Ballard Spahr

• “The training was helpful, and the system for assigning work was extremely well organized. I was able to pick up assignments in practice areas I was interested in, and work with attorneys from other offices. Though much of the work was research, memos, etc., there was some opportunity to assist with substantive matters.”
• “There are organized trainings to familiarize summer associates with Ballard's internal system, and how to be an effective summer associate. Work assignments are delegated through a portal, that makes sure work is allocated proportionately, and that summers aren't overworked.”
• “We received comprehensive training, similar to what we received during first-year associate orientation. I was also surprised at the amount of substantive work I was involved in, including client meetings.”
• “I think the firm does a good job of making sure that summers are given real, substantive work, rather than made-up assignments. The firm also does a good job of incorporating trainings and assignments that help to ensure that summers are exposed to what life looks like as an associate.”

• “Partners and associates were very honest about the highs and lows of firm life, and my experience has matched those descriptions.”
• “I did not appreciate the non-substantive tasks that junior associates would be expected to do. I also felt less supported as an associate than I did as a summer associate. I've been pleasantly surprised with the level of responsibility given to junior associates.”
• “The partners I worked with were a lot less intimidating than I anticipated. They took the time to explain assignments, and seemed to want to take an interest in me as an individual.”
• “Naturally, the work is more complicated, and billable hours are a more significant consideration.”

• “I really enjoyed having all of the summers come visit the Philadelphia office this past summer. It was great to get to know everyone, and have events with them around the city.”
• “I attended a ‘Ballard on Broadway’ event, where members of the firm virtually attended a gathering with Broadway actors from Hamilton and Frozen on Ice.”
• “My favorite event was the bowling event, where we rented out a few lanes, because it was a perfect mix of socializing and activity.”
• “Coffee art, trivia, painting, and in-person lunches.”

The Summer Associate Program is the primary source for recruiting first-year associates at Ballard Spahr. The program provides a strong foundation of key skills, experiences, and relationships that will allow our summer associates to launch successful careers at the firm. Summer associates receive significant on-the-job training. They do meaningful work, participate in pro bono projects, develop mentor relationships with associates and partners, interface with clients, and have at their disposal a range of innovative training programs and valuable networking opportunities. They work side-by-side with attorneys and attend department and practice group meetings throughout the summer. A highlight of our program is the annual firmwide Summer Associate Retreat, when summer associates from every office travel to Philadelphia for training, networking, and social events. This experience promotes the development of relationships with colleagues across all practices and office locations.