Share
The summer associate landscape is shifting. In 2025, more law firms are moving away from large, general 2L summer classes and instead recruiting smaller, highly specialized cohorts tied to particular practice groups or geographies. This trend, which pushes firms toward “micro-class” models, changes how rising 2Ls should think about offers, conversion opportunities, and long term fit.
Shrinking Class Sizes and Rising Selectivity
According to industry data, the average 2L summer program class size fell to about 12 students in 2024, down from approximately 14 in 2023 and one of the lowest levels since the pandemic. Firms are increasingly cautious about overhiring amid uncertain demand and declining productivity. The result: fewer general-entry summer spots and more tailored intake linked to specific practice units (e.g., data privacy, life sciences, infrastructure) or off-site teams.
What “Specialized” Summer Cohorts Look :ike
Rather than indiscriminately recruiting 20–30 2Ls, firms now recruit perhaps 6–10 candidates for a specific group—such as fintech litigation, ESG/advisory, or a regional energy practice. That allows firms to integrate summer hires directly into target practices, accelerate conversion, and manage headcount more precisely. One recruiting industry article describes firms building “talent pools” rather than fixed classes, and tapping summer hires through narrower channels.
Impacts on Candidate Strategy
For rising 2Ls, the implications are substantial. First, you may receive fewer general invites, and need to align earlier to a specific practice area or geography. Second, the conversion odds may increase for those selected in a micro-class (because they are essentially pre-assigned), but you carry higher specialization risk: if your group shrinks or changes strategy, your slot may be vulnerable. Third, you’ll need to tailor your resume and interviews even earlier to reflect commitment to that practice niche.
How to Position Yourself For a Micro-Class Slot
Start by identifying firms that publish smaller class sizes or link summer cohorts to defined groups. In application materials and interviews, signal both broad interest and specific alignment: “I am drawn to your climate finance group and would welcome a 2L summer role drafting green bond documents and supporting project finance due diligence.” Because “generalist summer” may be less available, think when applying: “What practice do I want early exposure to, and what unique credentials do I bring?” Firms value candidates who demonstrate that connection, not just generic interest in “BigLaw.”
Risks and Tradeoffs
Joining a micro-class has upside—immediate exposure, easier conversion—but comes with risk. If the practice group is small or under-resourced, your experience may feel narrow. Also, lateral mobility can become more constrained if you spend your 2L summer deep in a niche. Finally, because spots are fewer, competition is steeper—so fallback options matter. Candidates should confirm conversion rates for their cohort, and ask whether offer timelines differ for micro-class entries.
***
Micro-class summer recruiting is not just a blip—it is a strategic pivot by many firms toward precision hiring in 2025. For students, understanding the change—fewer spots, earlier affiliation, narrower practice alignment—is essential. Prepare accordingly: target your niche, customize early, and manage the specialization tradeoff. Those who adapt will navigate the new summer recruiting environment more successfully.
Share
