I have excellent time management skills and am able
to successfully multi-task. While attending law school full-time, I participated in extra-curricular
activities and supported myself with a part-time job. In addition, during my time at law school I have
been an editor with the Ottawa Law Review, a legal research assistant, a caseworker at the University
Legal Clinic, a peer tutor, and have actively participated on various committees. My active
participation in all aspects of life at the law school has honed by ability to work effectively and
efficiently while successfully balancing academic and extra-curricular activities.
I believe that I would complement a medium-size firm like Bark, Simon because of my ability to
develop a rapport with, and attract prospective clients, while managing numerous files. I work
competently as a part of a team and I look forward to the varied experience only a firm of your size is
able to provide. Additionally, my office and computer skills will allow me to work individually and
require little secretarial support.
Ottawa is my home and I am looking to forge a long-term commitment to a firm in this city.
Thank you for your consideration of my application. I can be reached at your convenience by phone at
(613) 369-8521 or by email at jackapplication@hotmail.com. I look forward to expanding on these
matters in an interview.
Sincerely,
Jack Application
Encl.
28
Page 29 of 36
Variations on a Theme
Below you will find some examples of a how a student has varied his/her cover letter depending on where or
when applying. First you will see Paula Students application for summer employment, followed by her
application for articles the next year. Next Paul Student sends a letter to a large firm seeking summer
employment where he has no prior connection to the firm essentially the cold call equivalent to a cover
letter. This is followed by a similar type of cover letter (also to a large firm) but one in which the student has
made a connection to the firm thus allowing him to rely on this prior networking to his advantage.
Summer Application
Paula Student
57 Louis Pasteur Street
Ottawa, ON, J6X 9H7
Ms. Jenny Lawyer
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
Scotia Plaza, 40 King Street West
Toronto, Ontario M5H 3Y4
Dear Ms. Lawyer:
Re: Application for Summer 2004 Employment
Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for summer employment for 2004 with Borden Ladner Gervais
LLP. As a second year student at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law Section, my law school
experience thus far has sparked an interest in several areas of law in which your firm excels. In particular, your labour
and employment, matrimonial and entertainment law practices are of great interest to me. I welcome the opportunity to
learn more about these fields of law over the course of the summer of 2004.
In the summer of 2000, I prioritized my academics by enrolling in three courses and setting a personal goal of graduating
with honours in political science from McGill University. In achieving this goal, I developed strong research and
presentation skills, and a dedicated work ethic. I have carried these abilities over into my study of law, and am proud of
my attainment of second-class honours in my first year courses.
My work background is unique in its diversity. I have worked as a room attendant at a resort, as a clerk in a clothing
warehouse, and as a research assistant on Parliament Hill. These wide-ranging work experiences have taught me how to
work in time-pressured environments, the importance of teamwork and the passion required for dedication to ones job.
From these, I will bring an open-minded and collaborative effort to your firms environment, and enthusiasm to any
endeavour I undertake.
Additionally, I enjoy being actively involved in my community, which allows me to broaden my interpersonal, analytical,
and problem-solving skills. During my first year, I wrote for Inter Pares, our law school newspaper, and this coming year I
will be the editor in chief. This past summer I was the Orientation Week Coordinator for the Common Law Students
Society in which I fundraised and planned a week of events for 250 incoming students.
I have enclosed my resume and academic transcripts for your review. I would be pleased to meet with you to discuss any
questions you may have in further detail. I can be reached at: (613) 321-1234 or by email at: pstudent@hotmail.com.
Thank you for your consideration of my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
Paula Student
Enclosures
29
Page 30 of 36
Small Boutique Firm Application

Paula Student
Ottawa, ON, J6X 9H7
June 15, 2004
Lola Law
Shibley Righton LLP
250 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M5H 3E5
Dear Ms. Law:
Re: Application for Articling for 2005-2006
Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for a 2005-2006 articling position with Shibley
Righton LLP. As a third year student at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law Section,
I was extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity this past summer to explore my interest in labour
and employment law at Mathews, Dinsdale and Clark LLP as a summer associate. During my summer I
strengthened my research and interpersonal skills through the preparation of legal memoranda and in
assisting with grievance arbitrations and hearings at the Ontario Labour Relations Board. This invaluable
experience has reinforced a serious desire to become an advocate and I welcome the new legal challenges
a firm like Shibley Righton will present for me. I especially look forward to bringing my experiences with
labour and employment law into such areas as municipal law, construction law and real estate; fields in
which your firm excels. I welcome the opportunity to learn more about these fields during the course of
my articling year.
During my two years at the University of Ottawa, I have developed essential skills that I believe will aid
me greatly during my articling year. I was chosen to compete with a partner in the Mathews, Dinsdale and
Clark Labour Arbitration Moot Competition which reinforced my interest in advocacy and improved my
research and presentation skills. I enjoy being actively involved in my community which allows me to
broaden my analytical and problem-solving skills. This past year I had the pleasure of serving as the editor
in chief of Inter Pares, our law school newspaper for which I continue to write. Last summer I served as
the Orientation Week Coordinator for the Common Law Students Society in which I fundraised and
planned a week of events for 250 incoming students. I also anticipate running for an elected position on
the Common Law Students Society executive for the coming school year.
My work background is unique in its diversity. I have worked as a housekeeper at a resort, as a clerk in a
clothing warehouse, and as a research assistant on Parliament Hill. These broad work experiences have
taught me how to work in time-pressured environments and the importance of teamwork. From these, I
will bring an open-minded and collaborative effort to the Shibley Righton environment and enthusiasm to
any endeavour I undertake.
I have enclosed my resume and academic transcripts for your review. I would be pleased to meet with you
to discuss any questions you may have in further detail. I can be reached at: (613) 321-1234 or by email at:
pstudent@hotmail.ca. Thank you for your consideration of my application, and I look forward to hearing
from you.
Paula Student
Encl.
30
Page 31 of 36
Summer Application (Cold Call)
Paul Student
#1 -22 Plover St., Ottawa, ON K1Y 3E3; (613) 222-3333; paulstudent@yahoo.com
September 8, 2004
Ms. Patty Amendment
Director of Professional Recruitment
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
1200 Waterfront Centre
200 Burrard Street
Vancouver, BC V7X 1T2
Re: Application for 2005 Summer Student Position
Dear Ms. Amendment,
Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for a summer position with Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
(BLG). The opportunity to gain valuable experience with a vigorous business law firm, such as yours, that takes a
carefully crafted and strategic approach to professional development is truly exciting. As a second year student, I
share the same values of commitment to professional excellence, innovative thinking and an atmosphere of
unfailing collegial respect and I am keen to explore my interests in global business, trade and energy law. I look
forward to establishing my legal career in my hometown of Vancouver and I believe that BLGs emphasis on
personal integrity, quality of work and active involvement in the community would be a great fit for me.
I would bring to your firm a strong academic background combined with practical legal experience. As
demonstrated by my academic success in first year, I am able to effectively balance my studies, professional
development and extra-curricular interests. Through my work as a research assistant with legal practitioners in the
Ottawa community and my volunteer placement with Pro Bono Students Canada, I was able to expand my
understanding of legal concepts and enhance my research and analytical skills. Furthermore, my involvement in
student government and in founding the International Trade Law Students Association demonstrates my energy and my
capacity to be a leader amongst my peers. These experiences have been of great benefit to me in my current
position as the facilitator of the Career Development Resource Centre, where I counsel my fellow students on their
career choices while gaining a strong understanding of the diverse opportunities available in the legal profession.
Moreover, I feel my international experience and entrepreneurial background complement BLGs community of
motivated and intellectually curious individuals who take initiative in business development and thrive in a collegial
environment. My experiences in founding Bomba Magazine and organizing tours from Japan to Romania were
invaluable training for me. Similarly, my work overseas as a high school teacher and summer camp director taught
me to adapt quickly to different team dynamics. Along the way, I have developed excellent organisational abilities
and the effective cross-cultural and interpersonal skills that are essential in a client-centered and time pressured
corporate environment.
I am a dedicated and driven individual who seeks out new challenges and I work hard to obtain my goals. I believe
that my enterprising spirit, versatility, and passion for business and the law, complemented by my academic and
professional background, demonstrate the valuable contribution that I can make to your firm. Thank you for
considering my application and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Paul Student
31
Page 32 of 36
Summer Application (Previous Contact)
Paul Student
#1 -22 Plover St., Ottawa, ON K1Y 3E3; (613) 222-3333; paulstudent@yahoo.com
September 8, 2004
Ms. Laura Professional
Director, Student Programs
Ogilvy Renault
Suite 3800, Royal Bank Plaza South Tower
200 Bay street, P.O. Box 84
Toronto, ON M5J 2J2
Re: Application for 2005 Summer Student Position
Dear Ms. Professional,
Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for a summer position with Ogilvy Renault. In speaking
with Samantha Litigation, an associate with your Ottawa office, I have learned about the opportunities presented
by your dynamic business-oriented law firm that aims to offer seamless international legal services and has earned a
reputation for its international trade law practice. As a second year student, I share the same values of professional
excellence, creativity and personal initiative and I am keen to explore my specific interests in international business,
trade and energy law. I believe that Ogilvys client-centred style of practice and commitment to long-term growth,
coupled with its collegial atmosphere and a flexible approach to student professional development would be a
great fit for me.
I would bring to your firm a strong academic background combined with practical legal experience. As
demonstrated by my academic success in first year, I am able to effectively balance my studies, professional
development and extra-curricular interests. Through my work as a research assistant with legal practitioners in the
Ottawa community and my volunteer placement with Pro Bono Students Canada, I was able to expand my
understanding of legal concepts and enhance my research and analytical skills. Furthermore, my involvement in
student government and in founding the International Trade Law Students Association demonstrates my energy and my
capacity to be a leader amongst my peers. These experiences have been of great benefit to me in my current
position as the facilitator of the Career Development Resource Centre, where I counsel my fellow students on their
career choices while gaining a strong understanding of the diverse opportunities available in the legal profession.
Following my conversation with Ms. Litigation, I feel my international experience and entrepreneurial background
complement Ogilvys focus on versatile and intellectually curious individuals who take initiative in business
development and thrive in a team-work environment. My experiences in founding Bomba Magazine and organizing
tours from Japan to Romania were invaluable training for me. Similarly, my work overseas as a teacher and camp
director taught me to adapt quickly to different team dynamics. Along the way, I have developed excellent
organisational abilities and the effective cross-cultural and interpersonal skills that are essential in a client-centered
and time pressured corporate environment.
I am a dedicated and driven individual who seeks out new challenges and I work hard to obtain my goals.
I believe that my enterprising spirit and passion for business and the law in an international context, complemented
by my academic and professional background, demonstrate the valuable contribution that
I can make to your firm. Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Paul Student
32
Page 33 of 36
Specific Practice Area (Administrative Law)

Joey Article
Ottawa, Ontario
K1F S5X
(613) 888-4545, shawnmorsely@rogers.com
June 20, 2003
Mr. Samuel Legal
Fraser & Roger
26 King Edward Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario
K7R 5E6
Dear Mr. Legal:
Re: Articling for 2004-2005
I am currently enrolled at the Common Law program at the University of Ottawa and am applying for
an articling position with your firm for the 2004-2005 term. My interest in Fraser & Roger stems from
my strong desire to practice with a firm that specializes in civil litigation and administrative law.
Much of my interest in these areas of law is a result of my involvement with the Community and Legal
Aid Services Programme at the University of Ottawa. As the Administrative Law Division Leader at
the clinic in 2002-2003, I was responsible for all aspects of case management from initial intake to
representation at adjudicative hearings. I appeared before various tribunals, including the Social
Assistance Review Board and the Health Professions Board and successfully mediated an employees
sexual harassment claim at the Ontario Human Rights Commission.
I further developed my legal research, writing and advocacy skills as a member of the Innocence
Project, a Clinical Programme at the University of Ottawa that investigates cases of possible wrongful
conviction. Recently, the Innocence Project was granted intervener status in an appeal before the
Supreme Court of Canada. As a summer research assistant for Professor Research, director of the
Project, I co-drafted the notice of motion seeking leave to intervene before the Court as well as the
supporting affidavit. I was also primary researcher and author of two memoranda on the relevant
issues, and am currently assisting in the drafting of the Factum.
I believe that these experiences have allowed me to develop advocacy skills that will enable me to
contribute to your firm as an articling student. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you at
an interview to further discuss my application. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Joey Article
Encls.
33
Page 34 of 36
U.S. Firm
Otto W.A. River
26 Fisher Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario K6Q J2P
Canada
(613) 852-9637
m.rocks@sympatico.ca
July 29, 2003
Beverly Hills
Hiring Attorney
Sand & Stone
35 Quarry St.
New York, New York 10651
United States of America
Dear Ms. Hills,
Barney Rubble of Flint, Stones & Associates described your firm to me as one of the largest
American firms devoted exclusively to employment and labor law. Last Octobers article in
Some Journal, which recognized Sand & Stone as a leader in the field of labor and
employment law, further increased my interest in your firm. As a third year student at the
University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, with a demonstrated interest in labor and
employment law, I would welcome the opportunity to work with you as a summer
associate.
In the course of researching your firm, I learned that you seek candidates with strong
written, oral and communication skills, good academic credentials and a sincere desire to
practice labor law exclusively. I believe my background demonstrates these qualities. During
my undergraduate years, I was actively involved in the debating team and placed second in
a national competition. In addition, I have been selected to participate in the Labor
Arbitration Moot this upcoming academic year and received an A- in both Labor Law I & II
courses. I am also the Articles Editor of the Ottawa Law Review.
I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you at your convenience. You may reach me
at the address and telephone number listed above. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Otto W.A. River

Enclosures
34
Page 35 of 36
U.S. Firm
Frank Common
87 Slater Street
Ottawa, Ontario K8X 9K8
Canada
(613) 964-2589, fcomm012@uottawa.ca
August 15, 2003
Maurice Appeal
Recruitment Administrator
Happy & Lucky
700 Dollars Ave.
Boston, MA 02623
Dear Mr. Appeal,

I was very excited to hear about your firms formal commitment to pro bono work and was
further impressed by the 1997 ABA Pro Bono Award your firm received for its work in the
community. As a second year law student at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, I
have a strong, demonstrated interest in community service based law. I would welcome the
opportunity to work with you as a summer associate, as part of your Community Services
team.
I understand that Happy & Luckys summer associate program is structured to provide
exposure to as many practice areas as possible, as illustrated by the integral role the summer
associate division of the Community Services team played in recovering approximately
$2,100,000 for the survivors of the descendants of the Rosewater massacre. I welcome the
broad range of experience your summer associate program offers, as in addition to my active
involvement in the law school legal clinic, I have a strong interest in business law. I scored
in the top 10% of my Contracts and Business Associations classes. Further research of your
firm revealed your proposed formal professional relationships with law firms in South
America in 1999. Besides English, I also speak and write Spanish fluently.
If my experience and background meet your requirements for a summer associate, please
contact me at the address or telephone number listed above. I look forward to hearing from
you.
Sincerely,
Frank Common
Enclosures
35

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Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

Re: Application for Summer 2004 Employment...................................................................................... 29

Re: Application for Articling for 2005-2006.............................................................................................. 30

2005 Career Development Resource Centre

Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

Welcome to Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

2005 Career Development Resource Centre

Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

How is a Legal Resume Different?

May include a References available upon

The Short List Dos and Donts

Self-evaluate: identify skills relevant to legal work (i.e., research, communication,

Use the words Resume or Curriculum Vitae as a heading

2005 Career Development Resource Centre

Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

A Note on Transferable Skills

* List adapted from the U of T 2003 Articling Handbook

2005 Career Development Resource Centre

Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

Sample Resumes: First Career Resumes

Bachelor of Laws, University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law

Intensive Alternative Dispute Resolution Program, University

Bachelor of Arts, Honours, University of Toronto

Certificate in Criminology, Kwantlen University College,

Academic Awards and Achievements

Graduated summa cum laude (2003)

2005 Career Development Resource Centre

Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

Managed for fundraising and disbursement

Third Year Extracurricular Representative

Organized Graduation Pictures and Graduation Ball

Represented clients successfully before Ontario Rental

Years of musical training in both voice and piano

Week-long conference in the Dominican Republic on

2005 Career Development Resource Centre

Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

English Common Law Section (LL.B.)

Ranked 14th in first-year class of 118.

Awarded Carswell Book Prize for highest standing in Torts.

Advanced Debt Financing and Restructuring

2002 Canadian Corporate/Securities Law Moot Competition

First-Year Contract Law Tutorial Instructor

First-Year Assistant, Civil Division, University of Ottawa

2005 Career Development Resource Centre

Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

Other Work Experience

Digital Heat Solutions (North York, ON)

The ARA Consulting Group Inc. (Toronto, ON)

Community Involvement and Extra Curricular Activities

Business Law Student Society

Inter Pares (Faculty of Law Student Newsletter)

H.B.A. Student Council Executive

Western Business School

Volunteer Western Tutor Program

Activities and Interests

Spent three weeks backpacking through 7 European cities

Worked for a summer at management services firm in Hong Kong

Tara Extracurricular, (613) 727-6589, taraextra@hotmail.com

2005 Career Development Resource Centre

Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

Carl Criminal Focus