Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP

• “The summer associate program provided substantive work that required associates to push themselves and learn new skills, while still offering a fair amount of guidance and leadership from more senior associates. As a summer associate, I was able to try new things without feeling lost in unfamiliar tasks. I was able to hone research skills, and learn about different types of litigation, and also got to try my hand at drafting a motion to dismiss.”
• “My summer provided a diverse array of substantive work assignments, and gave me a pretty good glimpse into the true work-life balance of associates at the firm. The firm allowed all summers to sample across all of the firm's practice areas, even allowing corporate-leaning summers to sample projects in litigation and arbitration.”
• “Freshfields conducted weekly trainings on various topics spanning the corporate practice. As for work, we were given substantive work, and numerous opportunities to interact with clients. On smaller matters, it was not unusual for a summer to be working with just a partner.”
• “I was able to get a variety of assignments in different practice groups, and meet attorneys across the firm. Everyone was always very willing to help and explain things.”

• “Freshfields made it a point to still keep the social aspect of the firm alive, even though there were COVID restrictions. The programming brought the summer class closer together.”
• “The firm did a terrific job of engaging associates during the virtual events. Even via a Zoom box, we were able to have fun given the props shipped to our house for paint and sip or movie nights.”
• “We had some incredible meals with amazing views, good wine, and good conversation. I loved the more laid-back approach the firm had, preferring real conversation and cool activities (like chocolate tasting) that don't just involve open bars.”
• “Freshfields went out of its way to create formal, and likewise to support informal, opportunities for summer associates to get to know one another, and the lawyers at the firm. This was an immense challenge given the COVID-19 pandemic, but Freshfields figured out how to create a great mix of virtual and in-person events for summer associates.”

• “I've been impressed how similar life as an associate is to the life of a summer associate. There are fewer fancy lunches, perhaps, but otherwise, the substantive assignments, and lean staffing on matters, carried across to life as an associate.”
• “I think my work life and opportunities align with my expectations. I will say that people talk about Freshfields having a better emphasis on work-life balance than other firms, and while I wouldn't call it an objectively ‘good’ work-life balance, it does seem better than what friends of mine are experiencing at other similar firms.”
• “The summer experience was very similar to the first year experience so far. The work I was given is the same as now. I have been given opportunities to attend client meetings, interact with clients and opposing counsel, and even lead team calls.”
• “I think the support given to summers is very appropriate for that level, but it created a bit of a shock upon beginning the first year (especially when we were still remote). The infrastructure for onboarding first years was a little lackluster compared to the summer program.”

• “Designing my own custom Nikes, and an informal dinner with firm associates and summer law clerks that turned into an entire night out and about in New York. The firm covered our expenses, turning this informal gathering into a real opportunity to get to know my future colleagues.”
• “In person, I enjoyed a catered cocktail party we had on a rooftop bar at the end of the program, and virtually, I actually very much enjoyed the virtual escape room. It was way more fun than I ever would have imagined.”
• “I really enjoyed the virtual cocktail making class we did. I also really enjoyed the in-person events we were able to do towards the end of the summer, like a rooftop happy hour.”
• “I enjoyed a cake making class with Momofuku. I also appreciated the opportunity to do a two-week secondment at the firm's London office.”

Freshfields' 10-week summer associate programs in the United States (New York, DC, and Silicon Valley) and London give second-year U.S. law school students a taste of what it is like to work at a top tier international law firm.

While we offer the resources of a large, international firm, our U.S. summer associate class is around 25-30 students. So, we are able to tailor the experience to ensure that it is substantive, relevant, and rewarding. Our U.S. summer associates work closely with senior associates and partners on substantive work on marquee cases.

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer recruits at 26 different law schools and fairs. If we do not currently attend your specific law school interview program, or you are not granted an interview slot, we encourage you to submit a resume, transcript, and cover letter. We will review your application in a timely matter.