Summer Program

McDonald Hopkins prides itself on being a Destination Firm for new attorneys looking to build dynamic, meaningful, and long-term careers in law. Our culture is one that fosters growth, mentorship, and innovation at every stage, offering professionals the tools and support they need to thrive.

As part of our commitment to developing the next generation of leaders, our Summer Program provides the opportunity for law school students to gain hands-on experience, build lasting connections, and explore what makes McDonald Hopkins more than just a stepping stone in a career.  

Learn more about our Summer Program below. For questions about our program and recruiting schedule, please contact Alexandra Ripich, our Director of Recruiting, at aripich@mcdonaldhopkins.com. 

Overview

Our 10-week Summer Program is for 2L law students in our Cleveland, Chicago and Detroit offices. Our program is designed to give summer associates a realistic perspective of what it is like to be an associate attorney at McDonald Hopkins. Summer Associates will receive actual, billable work, mentorship, and the opportunity to participate in fun networking activities.

Training & Mentorship

• Orientation: All Summer Associates will kick off the Summer Program with a two-day orientation in Cleveland to prepare for a successful summer, meet key contacts and receive structured training.
• Mentors: Each Summer Associate is assigned a senior associate or member who will serve as their mentor throughout the summer.
• Communication: No matter which office you work in, our goal is to keep all Summer Associates connected - in the same way our attorneys and staff work together and stay connected remotely and across all our markets. We host a weekly Zoom meeting serves as a check-in for the Summer Associates, where we discuss assignments, office life, and overall experience. We also invite practice leaders, internal departments (Marketing & Business Development, Accounting, IT, etc.), and committees (Professional Development, Women's Council, etc.) to join our weekly meetings, to provide more insight on our firm and the day-to-day business operations of McDonald Hopkins.  

Assignments & Evaluations

• Assignments: Summer Associates have the opportunity to receive assignments from all departments, allowing them to explore and refine their individual interests. As those interests become clearer, their workload becomes more tailored to preferred practice areas. Assignments consist of meaningful, billable work that reflects the real responsibilities of McDonald Hopkins associate attorneys. Summer Associates are also encouraged to participate in non-billable projects and pro bono matters to gain a well-rounded experience.
• Evaluations: Summer Associates will receive evaluations on all assignments, both in-person and written. Each Summer Associate will also have a formal mid-summer and end-of-summer evaluation.

Summer Events

Summer associates are welcomed into the full rhythm of firm life - from client events and networking happy hours, to department and committee meetings. Outside of the office, we provide meaningful social opportunities where Summer Associates can connect with our attorneys in relaxed, fun settings like baseball games, whirly ball, boat cruises, cooking classes, and organized dinners.