1L Diversity Fellowships Explained

Diversity fellowships are one of the most important on-ramps into BigLaw for first-year law students. They offer paid summer positions at top firms, mentorship, and often a path to a 2L summer associate offer. But the application process is different from standard OCI, and many students miss the opportunity because they do not know it exists.

What are diversity fellowships?

Most major BigLaw firms run 1L diversity fellowship programs. These are structured summer positions for first-year law students from underrepresented backgrounds. The programs typically include:

• A paid summer associate position (usually 8-10 weeks at full summer associate pay)
• A scholarship or stipend, often $10,000 to $50,000
• Mentorship pairing with a senior associate or partner
• Networking events and professional development programming

Firms like Kirkland & Ellis, Latham & Watkins, Skadden, and Paul Weiss all run substantial diversity fellowship programs.

Who is eligible?

Eligibility varies by firm, but most programs are open to students who contribute to the diversity of the legal profession. This typically includes students who are:

• Members of racial or ethnic minority groups
• First-generation college or law students
• From disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds
• LGBTQ+ identifying
• Students with disabilities
• Veterans

Some programs define diversity broadly, while others focus on specific communities. Read each firm's eligibility criteria carefully.

The application timeline

This is where students get caught off guard. Diversity fellowship applications are due much earlier than standard 2L recruiting:

• September to November (1L year): Most applications open and close during the fall semester. Some firms have deadlines as early as September.
• December to January: Interviews, usually one or two rounds.
• January to February: Offers are extended.

If you are a 1L, you need to start researching programs within weeks of starting law school. The firm directory can help you identify which firms run these programs.

How to apply

Most applications require:

• Resume
• Cover letter explaining your background and interest in the firm
• Personal statement or diversity statement
• Transcript (often just first-semester grades or undergraduate transcript)
• Writing sample
• Two references

The personal statement is the most important piece. Firms want to understand your story, what challenges you have faced, and how your perspective will contribute to the firm and the profession.

Tips for a strong application

Be specific about the firm. Generic applications are obvious. Research the firm's diversity initiatives, pro bono work, and practice areas. Explain why this specific firm appeals to you.

Tell your story authentically. The personal statement is not a resume in essay form. It is your chance to explain your background, your motivations, and what you bring to the table.

Apply broadly. Submit to 10-15 programs. The acceptance rates are competitive, and you want options.

Connect with current fellows. Reach out to students who have done the fellowship at your target firms. They can give you insight into what the firm values.

Diversity fellowships are a meaningful pathway into BigLaw. If you qualify, they are worth every hour of application effort. Browse the firm directory to start building your target list.