The Mai Tai Question for Young White-Collar Lawyers

Here’s the recipe for a Mai Tai.

A Mai Tai is not really a Thanksgiving cocktail, but it reminds me of something I’ve always wanted to ask an interviewing law student.

Long ago, when I was junior at Washington & Lee, a history course (the “History of Venice,” I believe) taught by Professor Jefferson Davis Futch III required “permission of the instructor” before one could enroll.  I went to the Department of History, knocked at Professor Futch’s door and was given leave to enter.

I said that I was here for permission to take the course

He considered me for a moment, said “Let’s see,” leaned back in his chair — the office was so full of books you could hardly move —  and asked: “How does one make a Mai Tai?”

I fumbled through the recipe.  “Close enough,” he said.  “You can take the course.”

This interview season, I think I will ask that question.  Especially of the students who say they want to do white-collar work.