1Elevate Diversity Fellowship
1Elevate: Varnum's 1L Diversity Fellowship
At Varnum, we believe in cultivating talent and fostering diversity within the legal profession. We are proud to introduce 1Elevate, our unique 1L Diversity Fellowship. This program is more than just an opportunity—it’s a pathway to a successful legal career with one of Michigan’s leading law firms.
Why 1Elevate?
1Elevate is designed to support first-year law students (1Ls) from the start of their legal journey. This unique initiative offers our fellows an exceptional chance to secure full-time employment at Varnum after successfully completing their first summer with us.
Who Should Apply?
We are seeking 1L students who are not only academically outstanding, but also demonstrate a deep commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal field. Our goal is to enhance the recruitment and retention of attorneys from historically underrepresented backgrounds—though we welcome applications from any qualified candidates who share this commitment.
Fellowship Qualifications
- Eligibility: Open to 1L students in good standing at ABA-accredited law schools.
- Academic Excellence: Applicants must have strong academic credentials and exemplary writing skills.
- Dedication to Diversity: Applicants must demonstrate a genuine commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal profession.
Application Requirements
To apply, candidates must submit the following documents:
- Current Resume
- Transcripts: Both law school and undergraduate transcripts are required.
- Personal Statement: A maximum 1,000-word essay addressing your commitment to diversity and inclusion in the legal field, and your intent to practice law in Michigan after graduation. Please highlight your previous or existing leadership roles, work experience, or community service, and/or any applicable challenges you have faced and overcome in any of those endeavors.
The 1Elevate Experience
- Paid Summer Associate Position: Gain hands-on experience working as a 1L summer associate at Varnum.
- Future Prospects: Successful fellows may receive an invitation to return as a 2L summer associate and a full-time post-graduation job offer.
- In-House Exposure: Fellows may have the opportunity to work in-house with one of our clients during their second summer.
- Ongoing Mentorship: Fellows will benefit from extended mentorship throughout their 2L year, including networking opportunities and professional coaching from Varnum attorneys.
Selection Process
Our selection process is designed to ensure fairness and inclusivity:
- Early Start: Separate from the traditional 2L on-campus interview process, the selection timeline kicks off in early 2025.
- Blind Review: Initial personal statement reviews are conducted without identifying information.
- Comprehensive Interviews: Candidates participate in multiple 25-minute interviews.
- Holistic Evaluation: Decisions are based on a thorough review of resumes, transcripts, personal statements and interview performance.
Our application period will open in early December 2024, and we will begin considering applications in January 2025. Applicants can apply without their first semester grades, but must supplement their applications with their transcripts as soon as they receive them.
Elevate Your Career with Varnum LLP
1Elevate is more than just a fellowship—it’s a launchpad for your legal career. Join us at Varnum and take the first step toward a future where your contributions to diversity and excellence in the legal profession will be truly valued and supported.