In the 2023-2024 NALP Business Plan, NALP President Tony Waller created a First Year Diversity Recruiting Task Force to investigate and research the current state of first-year diversity hiring. In January 2024, the NALP First Year Diversity Recruiting Task Force provided a set of preliminary "Best Practices" in advance of their final work, which will be forthcoming in April 2024. As a reminder, all hiring programs should be reviewed by counsel for compliance with federal and state law.
Download preliminary "Best Practices" for first-year diversity recruiting (PDF)
Organizations within the legal community have provided information regarding their diversity programs, initiatives and events. To have your organization's information included here, send a short description and a link via email with the subject line "Diversity Information" to Lisa Quirk, lisa@nalp.org.
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Farella Braun + Martel 1L Diversity Scholarship
Over 20 years ago, Farella Braun + Martel created our Diversity Scholarship Program to assist Bay Area law students who meet our eligibility requirements to defray some part of their legal education expenses. We have awarded $635,000 in scholarships to 92 first-year law students in the Bay Area. In 2024, we will award a total of $45,000 in scholarship grants to be divided equally among three first-year law student recipients. All completed applications must be received by March 6, 2024. Find more information on our website.
Foley & Lardner’s 2L Diversity Fellowship Program & 1L LCLD Program
Foley & Lardner LLP is dedicated to fostering an environment that embraces differences, promotes equality, and engenders mutual respect, thereby creating a culture of inclusion where everyone has the opportunity to excel. In furtherance of this goal, Foley provides opportunities for both first-year and second-year law students.
Our Diversity Fellowship Program for second-year law students offers fellowships to students who share our values and demonstrate a commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. Each Diversity Fellow receives a weekly salary throughout the 10-week program, plus a $50,000 taxable fellowship, which will be paid in two installments: $20,000 following successful completion of the firm’s Summer Associate Program, and $30,000 paid within 30 days after joining the firm as an associate/law graduate.
Applications will be accepted from second-year J.D. students enrolled in an ABA-accredited law school, regardless of race, gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic or condition protected by applicable law. In addition to applying for the fellowship through our career portal, applicants must apply to at least one of our office’s summer programs in order to be eligible. Interested applicants should apply with a current resume, unofficial or official law school transcript (including complete grades for all completed law school semesters), and a personal statement (approximately 500 words in length) describing your background, accomplishments, or leadership experience that would help you contribute to our diversity mission/promoting diversity at our law firm and within the community.
Through our partnership with the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (“LCLD”), 1L students will have the opportunity to participate in the firm’s 1L LCLD Scholars Program. All first-year law students who have accepted an offer to join Foley’s Summer Associate Program are eligible to apply for our 1L LCLD Scholar positions. This will include participating in the 1L LCLD Scholars Virtual Experience, a professional development series which will consist of panel discussions, distinguished speakers, networking opportunities with LCLD members and each other, and mock interviews; joining a LinkedIn group dedicated to 1L LCLD Scholars; and receiving invitations to future LCLD events.
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/M/F/Vet/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without consideration to their race, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status or medical condition.
To learn more and apply, click here.
WilmerHale 2024 Summer Associate – 1L LCLD Scholar
WilmerHale is a leading, full-service international law firm with over 1,000 lawyers located throughout 13 offices in the United States, Europe and Asia. Our lawyers work at the intersection of government, technology, and business. Since the earliest days of our two legacy firms, WilmerHale has played a leading role in historic events and landmark cases that have shaped the nation and left their mark across the globe. In matters ranging from the Army-McCarthy hearings to the legal defense of civil rights, from the 9/11 Commission to the restoration of the rule of law in apartheid-torn South Africa, our lawyers have been privileged to make contributions that have profoundly affected our society and our profession.
The firm is looking for 1L LCLD Scholars to join either our New York, NY or Washington, DC summer program! The LCLD Scholar Program will provide you with an opportunity to work side-by-side with attorneys from LCLD Member organizations. Scholars will gain valuable professional experiences and be introduced to the value of relationships and building networks with LCLD Members. LCLD Scholars will spend 8 weeks with WilmerHale in either our New York or Washington, DC office, and 2 weeks with one of our clients.
Interested students should visit the job openings page of our career website for more information and to apply. The application will be open until January 31, 2024.
WilmerHale 2024 1L Diversity Public Interest Fellowship
Consistent with WilmerHale’s long standing commitment to public service and organizations addressing social justice, we are pleased to post our 1L Diversity Public Interest Fellowship Program for first-year law students. The recipients will be awarded a $10,000 stipend for the 2024 summer to work in a public interest legal position or a judicial internship. Recipients are expected to secure their own summer position by April 26, 2024. Recipients who interview for the 1L Fellowship and are later interested in the WilmerHale 2L Summer Associate Program may be asked to bypass the screening process and earn an automatic callback.
Interested students should visit the job openings page of our career website for more information and to apply. The application will be open until January 31, 2024.
Cullen and Dykman and NJAW Diversity Fellowship
Cullen and Dykman and New Jersey American Water (NJAW) share a commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. To further this collective goal, we have teamed up to offer law students who demonstrate a personal dedication to this effort a unique summer work experience where the fellow will be able to experience both law firm practice and in-house legal practice within the same summer.
The fellowship is awarded annually to one first year (or second year evening) law student committed to contributing meaningfully to the diversity of the legal community. The fellowship is a paid position that spans two summers. During the first summer, the fellow will spend five weeks working in one of Cullen and Dykman’s office locations (to be determined on a case-by-case basis), where the fellow will have the opportunity to experience the firm’s various practice areas while interacting with many different partners and associates. The fellow will then spend five weeks in the Legal Department of New Jersey American Water, where the fellow will gain the experience and perspective of an in-house attorney at a New Jersey utility.
In the second summer, after successful completion of the first summer, the fellow will receive an offer to join Cullen and Dykman’s Summer Associate Program and will be considered for an offer of full-time employment at the firm following law school graduation.
Applications will be accepted from eligible law students through February 29, 2024
For additional information regarding the Cullen and Dykman LLP and NJAW Fellowship, please visit our website.
Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt 1L Diversity Fellowship Program
Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt is committed to fostering the growth of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the firm to reflect the rich diversity of our society and to grow diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. We believe that diverse legal teams provide superior service to our clients and improves the inclusiveness of our firm.
As one means of promoting diversity and inclusion at Schwabe, the firm long has offered opportunities for 1L students to gain real-world experience as summer associates at Schwabe. For the summer of 2024, Schwabe is again offering its 1L Diversity Fellowship Program. The fellowship provides for a paid 9-week summer associate position in either our Portland, Oregon or Seattle, Washington office for the summer following the successful completion of the first year of law school. In addition, the recipients will receive a $10,000 academic stipend to help defray tuition and expenses for their second year of law school.
Please visit our website (https://www.schwabe.com/client-commitment/careers/summer-associates/) for more information and to apply. Applications will be accepted until 5:00pm on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.
Ballard Spahr: 2024 1L Diversity Fellowship
Ballard Spahr is excited to host our 2024 1L Diversity Fellowship Program in several office locations. Through this program, we will select outstanding 1L students who will be employed by Ballard Spahr as 2024 Summer Associates. The students will also have the unique opportunity to spend some time working as an intern in the legal department of one of our partner organizations. 2024 1L Diversity Fellowships will be hosted in the following office locations: Baltimore, Denver, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Salt Lake City, and Washington, DC. Please visit our website for more information and to submit an application.
Application materials must be submitted here through the online application by the January 15, 2024 deadline to be considered for this fellowship. Your transcript may be submitted after the deadline if necessary.
Best Best & Krieger LLP 2024 First Year Law Student Diversity Fellowship/Scholarship Program
Best Best & Krieger LLP is committed to recruiting, hiring, developing, promoting and retaining attorneys and staff of diverse backgrounds. The value of diversity for our clients comes from the melding of differing experiences, cultures, talents, viewpoints and styles to drive creative and innovative solutions. Our diversity allows us to leverage different perspectives to approach complex legal issues in a way that provides the best outcome for our clients.
With these goals in mind, BBK is pleased to offer our First Year Law Student Diversity Fellowship/Scholarship Program. This Program will provide the recipient with a paid summer associate position in our participating offices: Irvine, Los Angeles, Sacramento, Ontario, Riverside and San Diego, CA. To qualify for the $10,000 scholarship, the recipient student must be invited and must return to BB&K the following summer. The $10,000 scholarship will be paid following completion of the student’s second summer with the firm. The application will be open Dec. 1, 2023 through January 26, 2024.
Please click here for more information and to apply.
2024 Chief Justice Henry E. Frye – Brooks Pierce Diversity Summer Fellowship
At Brooks Pierce, we are dedicated to fostering diverse and inclusive environments within our Firm, the communities in which we practice, and the legal profession as a whole. Diversity of life experiences and perspectives enriches these communities and provides a broader perspective for appreciating and solving problems—the core of the lawyers’ charge. We are committed to increasing access to careers in the legal profession. We are proud to announce the 2024 Chief Justice Henry E. Frye – 1L Brooks Pierce Diversity Summer Fellowship, honoring our colleague, a groundbreaking jurist and leader in the North Carolina bar. Applications are now being accepted. Please visit our website for application requirements and more information.
Smith Anderson Excellence in Diversity 1L Fellowship
Smith Anderson, the largest law firm headquartered in the globally recognized Research Triangle region, is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in our firm, the legal profession and the greater business community. We seek to attract, develop and retain attorneys who share this commitment and who demonstrate the potential to make a positive contribution toward diversity and inclusion in the place we live and work, and that hundreds of companies, including science and technology firms, startups, nonprofits and academic institutions, call home. In furtherance of this commitment, we are proud to offer the Smith Anderson Excellence in Diversity 1L Fellowship.
We seek applications from first-year students who are enrolled full-time at ABA-accredited law schools; who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion through their activities, background and life experiences, as well as members of groups that have been historically underrepresented in the legal profession, including first-generation college students and those from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds; and who are interested in practicing law in the Research Triangle region (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill). This fellowship program may not be combined with any other diversity fellowship opportunity.
To apply for a fellowship, please submit application materials via Smith Anderson’s website (Law Students, Excellence in Diversity 1L Fellowship). We will accept application materials between October 2, 2023 and January 5, 2024.
Van Ness Feldman Diversity Fellowship: Seattle and DC
As part of Van Ness Feldman’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are proud to offer the Van Ness Feldman 1L Diversity Fellowship to an outstanding first year law school student. The Fellow will receive a paid 1L Summer Associate position in either our Seattle or DC office and a $10,000 scholarship to assist with law school tuition. The Fellowship also includes the opportunity to continue as a VNF Diversity Fellow during the student’s 2L summer, which includes an additional $10,000 scholarship; and a possible offer for full-time employment with signing bonus post law school.
First year students who demonstrate a commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion are encouraged to apply. Please see vnf.com for more information or send an email to Saira Rhodes at slr@vnf.com.
Morrison Foerster Keith Wetmore 1L Fellowship for Excellence, Diversity, and Inclusion
The Keith Wetmore 1L Fellowship for Excellence, Diversity, and Inclusion is designed to provide exceptional law students with a demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion in the legal profession with the training, mentorship, and exposure necessary for their professional development and engagement. The fellowship is just one of the many ways Morrison Foerster actualizes its commitment to removing barriers and creating opportunities for talented individuals with diverse experiences in the legal industry.
Each year, fellows are selected from a competitive pool of applicants and are invited to join the firm as paid summer associates. Upon successful completion of the fellowship, fellows have the option to return as 2L summer associates.
Fellows receive a payment of $50,000 (in addition to summer associate pay), which is distributed in up to two installments contingent upon satisfactory completion of each Summer Associate Program and acceptance of an offer to return as a 2L summer associate and/or at the acceptance of a full-time associate offer following law school graduation. Since 2012, we have awarded 144 fellowships.
The deadline for the 2024 1L Wetmore Fellowship Program is January 31, 2024. For more information about the fellowship and/or Morrison Foerster’s other 1L opportunities, please visit MoFo To-Go.
White & Case 1L Diversity Fellowship
The diversity of our lawyers is a source of strength, and the nature of our clients’ needs requires collaboration across borders. We attract students who prioritize learning about different cultures, experiences, languages and viewpoints. Our mission is to continue to build upon this strength and create an environment where all who work here are encouraged, supported and inspired to reach their potential. Our proud commitment to inclusion has made us an employer of choice worldwide.
As a White & Case 1L Diversity Fellowship recipient, you will participate in all aspects of our ten-week Summer Program in Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Silicon Valley or Washington, DC, including our Launch Your Career Program in New York. Fellows will also partake in our training sessions, ongoing mentorship opportunities, networking with our lawyers and social events. You will also gain valuable insight into what we do and what it means to practice law simply by working with and observing our lawyers. We know that timely and meaningful feedback is important to your professional growth, and you will receive feedback regarding your work over the course of the summer. A successful fellow will be invited to return to the Firm for the following summer.
The selection process is highly competitive, and a successful candidate will possess:
Applications will be accepted from 1L law students from December 1 through January 8. For more information on how to apply, please visit our careers website.
White & Case 2L Diversity Scholarship
Our 2L Diversity Scholarship provides holistic support to students to help them flourish in a professional environment through financial aid, mentorship and professional development.
Scholars participate in all aspects of the US Summer Program, including training sessions, the Launch Your Career Program, networking with Firm lawyers and social events. We provide business skills training, including networking, interfacing with clients, building a social media presence and adjusting to the corporate environment. In addition, scholars receive one-on-one mentorship from a partner and an associate and have regular check-ins with a member of our Diversity & Inclusion team. Scholars are paired with a personal coach. Coaching helps people think differently about themselves and their situations, and see possibilities that may not have been evident before. Finally, scholars are matched with a financial advisor to learn how to manage their personal finances and how to plan for the future.
Financial support
Applications will be accepted from incoming 2L law students in June. For more information on how to apply, please visit our careers website.
Keker, Van Nest & Peters LLP Diversity Scholars Program
Keker, Van Nest & Peters is now accepting applications for its 2023 Diversity Scholars program. The program offers scholarship money and mentorship to 1Ls whose background or experience would contribute to the diversity of the legal progression and have an interest in pursuing a litigation career in the Bay Area. This year, KVP will award up to $75,000 in scholarship grants, split between up to four deserving students.
More information and applications can be found on our firm's website, and questions can be sent to scholarshipapplications@keker.com.
The application deadline is February 3, 2023.
Weil 1L Diversity Fellowship
Weil is offering a progressive 1L Diversity Fellowship up to $50,000. The scholarship is contingent upon accepting an offer of summer employment at Weil. The application process is open to all law school students who fulfill the fellowship’s eligibility requirements. The Weil 1L Diversity Fellowship Program application is available at careers.weil.com. An internal selection panel will evaluate all applications, considering factors such as overall commitment to diversity, work experience, and academic achievement. Fellowship applications are considered by the committee on a rolling basis.
For more information visit https://careers.weil.com/-/media/7c77029d48d341b6a134800e5fe188bf.ashx.
Williams Mullen 1L Diversity Fellowship
Diversity at Williams Mullen is a core value, not a catch phrase. We understand that a diverse and inclusive workplace makes us better at what we do – serving our clients and our communities. We are committed to employing a diverse workforce that is inclusive of race, sex, color, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, religion, nationality, age, disability, marital and parental status and veteran status.
The firm will award two 1L law students with (1) a $3,000 scholarship to be applied to the student’s second year tuition and (2) a paid 6-week position in Williams Mullen’s 2023 Summer Associate program in our following offices: Richmond, VA; Virginia Beach/Norfolk, VA; or Raleigh, NC. This award is contingent upon accepting an offer of summer employment at Williams Mullen.
Pennsylvania Association for Justice Diverse Mentoring Initiative
The PAJ Diverse Mentoring Initiative (DMI) is open to any first-year law student who meets one or more of the following criteria: (1) they have overcome a significant and unusual obstacle in the pursuit of a legal career; (2) they come from a background or are a part of a group that is underrepresented in the legal profession; and/or (3) they come from a disadvantaged background.
In keeping with PAJ’s commitment to ensuring inclusivity in all PAJ programs, activities, policies, publications, and practices, PAJ’s new program is intended to place diverse 1Ls from across the country into plaintiff’s firms in Pennsylvania.
Successful applicants will be provided with a paid clerkship this upcoming summer (2023), mentorship and networking opportunities. The application is now open and will remain open until the January 31, 2023. Learn more by visiting our website, www.pajustice.org/page/DiverseMentoringInitiative.
Cox Castle Mario Camara 1L Diversity Scholars Program
Cox Castle is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the firm and the legal profession, particularly the real estate bar. Our 1L Diversity Scholars Program is named in honor of the firm’s former managing partner Mario Camara. When Mario became managing partner in 1987, Cox Castle became the first Top 50 Los Angeles County law firm to have a managing partner of Latino heritage. 1L Scholars participate in Cox Castle’s 10-week summer associate program in our Los Angeles office. 1L Scholars receive valuable practice experience, work closely with our attorneys, and have the opportunity to attend associate trainings, team meetings, and client and other firm-sponsored events, to ensure they have a rewarding summer experience. Mentorship is also an equally important part of our summer associate program. Our mentors help guide our Scholars through all aspects of the summer program and assist them in building the foundation for being a successful lawyer.
For our 2023 summer program, 1L Scholars will be compensated by the firm at the standard summer associate salary and will be eligible to receive an additional scholarship of up to $15,000 paid as follows: After completing the 1L summer associate program, Scholars will be awarded a scholarship of $5,000. Cox Castle may offer 1L Scholars the opportunity to participate in the 2L summer associate program. Cox Castle will award an additional $10,000 upon completion of the 2L summer associate program to those who receive and accept an offer to return to the firm as an entry-level associate after graduation.
The 1L Diversity Scholars Program is open to first-year students belonging to groups that have been historically underrepresented in the legal profession (such as members of racial or ethnic minority groups, veterans, differently abled students, LGBTQ+ students, and students from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds). Applicants also must be first-year J.D. students (with an anticipated graduation year of 2025) in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school. Successful candidates should have a record of academic achievement, leadership qualities, strong writing and interpersonal skills and a demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in real estate law in California after graduation. (Real estate law includes transactional commercial real estate, environmental, land use, and real estate litigation practices.)
For more information and to apply, please visit: https://www.coxcastle.com/careers/1l-diversity-scholars-program.
Gunderson Dettmer 1L Diversity Fellowship
We are excited to share that Gunderson Dettmer’s 1L Diversity Fellowship application is now open! This year, we are accepting applications for our Ann Arbor, Austin, Bay Area, Boston, Los Angeles, New York and San Diego offices. In addition to a paid Summer Associate position, Fellows will receive a scholarship of up to $40,000.
You can find more information about our 1L Diversity Fellowship in the Law Students section of our Careers site here and in the brochure linked here. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to recruiting@gunder.com.
Reed Smith Diversity Fellowships and Scholarship
At Reed Smith, we are passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion. Our core values are at the heart of everything we do; they represent who we are and who we want to be. Our mission is focused on the recruitment, retention, promotion and professional development of our diverse talent. Our firm offers a number of diversity fellowship opportunities that include 1L positions through the LCLD scholars program across our US offices. We also offer 2L fellowship opportunities in partnership with some of our clients such as BNY Mellon, and Citizens Bank. Our $20,000 Deborah J. Broyles Scholarships are offered to 2L candidates in addition to a summer associate position. Our summer program offers law students first-rate work in an informative, challenging and busy atmosphere where your contribution counts from day one. We also offer support and encouragement during the summer through our many programs and initiatives. For more information on our 1L LCLD positions as well as our 2L fellowships and scholarships, please visit our website at https://www.reedsmith.com/en/careers/regions/us-law-students to apply online.
Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter Diversity Scholarship
Each year, the Columbus, Ohio-based law firm of Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter awards a Diversity Scholarship to a first-year law student, based on academic performance, personal accomplishments, community involvement, and a commitment to diversity, equity + inclusion. The Diversity Scholarship recipient will join the firm’s summer associate class and receive standard summer associate compensation, as well as a $10,000 stipend upon the successful completion of the 2023 Kegler Brown summer program.
All first-year law students who will advance the diversity, equity + inclusion mission of Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter are eligible to apply. Applicants must be enrolled and in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school with an anticipated graduation date of 2025.
More information is available at https://www.keglerbrown.com/news/kegler-brown-now-accepting-applications-for-2023-diversity-scholarship/.
Goodwin 1L Diversity Fellowship
Goodwin’s 1L Diversity Fellowship provides first-year law students from historically excluded groups with the opportunity to be fully participating 1L summer associates in our 2023 summer associate program. Fellows will spend the ten weeks of the program working in their preferred Goodwin office and have the opportunity to spend the final four weeks of this time working at the direction of a Goodwin client. Fellows will also be invited to participate in the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity’s 1L Scholars Summit, and be eligible to earn an offer to return to Goodwin for their 2L summer along with additional scholarship opportunities. Candidates will be compensated by the firm for the full 10-week program at the standard summer associate salary.
The application for the program is open from now through March 10, 2023, but we encourage students to apply as early as possible and then follow-up with their first-semester transcripts once available. More information on the program can be found at https://www.goodwinlaw.com/careers/diversity-fellowships.
If you have any questions about the program, please feel free to reach out to us at fellowships@goodwinlaw.com.
Winston & Strawn 1L Diversity Scholars Program
At Winston & Strawn, greater diversity, equity, and inclusion is a high priority that starts at the top with our strategic business plan that guides firmwide development and operations. Winston & Strawn’s 1L Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD) Scholar program is a unique opportunity for diverse 1L law students to gain early experience working with world-class attorneys while developing strong mentoring relationships. LCLD Scholars at Winston will have the opportunity to attend the LCLD Scholars Summit and be able to spend part of the summer working directly with one of our clients as well as participating in the firm’s annual Diversity Roundtable. We are currently accepting applications for our 1L LCLD Scholars Program. Please submit your materials via our online application system.
1L LCLD Program Highlights:
Skadden 1L Scholars Program
At Skadden, we’ve always embraced the idea that a wide spectrum of inclusion and diversity only makes us better. Through our Skadden 1L Scholars Program, we are seeking talented, self-motivated law students whose life experiences, demonstrated interests and achievements can contribute to our firm’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and excellence. Our program offers 1Ls a rich career development opportunity by leveraging the resources and networks that only a global law firm like Skadden can provide. The application opens on December 1, 2022, and applications are due by January 3, 2023 for U.S. offices, and January 19, 2023 for the Toronto office. Visit skadden.com/recruiting to apply.
Wiley Diversity Scholarships
Wiley is proud of its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core pillars of our firm, and we contribute our success to the diversity of our firm–our people, our practice, our clients. We are excited to offer diversity scholarships up to $25,000 for talented 1L and 2L students whose life experiences and values contribute to advancing diversity and inclusion in the law. Applications for the Wiley Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 1L scholarship will be accepted on a rolling basis starting Thursday, December 1. Click here or visit our website to apply.
Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett, LLP – The Conrad Harper 2L Diversity Scholarship
At Simpson Thacher, diversity is a long-standing value that is exemplified by the Conrad Harper 2L Diversity Fellowship. The Conrad Harper Fellowship is a multi-year fellowship that seeks to increase our pipeline of diverse summer associates and to promote the advancement and retention of Simpson Thacher associates from groups that have been historically underrepresented in the legal profession.
The Conrad Harper 2L Diversity Fellowship, named in honor of the Firm’s first African-American partner, will be open to second-year law students applying to the Summer Associate Program in any of our US offices. Its goal is not only to attract diverse talent, but also to develop and retain those associates across the Firm.
In addition to the comprehensive training, substantive experience, and salary associated with summer program participation, fellowship recipients will receive $50,000 paid in periodic financial stipends to help defray the costs of tuition, student loans, and other law school-related expenses.
More information about the Fellowship, including eligibility, and selection criteria can be found here.
Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett, LLP - 1L Summer Associate Program
At Simpson Thacher, we believe that diversity in the workplace improves our ability to serve the needs of our clients and encourages and fosters a more dynamic environment for our attorneys. Each year we seek to fill our summer associate class with a diverse array of talented students from law schools across the country. As part of our ongoing efforts to recruit high caliber attorneys, we offer the opportunity for a select number of 1L students to join our New York, Houston or Los Angeles summer associate class.
These positions will be offered to exceptional first-year law students who can contribute to the diversity of our Firm and the broader legal community. Diversity includes, but is not limited to, differences across categories of race and ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability and socio-economic status.
We are looking for applicants who possess a strong record of academic, employment and community achievement, demonstrating the potential for success in law school and in the legal profession.
We will consider applications on a rolling basis. We will begin accepting 1L applications on November 15, 2022 and ask that all applications are submitted by January 13, 2023.
Please click here to apply for the New York 2023 1L Summer Associate Diversity Program.
Please click here to apply for the Houston 2023 1L Summer Associate Diversity Program.
Please click here to apply for the Los Angeles 2023 1L Summer Associate Diversity Program.
Robinson Bradshaw Diversity and Opportunity Fellowship
The Robinson Bradshaw Diversity and Opportunity Fellowship furthers the firm's commitment to recruit and promote talented individuals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. Fellows will benefit from hands-on learning, participate in networking and community engagement opportunities, and receive scholarship funds to assist with their law school expenses.
Fellowship Benefits
For more information on the fellowship and how to apply, please visit our website.
Akin Gump/Robert Strauss Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship Program
Building on the legacy of founding partner Robert Strauss, we have long prioritized a diverse workforce as vital to outstanding client service. To further our diversity and inclusion efforts, we offer diverse law students this opportunity to spend six weeks with the firm working on legal matters, followed by four weeks at a firm client—all while being involved in the firm’s diversity and inclusion initiatives. Opportunities are available in Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York and Washington, D.C.
The application period for the 2023 Program is open. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis, starting November 1st. Find more information here.
Akin Gump Pro Bono Scholars Program
The summer after your 1L year, you’ll spend time working at the firm and working at a public interest organization of your choice across ten weeks. Pro Bono Scholars make a two-year commitment and return as 2L summer associates, eliminating the need to participate in on-campus interviews. The application period for the 2023 Program is open. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis, starting November 1st. Find more information here.
Akin Gump Financial Restructuring (Bankruptcy) Diversity & Inclusion Scholars Program
To further our diversity and inclusion efforts, we offer diverse law students the opportunity to join one of the firm’s globally recognized practices and gain early practice experience with our Financial Restructuring practice. Across two summers, Financial Restructuring Diversity & Inclusion Scholars will work directly with the practice, be mentored by leading practitioners and engage in meaningful diversity and inclusion initiatives. During the first summer, scholars will spend six weeks with the firm, followed by four weeks at a firm client. Financial Restructuring Diversity & Inclusion Scholars commit to return to the firm as a 2L summer associate and commit to working in the financial restructuring practice. Opportunities are available in New York and Washington, D.C.
The application period for the 2023 Program is open. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis, starting November 1st. Find more information here.
Miller Johnson Michigan Diversity Scholarship
To increase the diversity of the legal profession in Michigan, Miller Johnson has, for over a decade, partnered with the Grand Rapids Community Foundation to administer the Miller Johnson Michigan Diversity Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded annually to a student of color accepted to or presently attending an accredited law school within the United States who either has permanent residence in Michigan or attends a Michigan law school. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. One $5,000 scholarship is awarded each year. More details about the scholarship can be found here.
Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP 2023 Diversity Scholarship Program
Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP is pleased to announce its 2023 Diversity Scholarship Program for law students committed to supporting diversity in the legal profession.
Primarily designed to increase the number of diverse law students interested in summer and long-term employment with Nelson Mullins, the scholarship program fits squarely into the Firm's commitment to inclusive excellence and robust diversity in all aspects of Firm life. Awardees will receive a $10,000 scholarship and a salaried summer associate position at one of the Firm’s 25 offices. (Placement will be determined on a case-by-case basis.) The scholarship may be used toward law school tuition, fees and selected school-related costs such as books and course materials. Up to five scholarships will be awarded for the summer associate class of 2023.
This merit based program is open to 2L students in a full-time JD program (with expected graduation in 2024).
Applicants are considered across several factors, including:
The factors considered in the selection of the award recipient include a focus on a wide array of student backgrounds, characteristics and life experiences — including those associated with race, gender, age, ethnicity/ national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, marital/parental status and more. We also consider issues of diversity that may be reflected in beliefs among prospective student awardees—whether political, economic, social, or philosophical.
The selection process coincides with Nelson Mullins’ regular summer associate recruiting process. Awardees will be chosen by the Scholarship Selection Committee and will receive the scholarship award following successful completion of the Firm’s 2023 summer associate program. Interested applicants should upload a statement of interest (less than 500 words), a current resume and a current law school transcript, along with a list of two academic or professional references, to diversityscholarship@nelsonmullins.com. Please put in the subject line “Diversity Scholarship Application –NAME”.
Submissions will be accepted July 14, 2022 to August 31, 2022.
Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP 2L Diversity Fellowships
Robbins Geller is one of the country’s top plaintiffs’ class action firms and has recovered billions for harmed investors and consumers. We are working to recruit the next generation of lawyers into the Firm and the plaintiffs’ bar. Robbins Geller is pleased to offer 2L Diversity Fellowships to two exceptional law students with a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion who will work in one of Robbins Geller’s practice areas in the Firm’s main office in San Diego, California. Fellows are paired with two mentors (a partner and an associate), who, in addition to the summer associate director, provide support and structured feedback on work assignments and guidance on law firm culture and social events throughout the summer.
Each 2L Diversity Fellow will receive a paid 2L Summer Associate position to start in 2023 and a scholarship of up to $30,000 to assist with law school tuition. Applications will be accepted from May 2, 2022 through June 15, 2022.
For more information and application requirements, please visit our website or email fellowship@rgrdlaw.com.
Kelley Drye Diversity Scholarship
In support of our commitment to diversity and inclusion, Kelley Drye is proud to offer a Diversity Scholarship to an outstanding rising second year law student. The Kelley Drye Diversity Scholarship includes a paid summer associate position in our NY office following the second year of law school, and a $25,000 award paid in two installments as a signing bonus – one upon completion of the summer program and the second upon starting as a full time associate at the firm.
The application period for the Diversity Scholarship will open on Monday, May 16, 2022 and we will review applications on a rolling basis. Interviews will be held virtually. Please visit our website for more information.
Questions
Please email us at diversityscholarship@kelleydrye.com
NYIPLEF’s 2022 Diversity Scholarship
On behalf of the New York Intellectual Property Law Education Foundation (NYIPLEF), we are proud to announce a diversity scholarship opportunity in the amount of $10,000.00 for the 2022 academic year.
NYIPLEF’s 2022 Diversity Scholarship provides funds to diverse law students currently enrolled at an accredited law school in the New York area, in good academic standing, and demonstrating intent to engage in the full-time practice of intellectual property law. The scholarship is intended to be used by the law student for tuition and expenses related to attending law school.
More information is available at < ahref="https://www.nyiplef.org/2022diversityscholarship">https://www.nyiplef.org/2022diversityscholarship.
Clyde & Co Inclusion Matters Scholarship
Clyde & Co is deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and advancing equity within the legal profession. As a part of our ongoing commitment to promoting diversity, the firm is proud to launch the Inclusion Matters Scholarship. Through this $15,000 scholarship, we aim to support students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds.
This scholarship opportunity will be open to second-year law students from diverse backgrounds who participate in our summer associate program.
Additional information about diversity and inclusion at Clyde can be found here.
Caplin & Drysdale 1L Diversity Fellowship
At Caplin & Drysdale, we recognize that the vitality of our Firm depends upon our diverse experiences and backgrounds. We were built on the ideas and principles of service and inclusion and those values still underpin our Firm’s culture. On behalf of Caplin & Drysdale, we invite you to apply for our 1L Caplin-Swanson Diversity Fellowship. The fellowship provides a diverse 1L summer associate meeting certain eligibility criteria with a stipend and a paid summer associate position, as further described in the application.
For more information and application requirements, please visit our website or contact us at Fellowship@Capdale.com to learn more. The application deadline is February 15, 2022 and they will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Cozen O'Connor 1L Diversity & Inclusion Fellowship
At Cozen O’Connor, we understand the value of a diverse work environment and believe that such diversity adds to our firm’s successes and ability to provide better service to our clients. We seek to employ lawyers of diverse backgrounds, and also those committed to the furtherance of a more diverse and inclusive profession. Students in their first year of law school with a demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion are encouraged to apply to our Diversity & Inclusion Fellowship. The Fellowship provides an opportunity for a first year law student to participate in Cozen O’Connor’s summer associate program, as well as receive a stipend to help defray the costs of tuition and/or expenses. View Fellowship Details.
KMK Law Diversity Fellowship Program
KMK Law believes that a diverse work environment attracts the best and the brightest people in the legal community and provides the most creative, innovative solutions for our clients. As part of our ongoing commitment to diversity, we are proud to sponsor the KMK Law Diversity Fellowship Program. This Program is intended to further our mission of recruiting and retaining a skilled, high-performing diverse workforce.
Selected applicants would be hired as a first-year summer associate. In addition to the salary customarily paid to our summer associates, recipients of the Diversity Fellowship will receive a grant in an amount up to $10,000. The first half of the grant will be paid within 30 days of beginning the summer associate program. The remaining half of the grant is paid upon receiving and accepting a position for the next step in the Diversity Fellow's legal career, as a second year summer associate at KMK Law.
More information is available here.
K&L Gates 1L Diversity Programs
At K&L Gates, Diversity is in our DNA. We have a long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion and we take an aggressive approach in the recruitment of diverse lawyers. Each year we sponsor a number of opportunities for 1L law students, which include fellowships and scholarships, in an effort to attract and support top legal talent from wide-ranging backgrounds.
Not only do our summer associate opportunities reflect our commitment to public service and diversity, they are also a great way for law students to make significant legal service contributions while gaining substantial legal experience. More information on our programs can be found here and the link to our 1L summer associate applications can be found here.
Bracewell 1L Diversity & Inclusion Fellowship
As part of Bracewell’s continued commitment to diversity & inclusion, the firm offers up to two merit-based fellowships to first-year law students who are particularly committed to diversity and inclusion, including students who are from historically underrepresented groups. Successful applicants to the program will receive up to a $25,000 award, as well as a paid summer associate position in our Houston office. The amount of $12,500 will be paid in the first paycheck as a first-year summer associate. An additional $12,500 is contingent upon receiving and accepting an offer to return to the firm as a second-year summer associate, to be paid at the completion of the second summer clerkship.
Click here to learn more about our fellowship program.
Richards, Layton & Finger 1L LCLD Scholars Program
Richards, Layton & Finger, Delaware’s largest law firm, is committed to recruiting the finest lawyers, nurturing their talents, and embracing diversity at every level. As a member of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity, the firm is proud to participate in the 1L LCLD Scholars program in 2022. The program offers 10 weeks in the summer for 1L law students doing junior associate-level work across many litigation and transactional practice areas. Please visit the following link for more information: https://www.lcldnet.org/media/mce_filebrowser/2021/11/30/Richards_Layton_update.pdf.
To apply, please submit resume, cover letter, writing sample, and law school transcript at this link: https://recruit.rlf.com/viDesktopEx/viRecruitSelfApply/ReDefault.aspx. If your unofficial law school transcript has not been released at the time you submit your other materials, please follow up with it once available.
Frost Brown Todd 1L Diversity Scholarship
Frost Brown Todd’s 1L Diversity Scholarship is a vital component of our Summer Associate Program. It is also one of the many concrete ways we support building a diverse pipeline while fostering equitable opportunities and outcomes in the legal profession and society as a whole. In addition, Frost Brown Todd established a Diversity Scholarship Fund in 2010, which is open to all students regardless of whether they are participating in our summer program. Please check out our website to learn more about the scholarship opportunities! Jobs for Law Students | Frost Brown Todd Attorneys
Linklaters’ 1L LCLD Scholars Program
Our 1L LCLD Scholars are members of our U.S. summer associate class and participate fully in our 10-week summer associate program. Throughout the program, you will gain valuable experience working with attorneys across multiple practice areas and offices. You will receive formal training and mentoring from experienced partners and associates, and have the opportunity to attend associate trainings, practice group meetings and client events. You will also participate in pro bono work and corporate responsibility initiatives. Upon successful completion of the summer program, our 1L LCLD Scholars are eligible to earn an offer to return to Linklaters the following summer as Making Links 2L Diversity Fellows, with the opportunity to earn a US$25,000 stipend.
Please apply here by submitting resume, cover letter, and unofficial undergraduate and law school transcripts (if available). Your cover letter should detail your interest in Linklaters and how you see yourself contributing to the Firm. Applications will be accepted by through January 15, 2022.
More information can be found at https://careers.linklaters.com/en-us/early-careers/our-opportunities.
Stinson LLP Minority Fellowship
Over the years, Stinson has provided more than one million dollars in scholarships that supported nearly 70 scholars. In 2018, we revamped our efforts and launched the Stinson LLP Minority Fellowship, which provides substantial tuition assistance, a dedicated attorney mentor, and a paid 1L Summer Associate position. We are proud to have awarded the fellowship to eight students since its inception. 1L students from any U.S. ABA-accredited law school are welcome to apply. The Fellowship is available in association with Stinson's Summer Associate programs in our Minneapolis, Kansas City, and St. Louis offices.
For more details about Stinson's Summer Program, click here. For Minority Fellowship qualifications, application requirements, and how to apply, click here. Applications are accepted December 1, 2021 through January 14, 2022.
Perkins Coie 1L Opportunities
Perkins Coie is offering a variety of 1L fellowships for the 2022 summer. The fellowships provide students with a $15,000 academic scholarship and a paid summer associate position immediately following the completion of their first year of law school. There may be an opportunity for our 1L Diversity Fellows to work on-site with the legal department at our clients' offices. Generally, these are two-week opportunities during the summer. In prior years, our fellows have worked with clients including Adobe, Donuts, Epic Games, Google, Intel, Meta, Microsoft, Nestlé Coffee Partners, Nike, and Uber.
Students can view details and apply through our website. The deadline for applications is January 9, 2022.
Fenwick 1L Diversity Scholarship
To promote diversity in the legal profession and provide financial support to law students from underrepresented backgrounds, Fenwick offers scholarships and the opportunity to join us as summer associates to 1L law students. We offer scholarships in our offices in San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Seattle, and New York for 1L students who belong to historically underrepresented groups in the legal profession (based on their race, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation) or who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our Scholars will spend a minimum of 8 weeks of their summer following their 1L year working as a Fenwick summer associate. At the end of the summer, each Scholar will be eligible for an offer to return the following summer as one of our 2L summer associates (and the opportunity to join us after graduation), contingent upon their 1L law school grades, work evaluations, and performance feedback. The total scholarship award that is available is up to $40,000 for each recipient.
Please apply here and submit a current resume; undergraduate transcript; and an essay of no more than 2 pages single-spaced in length, which illustrates core elements of your background, life experiences, values, character, and worldview. Applicants will be evaluated on the basis of the essay, resume, academic achievement, and virtual interviews. We will evaluate applications that are received by January 1, 2022.
Additional information about diversity, equity, and inclusion at Fenwick can be found here, and information about careers at Fenwick be found here.
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner 2L Diversity Scholarship Program
We sponsor a diversity scholarship program for law students who have received and accepted an offer for a summer associate position after the second year of law school in one of our U.S. offices. Each scholarship recipient will receive $10,000, half of which will be paid after successful completion of our Summer Associate Program. The second half of the scholarship will be paid prior to the second semester of the recipient’s third year of law school, providing they have received and accepted an offer to join our firm as an associate following the completion of their legal education. Click here for more information about the selection criteria and application process.
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner 1L Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD) Scholars Program
We are collaborating with the LCLD to strengthen the legal pipeline by creating opportunities for diverse 1L law students. We are seeking first year law students to join our 2022 Summer Associate Program in our Chicago, Denver, Kansas City and St. Louis offices, and participate in the LCLD 1L Scholars Program. In addition to being a BCLP Summer Associate, this opportunity will include attending the LCLD Scholars Virtual Summit June 7 - 9, 2022. There may be additional opportunities for our 1L Scholars to work in-house with a BCLP client for a portion of the summer. Learn more about the LCLD 1L Scholars Program. See our US Student Recruitment page for more information on the program and how to apply. The deadline to apply is February 11, 2022.
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner Atlanta BCLP/WarnerMedia News & Sports 1L Summer Scholar Program
In partnership with WarnerMedia News & Sports, we have a 1L Summer Scholar position available for a diverse law school student in the Atlanta area interested in news media and sports law. The position will also be a part of the LCLD 1L Scholars program. The 1L Summer Scholar will join BCLP as a paid Summer Associate and participate in the firm’s robust training programs, practical experiences, mentoring opportunities, and social activities. The scholar will have exclusive opportunities to work on assignments from, and activities with, the WarnerMedia News & Sports group (including iconic properties CNN, Turner Sports, Bleacher Report and AT&T Sports Networks, LLC) and BCLP’s nationally-recognized Media and First Amendment, and Sports and Entertainment groups. They will also be invited to attend and participate in the 2023 Annual Conference of the ABA Forum on Communications Law, with expenses paid by BCLP. This opportunity will also include attending the LCLD Scholars Virtual Summit June 7-9, 2022. Learn more about WarnerMedia News & Sports. See our US Student Recruitment page for more information on the program and how to apply. The deadline to apply is February 11, 2022.
Thompson Hine 1L Diversity Fellowship Program
To further our commitment to diversity, Thompson Hine has established a 1L Diversity Fellowship for our Columbus and Dayton offices for the 2022 summer program. This is a unique opportunity for students to gain valuable experience, and receive mentoring and training, early in their legal career. Students selected for the Diversity Fellowship will receive a paid summer associate position for the duration of our 2022 summer program, plus $5,000 at the successful completion of the summer program. Those who receive and accept offers to return for a second summer will receive an additional $5,000 in the spring of 2023 and will be eligible to apply for our 2L Diversity Scholarship.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this opportunity, students must be attending a law school that is accredited in the United States and be classified as a member of a minority racial/ethnic group set forth by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or a member of the LGBT community. In addition, candidates must be committed to practicing in the Columbus or Dayton office respectively upon graduation.
Click here for more information.
Questions
Please contact Alexis Laughlin, Legal Talent Specialist, at Alexis.Laughlin@ThompsonHine.com.
1L Kelly Services/Thompson Hine Diversity Summer Associate Program
To further our commitment to diversity, Thompson Hine has established a joint law firm/in-house 1L Diversity Fellowship in our Cincinnati office for the 2022 summer program. This is a unique opportunity for students to gain valuable experience, and receive mentoring and training, early in their legal career. Students selected for this Diversity Fellowship opportunity will receive a paid summer associate position for the duration of our 2022 summer program, a portion of which will be spent in an in-house environment with a company based in Troy, MI, plus $5,000 at the successful completion of the summer program. A stipend will be provided to cover living expenses while in Troy, MI. Those who receive and accept offers to return for a second summer will receive an additional $5,000 in the spring of 2023 and will be eligible to apply for our 2L Diversity Scholarship.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this opportunity, students must be attending a law school that is accredited in the United States and be classified as a member of a minority racial/ethnic group set forth by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or a member of the LGBT community. The selected candidate must have a strong interest in pursuing a legal career with an emphasis in Labor & Employment, Corporate Law, and/or Business Litigation upon graduation. In addition, candidates must be committed to practicing in Cincinnati, Ohio upon graduation.
Click here for more information.
Questions
Please contact Alexis Laughlin, Legal Talent Specialist, at Alexis.Laughlin@ThompsonHine.com.
1L Eaton/Thompson Hine Diversity Summer Associate Program
To further our commitment to diversity, Thompson Hine has established a joint law firm/in-house 1L Diversity Fellowship in our Cincinnati office for the 2022 summer program. This is a unique opportunity for students to gain valuable experience, and receive mentoring and training, early in their legal career. Students selected for this Diversity Fellowship opportunity will receive a paid summer associate position for the duration of our 2022 summer program, a portion of which will be spent in an in-house environment with a company based in Troy, MI, plus $5,000 at the successful completion of the summer program. A stipend will be provided to cover living expenses while in Troy, MI. Those who receive and accept offers to return for a second summer will receive an additional $5,000 in the spring of 2023 and will be eligible to apply for our 2L Diversity Scholarship.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this opportunity, students must be attending a law school that is accredited in the United States and be classified as a member of a minority racial/ethnic group set forth by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or a member of the LGBT community. The selected candidate must have a strong interest in pursuing a legal career with an emphasis in Labor & Employment, Corporate Law, and/or Business Litigation upon graduation. In addition, candidates must be committed to practicing in Cincinnati, Ohio upon graduation.
Click here for more information.
Questions
Please contact Alexis Laughlin, Legal Talent Specialist, at Alexis.Laughlin@ThompsonHine.com.
Ice Miller Racial Justice Fellowship Program
Ice Miller is committed to recruiting, developing, and retaining talented attorneys and professional staff from all backgrounds. We take great pride in a culture of inclusion where everyone at Ice Miller feels respected, is treated fairly, and can perform at their highest potential.
As a Firm dedicated to helping our clients stay ahead of a changing world, we know creativity and innovation are essential. A diverse team that sees challenges from different perspectives and cultural references drives creativity, fuels innovation, and strengthens relationships.
Also, in response to the continuing violence that impacts the Black community, Ice Miller has heeded the call to action to change the unequal treatment that continues to deny historically excluded people fundamental human rights and the respect and dignity that comes with them. The Firm created our Racial Justice Task Force to direct our racial justice work across a spectrum of opportunities including local grassroots organizations and high-level policy reform. Much of the Firm’s pro bono work focuses on racial justice both at the individual and community levels.
While we recognize that the work of dismantling injustice in society at large is far from over, we also recognize there are barriers that prevent talented individuals from entering into the legal profession as well. To help remove those barriers, Ice Miller is pleased to announce our Racial Justice Fellowship.
Fellowship awardees will receive:
Application Process
Applicants for Ice Miller’s Racial Justice Fellowship must be a law student at an ABA-accredited law school with an expected graduation date in 2024. Applications will be accepted beginning in December each year, but final decisions may not be made until first semester grades are received.
The following application materials must be submitted:
1. Resume
2. Undergraduate Transcript (may be unofficial version)
3. Law School Transcript with first semester grades should be submitted when it becomes available; you need not wait for your first semester grades to apply (may be unofficial version)
4. First semester Legal Research & Writing Memorandum
Applications for Indianapolis should be submitted here.
Applications for Columbus should be submitted here.
Fox Rothschild 1L Diversity Fellowship
We recognize that successfully serving our clients and providing the caliber of legal services they have come to expect from us requires the teamwork of professionals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. We are committed to cultivating a diverse workplace that continually promotes opportunities for all. The Fox Fellowship will be open to qualified candidates interested in any of our 28 offices. Fox Fellowship recipients will receive the following:
An award of $15,000, conditioned on the following:
-$7,500 will be awarded after acceptance of a 2L summer associate position, and
-$7,500 will be awarded after acceptance of an entry-level associate position.
First-year law students who are members of groups that are historically underrepresented in the legal profession are welcome to apply to the Fox Rothschild 1L Diversity Fellowship. The link to the application and additional information can be found here.
Twin Cities Diversity in Practice 1L Clerkship Program
For over a decade, the Twin Cities Diversity in Practice 1L Clerkship has helped launch the careers of law students of color in the Twin Cities. TCDIP strengthens the legal talent pipeline with strategic partnerships between TCDIP Members from law firms and corporate legal departments. TCDIP has more than 35 available positions for 1L students from historically under-represented racial and ethnic backgrounds available at TCDIP Member law firms in the Twin Cities. Students employed through the program will work at a TCDIP Member firm and a corporate legal department. Students will also have the opportunity to engage in valuable exposure to leadership, professional development, mentorship with an attorney outside their host firm, and connections to program alumni. Each available position is listed on our website and includes the corporate organization partnering with the firm. Qualified 1L students should submit their individual applications directly to the host firms following the instructions posted on our website. Any due application due dates are listed in the posting.
2022 Dinsmore Diversity Scholarship Program
Diversity is a core value and a prime ingredient of everything we do as Dinsmore attorneys. We know that assembling teams of lawyers with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints is essential to the excellent service and results we provide our clients. We are pleased to offer our Diversity Scholarship Program in partnership with several corporate leaders. We ask that students complete and submit the application forms above to indicate their specific interest in the opportunities available by January 14, 2022. Additional information about Dinsmore and copies of the applications may also be found on our website.
Bondurant Mixson & Elmore 1L Scholar Program with LCLD
Bondurant Mixson and Elmore, LLP is a 33-lawyer firm in midtown Atlanta exclusively focused on representing plaintiffs and defendants in high-stakes business disputes. Chambers & Partners lists BME as one of only three firms with the highest ranking for commercial litigation in Georgia. And the National Law Journal has recognized the firm as one of the top 10 litigation boutiques in the United States.
BME is seeking exceptional, diverse 1L candidates who are interested in business trial and appellate litigation and who have a sincere desire to practice law in Atlanta long-term. Successful candidates will have a record of outstanding academic achievement and experience demonstrating potential to excel in the legal profession and contribute to the firm’s success.
For more information about our firm, please visit our website at www.bmelaw.com. For details about the application process, click here.
Mintz - 1L LCLD Diversity Summer Associate Program
Each summer we host first-year students in our Summer Associate program as Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD) 1L Scholars. Our 1L Summer Associates participate in the same enriching summer program as our 2Ls, with the additional benefit of working directly with a Mintz client.
1L Summer Associates to spend a significant period of time, generally one to three weeks, working with a Mintz client’s in-house legal team. Opportunities are available for students interested in working in our Litigation, Corporate, and Intellectual Property sections. Students select their practice area of preference and are immersed in the section during the summer. Our 1L LCLD Diversity Summer Associate Program is offered exclusively in our Boston Office. Learn more.
Mintz - The Richard Mintz Diversity Scholarship for 2L Summer Associates
At Mintz, we strive to create an environment where people from all backgrounds are positioned for success. As part of our commitment to promoting diversity at the firm, and in the legal profession, we have awarded the Richard Mintz Diversity Scholarship to an exemplary diverse law student each year since 2010.
The scholarship is given to community-minded 2Ls from diverse backgrounds who have shown academic excellence and commitment to diversity. Its namesake, Richard Mintz (1921 – 2011), the firm’s longest serving partner and the son of a founding partner, was known for his passion for people and his commitment to creating a progressive workplace.
Each year, we award up to two scholarships. Each scholarship recipient receives $20,000 toward tuition for their third year of law school and a paid position in our 2L Summer Associate program. Learn more.
Hausfeld's 1L Diversity Fellowship Program
At Hausfeld, we are proud of our commitment to diversity and inclusion throughout our firm. By valuing different perspectives and experiences, we know that we produce better results for our clients and the communities we serve. To that end, Hausfeld has established a 1L Diversity Fellowship program that provides a unique summer employment opportunity for exceptional first-year law students from historically underrepresented backgrounds in the legal profession. Fellows are awarded a spot in the firm’s summer associate program and a $10,000 scholarship towards their 2L academic year. Fellows are paired with two firm mentors, a partner, and an associate, who in addition to the summer associate committee, provide support and structured feedback on work assignments and guidance on law firm culture and social events throughout the summer.
Hausfeld is a leading global law firm specializing in complex litigation on behalf of plaintiffs in the areas of antitrust, environmental threats, consumer protection, cybersecurity, mass torts, and civil and human rights. Our diverse team of attorneys has been appointed by federal courts to lead the nation’s most complex class actions. This position offers the opportunity for extremely substantive, interesting, and challenging work with recognized leaders in the bar. Applicants should be enthusiastic about this mission-driven work and the opportunity to dive into complex problem-solving challenges.
Successful applicants must demonstrate: (1) a record of academic excellence, (2) leadership experience, and (3) community involvement. Applications must include a cover letter or 1–2 page personal statement, resume, transcript, and short writing sample. First generation law students are encouraged to apply.
To apply, please send your application materials to diversityfellowship@hausfeld.com.
Applications will be accepted from November 15, 2021 – January 30, 2022.
*The Firm requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Applicants requesting exemption from this requirement because of a medical condition or religious belief should contact the Human Resources Department.
Baker Botts Diversity Fellowship Program
At Baker Botts, we are committed to the recruitment, retention and development of exceptional attorneys and law students. We recognize the value of diverse perspectives and the integral role they play in the continued growth and success of our Firm. The Baker Botts Diversity Fellowship is one of our many diversity programs aimed at promoting diversity here at our Firm and in the legal profession.
The highly qualified candidates selected to receive a fellowship will be eligible to receive up to $12,500 in stipends throughout the duration of their participation in the program, in addition to a salaried Summer Associate position. The stipends are paid to the fellowship recipients when they receive and accept an offer to participate in the Summer Program and when they return to the firm.
The fellowship is open to all first year law students with an anticipated graduation date of Spring 2024, currently enrolled in an ABA-accredited law school, regardless of race, color, religion, citizenship, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, military service, disability or any other characteristic or condition protected by applicable law.
More information on the fellowship and application process are available on our website. Questions? Please reach out to alison.ketabchi@bakerbotts.com.
Baker Botts 1L IP Diversity Fellowship
A global law firm with a distinguished heritage, Baker Botts is a leader in the field of Intellectual Property law. We seek exceptional law students who possess technical degrees or backgrounds to join us and contribute to the continued growth and success of our firm. With over 200 lawyers and patent professionals — who together hold 240 technical degrees— Baker Botts’ Intellectual Property legal team offers the strength and depth needed to provide sophisticated advice and counseling on a truly international scale.
The Baker Botts/AT&T 1L IP Diversity Fellowship will be awarded to a talented first-year law student interested in pursuing a long-term career in Intellectual Property Law. Our fellowship provides the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a large, global law firm and in the legal department of one of the top 10 companies on the Fortune 500. The IP Diversity Fellow will participate in the firm’s 2022 Summer Program in our Dallas office, spending time both at the firm and with AT&T. During this time, the IP Diversity Fellow will receive hands-on experience working directly on AT&T matters both in-house and with outside counsel providing a unique 360 degree view of legal services for AT&T. The IP Diversity Fellow will have the benefit of mentors both at the firm and with AT&T.
At Baker Botts, we are committed to the recruitment, retention and development of exceptional attorneys and law students. We recognize the value of diverse perspectives and the integral role they play in the continued growth and success of our firm. The Baker Botts/AT&T 1L IP Diversity Fellowship is one of our many diversity programs aimed at promoting diversity here at our firm and in the legal profession.
More information on the fellowship and application process are available on our website. Questions? Please reach out to megan.lacy@bakerbotts.com in Dallas.
Cooley US 1L Diversity Fellowship
As part of Cooley's ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, we are proud to offer diversity fellowships to outstanding first-year law school students. Award recipients will receive a paid 1L summer associate position and an award of up to $50,000 to assist with law school tuition.
Eligibility
We welcome applications from all law students who:
For 1L students in the 2021 – 2022 academic year, applications must be received by January 10, 2022. Upon receipt of first-term law school grades, please send a copy of your law school transcript to diversityfellowship@cooley.com. Selected applicants will be contacted on a rolling basis to arrange personal interviews. In the 2021 – 2022 application cycle, we anticipate all interviews will be conducted virtually.
More information is available on our website.
Vinson & Elkins' 1L Diversity Fellowship
Vinson & Elkins’ 1L Diversity Fellowship Vinson & Elkins awards some of the brightest law students from top law schools in the U.S. with Diversity Fellowships each year. Each awarded student receives a $25,000 scholarship and a paid clerkship in one of our U.S. offices (Austin, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Richmond, San Francisco or Washington, DC) the summer following their 1L year. Read more about the fellowship here.
Fellowship Eligibility Requirements
Applications will open later this fall in conjunction with the V&E 1L Summer Associate application. Sign up here to be notified when our application opens. Fellowships will be awarded on a rolling basis.
If you have questions related to the Diversity Fellowship, please reach out to Allie McWilliams at amcwilliams@velaw.com.
Ropes & Gray’s 2L Diversity Scholarship
The Roscoe Trimmier Jr. 2L Diversity Scholarship, named after our first African American partner, awards scholarships of $25,000 to a number of outstanding 2L students to help offset the expenses of their legal education, and a paid summer associate position following completion of the second year of law school.
Criteria for the 2L Diversity Scholarship
In addition to meeting the criteria for the summer associate program, applicants for the scholarship must show:
Eligibility Requirements
When applying, applicants must provide the following materials:
*The personal statement that is part of the application process should address the applicant’s qualifications for the scholarship, including, potentially, a description of the applicant’s leadership qualities, exceptional contributions to community and commitment to the practice of law.
To apply, please click here.
Baker McKenzie 2L Diversity Fellowship Program
The Baker McKenzie Diversity Fellowship Program furthers our commitment to recruit and develop talented lawyers who seek to contribute to Baker McKenzie's mission of inclusion and diversity, as well as the creation of a more inclusive legal profession.
The Baker McKenzie Diversity Fellowships are awarded to second year law students (2Ls) committed to diversity within the legal community. Diversity Fellows are selected after an application process and each recipient receives USD$10,000.
Applicants must receive an offer of summer employment for their second-year summer; be a member of a population that historically has been underrepresented in the legal profession; and complete an application form and brief personal statement.
To apply, please click HERE where you will be asked to complete the application and submit the following documents:
You must have made application to the Baker McKenzie 2L Summer Associate Program in the US or Toronto offices. The Baker & McKenzie Diversity Fellowship will only be awarded to individuals who receive an offer for a summer associate position.
Applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis, starting December 1.
Jenner & Block LLP 2022 2L Diversity Scholarships
Jenner & Block remains steadfast in our resolve to pursue diversity and inclusion in everything we do and to continue to fight for greater equity and justice through our work. Our Diversity Scholarship is aimed at increasing opportunities for talented law students who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. Two $15,000 scholarships will be awarded on a non-renewable basis to students graduating in 2023. Accepting this scholarship will commit the recipient to spending their 2L summer at the firm. Applications should include a resume, undergraduate transcript, law school transcript, and a personal statement. To apply, send your applications materials to diversityscholarship@jenner.com by the end of summer 2021. Learn more about our application process here.
Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC — The M. Catherine Richardson Clerkship Program
Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC offers The M. Catherine Richardson Clerkship Program, open to 1L law student applicants. The purpose of The M. Catherine Richardson Clerkship Program is to provide meaningful law firm experience to aspiring law students who bring diversity to the legal profession.
The paid clerkship runs for ten to twelve weeks, 40 hour per week. One applicant will be selected for summer, which will be for one of Bond’s Upstate New York offices (Syracuse, Albany, Buffalo, or Rochester).
For more information visit www.bsk.com/careers.
