Do You Need to Pick a Practice Area Before OCI?

OCI is approaching and you're stressed because every application asks about your practice area interest and you genuinely don't know. Relax. You're in good company.

The Short Answer: No

Most firms hire summer associates as generalists. You'll rotate through departments during your summer and often don't need to choose a group until you start as a full-time associate, sometimes not even then.

Firms know that 2Ls haven't practiced law. They don't expect you to have your career mapped out.

What to Say in Interviews

You need something better than "I don't know," but you don't need a declaration of lifelong commitment. Good approaches:

• Express genuine interest in two areas. "I'm drawn to both M&A and litigation. I enjoyed my Contracts and Civ Pro classes, and I'm looking forward to exploring both during the summer." This is honest, reasonable, and shows you've thought about it.
• Connect to your background. "I studied engineering in undergrad, so I'm interested in IP litigation, but I'm also curious about corporate work." Tying your interests to your experience feels authentic.
• Show curiosity. "I'm interested in restructuring because of the mix of litigation and transactional skills, but I want to keep an open mind." This signals thoughtfulness without overclaiming.

What Not to Say

• Don't claim a passionate commitment to a practice area you know nothing about. Interviewers will ask follow-up questions.
• Don't say "whatever makes the most money." Even if it's true.
• Don't refuse to answer. Having no preference at all can read as not caring.

Why It Doesn't Matter Much

Firms want smart, hardworking people who they'd enjoy working with. Your practice area interest is a conversation starter, not a hiring criterion. No firm rejects a strong candidate because they said "corporate" instead of "litigation."

Pick a direction that feels honest, be ready to explain why, and focus your energy on the things that actually determine OCI outcomes: grades, interview skills, and preparation. Browse firms and their practice areas in our firm directory to develop informed talking points.