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 our 2027 Summer Associate Program is complete. Information about our 2028 Summer Associate Program will be available in Fall 2026.
To learn more about life as a summer associate at Vedder, please see our firm profiles in Chambers Associate and Flo Forward. We hope to see you at future recruiting events!
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
As I worked on a wide variety of matters with attorneys across offices, I learned so much about the day-to-day work of a litigation associate during my summer at Vedder. My projects ranged from researching true lender doctrine precedents to timely media and privacy issues. I also shadowed attorneys, attending depositions and hearings for both federal and state cases. I’m looking forward to returning to the team next year!
The Global Transportation Finance group at Vedder is top-ranked internationally, and during my time at the firm, I learned a lot about this unique area of law. As a summer associate, I was able to actively participate in multiple transactions, including numerous engine leases and aircraft purchases. My associate mentor was very helpful in guiding me through the nuances of the industry and ensured that I successfully transitioned into the firm. I’m eager to come back and contribute to the team after graduation.
I very much enjoyed my summer at Vedder. My associate advisor did a great job of welcoming me and encouraging my integration within the firm. In addition to the observational opportunities, the planned social events made it much easier to network with attorneys in my group and to meet those in other practice areas I wouldn’t have had much interaction with otherwise. The community service event was a particular standout, and I plan to volunteer with that organization again. It will be great to rejoin the firm next fall.
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