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.”

• “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.”
• “I enjoyed the social events and am still close to associates in my year who summered at the firm.”
• “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.”
• “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....”

• “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 ... 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.”
• “I enjoyed a catered cocktail party we had on a rooftop bar at the end of the program.”
• “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.”

Freshfield’s Summer Associate program offers a truly global law firm experience. Beyond great projects working alongside our attorneys, there are many fun social and cultural events for the Summers to get to know each other and people around the firm.

Each 2L Summer Associate is invited to attend an international business trip. Our 2024 summer program host offices include London, Amsterdam, Berlin, Dusseldorf, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Madrid, Munich, Rome, Singapore, Tokyo, Vietnam Paris, Vienna, Brussels, and Frankfurt. International client work and international travel opportunities are defining features of the Freshfields experience.  

To find out more, please visit us at United States Careers at Freshfields | Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer