Summer Associates

Our Summer Associate Program is our most valuable source of new associates, and we strive to make your summer with us an experience that translates into your future success as a Vedder associate.
Summer Associate Recruitment
Recruitment for 2L positions in our 2028 Summer Associate Program will begin in January 2027. We will accept direct applications for all positions and participate in several law school OCI programs. Further information regarding our program and the application process will be available shortly.
To learn more about life as a summer associate at Vedder, please see our firm profiles in Chambers Associate and Flo Forward.
Summer Associates
Hear from three Vedder Shareholders who began their careers as summer associates and grew into leaders at the firm. John Burke, Josh Dunn, and Justine Chilvers share their experiences and reflect on the mentorship, opportunities and supportive culture that shaped their paths.
The Vedder Difference
SMALL SUMMER CLASS SIZES
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
MEANINGFUL PRO BONO OPPORTUNITIES
The mentorship I received regarding both work matters and career aspirations has been invaluable to my professional development. Everyone was generous with their time and advice. With the guidance of this collaborative and collegial team, I was able to take on meaningful responsibility and experience what life as an associate will be like. With this combination of intriguing work and supportive colleagues, I see myself at Vedder long-term.
During my summer at Vedder, I truly explored my practice area. I gained hands-on experience by working on actual matters for firm clients, drafting motions, preparing settlement agreements, and conducting legal research. It was also rewarding to apply my growing legal skills and employment law knowledge to pro bono advisory efforts supporting valuable initiatives serving our community. Being able to provide exceptional client service while also giving back was incredibly enriching and something I plan to continue as an associate.
As Vedder’s first Miami summer associate, I had a front-row seat to the firm’s growth while gaining exposure to every stage of litigation. Watching cases move from strategy to courtroom – assisting with preparations, sitting in on client meetings, observing hearings, and attending full days of trial – only deepened my interest in this practice. There was never a dull moment, and I felt like part of the team all summer. I'm looking forward to rejoining the team as a first-year associate.
About Us
For More Information
Pamela G. Masters
Manager of Legal Recruiting
Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Dallas Offices
Chicago
Elise Rippe
Manager of Legal Recruiting
New York, Washington, DC, London, Singapore and Miami Offices
New York