Carter Byrum

The Hon. Jason Pulliam – U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Texas

How did you get your job?

I found out about the opportunity through the Office of Career Strategy. I sent my cover letter, resume, and writing sample to one of Judge Pulliam’s law clerks and an internship offer was extended to me the following week.

What did you like most about your job?

The Hon. Pulliam was very generous with his time, and I really enjoyed getting to hear his thoughts on cases before the court. He would discuss upcoming hearings with the interns, we would observe the hearings, and afterward Judge Pulliam would share his thoughts on things like the strength of counsel’s arguments and the likelihood of the case settling before trial. Hearing directly from the judge on matters before the court was an incredible experience.

How do you think this experience helped you in your career path?

First, observing various civil and criminal hearings exposed me to things I had not been exposed to in my first year at St. Mary’s Law. I had no interest in being a trial attorney before the internship; however, I could now see myself potentially pursuing a career as a trial attorney. Second, Judge Pulliam and his law clerks were always willing to discuss my career path and the best way to pursue my goals. I think getting the advice of accomplished attorneys will help me as I navigate my legal career during and after law school. Third, the internship solidified my intention to clerk for a federal judge after law school.