Application Guide

How to Apply for Staff Attorney

at Project on Predatory Student Lending

🏢 About Project on Predatory Student Lending

The Project on Predatory Student Lending is the first legal services practice solely dedicated to representing postsecondary students harmed by predatory practices. It uniquely combines direct legal services with impact litigation to hold corporations and the government accountable, making it a trailblazer in this niche field.

About This Role

As a Staff Attorney, you will independently prosecute complex impact litigation in areas like anti-discrimination, consumer protection, and antitrust. Your work will directly challenge predatory lending practices and elevate the voices of student borrowers, creating systemic change through strategic litigation.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve drafting motions or briefs for an ongoing class action, strategizing with co-counsel on discovery tactics, and meeting with clients to discuss their experiences. You might also spend time researching new legal theories for potential cases and preparing for oral arguments or settlement negotiations.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Project on Predatory Student Lending Is Looking For

  • Has at least 3 years of relevant legal experience, with demonstrated success as lead counsel in civil litigation, preferably in plaintiff-side class actions or consumer protection.
  • Possesses a deep understanding of student loan law, higher education regulations, or predatory lending practices.
  • Excels at translating complex legal concepts for diverse audiences, including clients, media, and policymakers.
  • Is licensed and in good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdiction, with willingness to be admitted pro hac vice as needed.

📝 Tips for Applying to Project on Predatory Student Lending

1

Highlight any experience with impact litigation or cases involving systemic harm to vulnerable populations, even if not directly related to student loans.

2

Emphasize your ability to work independently and manage a full caseload, as the role requires self-direction.

3

Mention any familiarity with the Project's past cases or publications; show you've researched their docket.

4

If you have experience with pro bono work or legal aid, connect it to the mission of holding powerful entities accountable.

5

Tailor your cover letter to specifically address how your skills align with the job description's litigation areas (e.g., antitrust, consumer protection).

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your commitment to social justice and holding predatory actors accountable, especially in the context of student lending.', "Specific examples of litigation you've led or significantly contributed to, particularly class actions or impact cases.", 'Your ability to work collaboratively with community partners and translate legal strategies for non-legal audiences.', 'Your understanding of the unique challenges faced by student borrowers and why this work is urgent.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review the Project's recent docket and landmark cases, especially those involving for-profit colleges or student loan servicers.
  • → Read their blog or press releases to understand their messaging and advocacy style.
  • → Look into the legal frameworks they commonly use, such as state consumer protection laws or Title IX.
  • → Familiarize yourself with key partners or coalitions they work with, like student borrower advocacy groups.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a case where you served as lead counsel and how you managed the litigation strategy.
2 How would you approach developing a new impact litigation case from a client's story?
3 What is your experience with consumer protection statutes like the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act or Truth in Lending Act?
4 How do you balance the demands of multiple complex cases and prioritize tasks?
5 Discuss a time you had to explain a legal concept to a client or community group without legal training.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't reference the Project's specific mission or cases.
  • Failing to demonstrate experience as lead counsel or handling complex litigation independently.
  • Ignoring the remote nature of the role; don't assume it's less demanding or requires less collaboration.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Project on Predatory Student Lending!

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