Masterclass- The Art of Mingling

November 13, 2012
Milstein East

What is Masterclass?

“Masterclass: The Art of Mingling” is a program and cocktail reception that will give you concrete tools to use during law firm receptions. Most people are uncomfortable entering a room where they don’t know anyone. At the Masterclass, you’ll learn strategies to make these situations easier and less stressful. These techniques will help you now and during your 1L summer, and you’ll put them to constant use this winter when meeting with employers. They can help you get a job – and they can help you secure an offer from your summer employer.

Logistics

The program will consist of an hour-long workshop (6-7pm; registration @ 5:30pm) that will provide a how-to on gracefully navigating any reception. The workshop will be followed by a cocktail meet-and-greet (7-9pm) where you’ll be able to apply your new skills while navigating an actual cocktail reception with attorneys from prominent law firms from around the country. The skills you’ll learn at this event will increase your likelihood of success during your job search – now and during the winter.

What Law Firms Will Be Attending?

The following firms are sponsoring Masterclass and will be sending attorneys to network with you at the reception:

• Arnold & Porter
• DLA Piper
• Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer
• Gibson Dunn
• Goodwin Procter
• Hogan Lovells
• Jenner & Block
• Latham & Watkins
• Miller & Chevalier
• Schulte Roth & Zabel
• Shearman & Sterling
• Simpson Thacher

Masterclass FAQs 

What should I wear to Masterclass?
Business casual attire is requested. Business casual includes a range of clothing, but it typically involves slacks or a suit-type skirt, along with a button-down shirt or nice sweater. The attorneys that you will be meeting with might be in suits themselves, so you can always dress more formally than the dress code requires, but do NOT dress too casually (no jeans!).  

Should I bring my resume with me to Masterclass?
NO – employers will not be collecting resumes at the event. Leave them at home.

I have another commitment before Masterclass.  Is it okay to arrive late?
Although we are expecting students to arrive on time for the 6pm program (registration begins at 5:30pm), we understand that this might not be possible for everyone. If you need to arrive late, please note this when you RSVP or send an email to ocs@law.harvard.edu.

I’m not interested in working for a law firm. Should I still attend Masterclass?
YES – the skills you will learn and then practice at the reception are important no matter what career path you choose. Networking plays a very large roll in every type of job search.