New York Summer Associate Program

Our New York 2L Summer Associate Program offers an immersive look at Kirkland’s culture and life at the Firm. From our Midtown Manhattan office, attorneys work seamlessly across Kirkland’s global platform on clients’ most sophisticated and high-stakes matters. As a summer associate, you’ll quickly become part of the team — contributing to meaningful work, gaining exposure to a range of matters and building relationships through mentorship, training and networking events. You’re encouraged to follow your interests and take ownership of your experience as your work grows in depth and responsibility.

You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in our 1L Summer Experience — building a foundation for your 2L summer as you explore practice areas, connect with attorneys and begin shaping your path at Kirkland.

To complement hands-on work experience, summer associates in the New York office also participate in a variety of training, mentorship and development opportunities, which may include:

• Kirkland Institute for Trial Advocacy (KITA), our nationally renowned mock trial program
• Mock board meeting competition, where teams pair with financial advisory groups to make their case before a panel of Kirkland partners, managing directors from participating banks, board members and judges 
• One-on-one engagement opportunities with partners
• Lunch & Learn series, an introduction to our practice groups, our work and our clients
• Practical training sessions led by attorneys

A significant component of our program is getting to know Kirkland attorneys and fellow summers. Your time with us is filled with engaging and enriching events, which may include:

• Professional sporting events
• Wellness series
• "Play for a Cause” field day
• Casino night
• Rooftop receptions and small group dinners
• Theater performances
• Boat cruise