As summer approaches, upper-level law students begin finalizing their plans for break. For many, this will include time as a law clerk. In an effort to help small law firms in the Houston area connect with these students, the University of Houston Law Center’s Career Development Office offers the Summer Apprentice Program. The goal of the program is to introduce students to opportunities at small firms, which typically do not have a robust hiring infrastructure. Participating firms and the Law Center will split the cost of a student’s salary.
“Students who are getting experience in smaller firms are often able to participate in projects they may not have exposure to in larger firms. In some cases, students are meeting clients, attending depositions or hearings, and drafting documents that directly impact the outcome of a client’s case,” said Allison Hickey Regan, assistant dean for career development. “We have seen an increase in students wanting to practice in smaller firms, and this program gives them fantastic exposure.”
Placement interviews are currently taking place; firms interested in participating in the Summer Apprentice Program should go to law.uh.edu/career/Law-Firm-Apprenticeship.asp.