Law Students
1Elevate
1Elevate: Varnum's 1L Fellowship
At Varnum, we believe in cultivating talent and fostering diversity within the legal profession. We are proud to introduce 1Elevate, our unique 1L 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 the 1Elevate Program?
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 with strong academic credentials who value a genuine commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal profession. All qualified 1L students are encouraged to apply.
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.
- Values Diversity: Applicants who value 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
- Undergraduate Transcript
- Writing Sample:Â Submit a writing sample, such as a legal memo or brief from a legal writing class, to demonstrate your writing competency.
The 1Elevate Experience
- Paid Summer Associate Position: Gain hands-on experience working as a 1L Summer Associate at Varnum.
- Future Prospects: In addition to a 1L summer offer, 1Elevate Fellows receive an invitation to return as a 2L Summer Associate following a successful summer. Fellows may also be eligible for a post-graduation employment offer upon completion of their 1L summer.
- 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: The selection process will begin December 2026.
- Blind Review: Initial 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, writing samples, and interview performance.
Applicants can apply without their first semester grades, but must supplement their applications with their transcripts as soon as they receive them.
Key Contact
Makayla H. Flore
- Attorney Recruiting and Professional Development Manager
- mhflore@varnumlaw.com
- 616/336-6675
Monica L. Vazquez
- Senior Director of Talent
- mlvazquez@varnumlaw.com
- 616/336-6137