As a top law student, you're likely gearing up for the next big step in your legal career: applying for summer associate positions. With 2L recruiting season just around the corner, the pressure is on to choose the right firms to target. But here's the question: how do you decide where to apply, and why should you go beyond just the rankings?
Much like your decision-making process when applying to law schools, selecting the right firms to apply to involves more than just a numbers game. Sure, rankings like the AmLaw 100 or Vault's top lists are helpful at first glance, but the reality is that they only provide one aspect of the full picture. To make an informed and strategic decision, you need to broaden your perspective and dive deeper into what each firm truly offers. We'll explore how to go beyond rankings and research firms in a way that aligns with your values, goals, and future career aspirations.
1. Think Broadly: The Importance of Reach, Fit, and Realistic Options
When building your list of firms to apply to, it’s essential to cast a wide net. Think of your application strategy like applying to law schools: you want a mix of reach, target, and safety schools. Similarly, some firms may feel like a “reach” based on their prestige or your qualifications, while others may be a better “fit” for your skills, experiences, and aspirations.
It's also worth considering firms where you are likely to be a strong candidate—your "safety" options. Don't get caught up in the idea that applying to a range of firms is a sign of indecision or lack of ambition. Instead, it’s a practical strategy to ensure that you have options that suit both your professional goals and lifestyle preferences.
2. Do Your Research: Flo Forward, Chambers, NALP, and Beyond
To get a comprehensive view of what a firm offers, you need to go beyond the rankings and dig into a variety of sources. There are many places where you can find valuable information, but Flo Forward offers a unique, detailed approach to understanding law firms. As a law student, you can access information on a firm’s practice areas, culture, mentoring programs, and you can even see unique media and videos on life at the firm. If you're interested in learning about a firm's commitment to diversity, their international presence, or how they approach work-life balance, Flo Forward is the perfect tool for gaining insight into these crucial factors.
Another great resource is the NALP Directory, which offers very specific and uniform data on law firm’s that are listed, including summer offer and acceptance rates.
3. Dive Into the Firm’s Practice Areas, Offices, and International Presence
One of the most important factors to consider when applying to firms is the work you’ll be doing. Law firms offer a range of practice areas, and it’s vital to research which ones align with your interests and aspirations. If you're particularly drawn to corporate law, real estate, litigation, or intellectual property, ensure that the firm has a solid presence in the area you want to pursue.
You should also consider the geographic footprint of the firm. Does it have offices in locations that interest you? Are you looking to work internationally or gain exposure to global clients? If so, you'll want to target firms that have a strong international presence. You might not need to make an international move in your first summer, but it’s important to keep your long-term goals in mind.
4. Evaluate the Culture and Mentoring Opportunities
As you evaluate firms, pay close attention to their culture. Law school is intense enough without adding unnecessary stress from an unsupportive firm culture. One of the best ways to gauge culture is by looking at attorney bios—what kind of career progression have people had at the firm? Have they stayed for the long haul, or is there significant turnover? A culture of mentorship and professional development can be a sign that the firm invests in its people, making it a more fulfilling and supportive environment.
You can also look for indicators of mentorship programs and opportunities for growth. Some firms highlight their mentoring efforts in interviews with associates or summer associates, while others may provide more formal structures for feedback and growth. Look for firms that prioritize mentorship, as this can provide you with valuable guidance during your summer and beyond.
5. Authentic Insights: Interviews, Testimonials, and the Reality Check
To get a real sense of what it’s like to work at a firm, it’s crucial to look beyond the polished marketing materials and seek authentic feedback. Many firms will include interviews with current attorneys, summer associates, or alumni on their websites and social media. But don’t just take everything at face value—try to gauge the authenticity of these testimonials. Are the interviews with current associates reflective of their actual experiences, or do they seem more like a polished marketing campaign?
One of the most effective ways to gain honest insight into a firm is to reach out to people who have worked there—especially former summer associates. Cold calling or emailing someone from your law school or undergraduate alma mater can be a great way to start a conversation. Alumni are often happy to share their experiences and offer advice about what the firm is really like.
You can also speak with current or former summer associates on campus. Many law schools facilitate events where you can connect with people who have had firsthand experience at firms. These conversations are invaluable for understanding what the work environment is truly like.
6. Examine Retention and Career Progression
Look into the retention rates of the firms you’re considering. Are associates staying long-term, or are they leaving after just a couple of years? While some turnover is expected, high rates of attrition may signal that something isn’t quite right within the firm. Conversely, firms that promote a high level of home-grown talent—where partners are often former associates—can be a good indicator that the firm values long-term development and career progression.
Assessing retention can give you a sense of whether the firm invests in its people and fosters an environment where attorneys can thrive over the long term.
7. Align Your Decision with Your Values and Career Aspirations
Ultimately, the choice of where to apply and accept an offer should be grounded in your values and long-term career goals. Do you value a diverse and inclusive environment? Are you seeking a firm with a strong commitment to pro bono work? Or maybe you want to work in a specific practice area or geographic location. Whatever it is, take the time to reflect on what matters most to you, both personally and professionally, and make sure the firms you’re considering align with those priorities.
Conclusion
Choosing where to apply for a summer associate position is a big decision, and it’s essential to look beyond rankings to make an informed choice. By doing thorough research through resources like Flo Forward, talking to alums and former summer associates, and considering factors like culture, mentorship, and career progression, you can build a list of firms that not only match your qualifications but also align with your values and aspirations. Thinking broadly and evaluating firms on multiple dimensions, will better equip you to choose a place where you can thrive and take the next step toward a successful legal career.
