Today was my first day at my firm. Now I know why they call it "the golden handcuff."

When I was doing public interest work last summer, I was placed in a cubicle, brought my own laptop, had to pack or buy my lunch almost every day, and even had to make or bring food to our end-of-summer BBQ. My experience at this firm, in contrast, is completely different, even though it's only my first day.

Today, we were given a tour of the office, which consisted of three buildings. Then the recruiter showed us to our offices; I have a nice, spacious corner office on the second floor. I haven't met my secretary yet, but apparently I have one. I'm getting a Blackberry tomorrow (not sure if that's a good thing; I don't think so). Free drinks are available in every floor and in the cafeteria. And when I told them I was planning on packing lunch, all the attorneys told me that I should never because there will always be an attorney willing to take me out to lunch.

We had a welcome luncheon at John Bentley's. I had one of the best filet mignon of my life there. It was simply delicious.

Tomorrow, my mentors will be taking me to Tamarine Restaurant, which is actually where I wanted to go for awhile now.

I know the economy is shit right now, but I'm really enjoying my experience. Today confirmed that I did make the right choice picking this firm. The people are extremely nice and very genuine. I can tell just by the way they interact with one another, the way they dress, and the way they talk about the firm and their experience. It really is a nice culture to be a part of. I don't even care if I don't get an offer at the end of the summer. Well, I actually do care, but given the state of the economy, I won't be surprised if they don't give a handful of us offers. Regardless, I don't regret picking this firm because it is the best fit for me...for now.

It's only the first day, but that's my expression thus far. Every time I visit them again, I feel very comfortable and welcome. I hope it stays that way.

Spring break officially starts today for me; although my last class was last Tuesday. I've been enjoying some R&R at home in Los Angeles with my family. I'm flying back to my place tonight and will be heading to NY with my boyfriend and friends on Wednesday.

I've been entertaining the idea of starting my own website. I started blogging since I was 16, created two/three websites when I was in high school/college, but neglected them all. Now, I'm trying to get back into it? Do I even have the time? If I do create my own website, it will be anonymous. I find that I write more freely when people don't know who I am. Plus, I will be entering the work force next year (hopefully) and I don't want my website/blog to jeopardize my professional reputation. I'll let you know if I end up following through with it, although I am very doubtful.

I have started thinking about clerkship. Last week, I narrowed my list to 100 judges, ranging from District Court judges to appellate judges -- all in the Ninth Circuit. I know 2009 clerk hiring will be very brutal because people are going to try and ride out the economic recession by clerking, so competition will definite be up. The process is quite intimidating as well, but if I don't try, then I'll never know. One of my mentors told me to write individualized cover letters for each judge. I think that's just pure insanity.