We rely heavily on our summer program for our hiring needs. The primary goal of the program is to provide summer associates with a realistic, broad-based view of our practice and an opportunity to become acquainted with our attorneys through our informal mentoring program, training sessions and social events. While we encourage summer associates to spend time in each of the major departments of the Firm, the program is flexible and can be adapted to meet the specific interests of each participant. A key feature of the program is to provide summer associates with extensive feedback on their work, including formal and informal evaluations throughout the summer.
Seward & Kissel is honored to be recognized by Vault’s 2024 Rankings in the category of Attorney Interactions. Over 20,000 associates participate in Vault’s Annual Associate Survey, from over 180 Firms. Seward & Kissel has been ranked in the Summer Associate Program – Attorney Interactions category, one of very few firms to receive this designation.
2024 Summer Associate Social Events
Here’s what some of our past summer associates had to say:
“The Seward & Kissel Summer Associate Program is an exceptional balance between real professional legal work experience and an exciting, fun work environment. From day one, the program immerses you in meaningful, substantive legal work across various practice areas, training you to think and act like an attorney. What sets Seward & Kissel apart is its close-knit, collegial culture. The firm fosters a collaborative atmosphere where partners, associates, and staff take a genuine interest in your development, always willing to answer questions and provide guidance. Whether through hands-on work, mentorship, or firm events, you gain invaluable insight into what it means to practice law at the highest level. I truly believe there is no better place to start a legal career and no better people to learn from than at Seward & Kissel. The firm’s commitment to excellence, professional development, and fostering meaningful relationships makes this program an unforgettable experience and an incredible foundation for a future in law.” (Matt, Brooklyn)
“The summer at S&K exceeded my expectations in every way. I expected colleagues, and I found both colleagues and friends. I immediately felt that at S&K everyone from the managing partner to the first-year associates was genuinely interested in spending time with me and getting to know me both as a person, and a professional. At S&K the smiles are real, and the work is real. I couldn’t be more grateful to be spending my 2L summer here.” (Ezra, UCLA)
“My time as a Summer Associate at Seward & Kissel only reaffirmed what initially drew me to Seward during the interview process. The people have welcomed myself and the other Summers in with open arms. I have had the great pleasure to work with a variety of associates and partners. One of the things I loved most about this summer was the true open-door policy of each and every attorney. Every attorney was not only willing, but was more than happy to take the time to discuss any questions I had and to present me with background information on every assignment. Each assignment has been distinct, but all have no doubt been intellectually stimulating. S&K is truly the best mix of challenging, yet exciting work and I believe that there are no better people to learn from and no better place to start a legal career than at Seward & Kissel.” (Bailey, Cardozo)
“S&K’s summer program exceeded all of my expectations for a well-rounded, informative, and fun experience. I am particularly grateful for the small summer cohort size and supervisory support structures. I am thrilled with my decision to join Seward and encourage all law students to do the same.” (Shayna, Northwestern)
“The summer associate program at Seward & Kissel is second to none. From the very beginning, all associates and partners have been helpful, supportive, and encouraging. Additionally, Seward & Kissel is quite social with partners and associates checking into your office throughout the day, and frequent social events after work. Seward & Kissel is a phenomenal place to spend your summer!” (Liam, Washington University)
“Seward & Kissel has been a great experience. Everyone at the firm has been extremely helpful by taking time from their work to explain assignments and concepts, as well as getting to know us. There are always opportunities to ask questions and learn from associates and partners. I sought out a firm that had a friendly working atmosphere and valued work-life balance, and Seward has really provided that environment. The summer has been a rewarding, enjoyable experience!” (Tom, Albany)
“Working at S&K has been a great experience. The firm has provided me with a real look at what it may be like to be a full-time associate, while also providing a ton of fun activities to get to know the people. The best part of the summer has definitely been meeting all the individuals at the firm– everyone is kind, cordial, and bright. It is clear that they not only care about your potential as a lawyer, but as a person as well.” (Emanuel, Cardozo)
“My summer at Seward & Kissel was an incredibly rewarding an educational experience. The welcoming environment made it very easy to get to know the associates and partners. Everyone was very generous with their time, whether it was just to get to know each other or explaining the background of a deal I would be working on. From the start of the summer and throughout, I received substantive work that gave me an insight into what associates do on a daily basis. Overall, I had a very positive experience in which I improved my substantive skills, learned a lot about areas of the law that were new to me, and developed relationships with many extremely talented attorneys.” (Matt, Fordham)
“My summer at Seward & Kissel has been everything I expected and more. From the very first day, I felt welcomed by associates and partners and truly felt the spirit of comradery and teamwork that distinguishes Seward & Kissel from other firms. Everyone I have worked with has been open to questions about assignments, the different practice groups, and the firm generally. The assignments have been substantive and thought-provoking, with many of them being catered to the specific interests of each of the Summer Associates. I have felt supported and like every person I have interacted with is rooting for my success within the firm. All of the events have been fun, engaging and a great opportunity to meet other people.” (Mercy, Brooklyn)