I hope this doesn't come off sounding trite, but...

Do you have ideas about what you might want to do (or even what you might NOT want)? Questions, connections, classes, and opportunities can flow from there a lot easier than just generally asking: how do I not work at a firm?

One thing I found helpful was to start with the scenario of working in a firm (or some other situation where money was not a concern). Then, what pro bono projects would you want to work on? Why? What would you want to do outside of work (for fun or civic duty, whatever)... Generally, then things you'd want to do when money is no object reveal a bit about what we are passionate or at least stimulated by. Then, start asking and thinking about how that can be a bigger part of what you do.

Our safety net for thinking outside of the box is HUGE, as we are given so much privilege and credit (and resources) just for having the Columbia name attached to ours.

-- MiaWhite - 16 Apr 2008