1L LCLD Scholars Program Reed Smith is proud to be a member of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD). The LCLD is made up of more than 275 corporate chief legal officers and law firm managing partners working to build a more open and diverse legal profession. As a member of the LCLD, our Chicago, Dallas, Houston, and Pittsburgh offices are pleased to participate in the 1L LCLD Scholars Program, which is designed to strengthen the legal pipeline by expanding the number of opportunities for first-year law students. The program offers students the opportunity to work side-by-side with our lawyers as part of our Summer Associate Program. In addition to that valuable professional experience our 1L LCLD Scholars will gain working with Reed Smith attorneys and clients, this program also introduces participants to the value of relationships and building networks with LCLD Members. Added benefits for 1L LCLD Scholars include: 2024 1L LCLD Scholars Virtual Summit designed specifically for 1L Scholars, focusing on leadership, relationship building, and career development strategies. The summit will include sessions on personality type in the workplace, law firm mechanics, and wellness. 1L LCLD Scholars will have an opportunity to participate in a Resume and Interview Writing workshop as well as Virtual Mock Interviews with attorneys from LCLD Member law firms. Networking opportunities via a LinkedIn group dedicated to articles and discussions relevant to all 1L LCLD Scholars. Qualifications Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusiveness and/or demonstrated success in overcoming significant adversity in their path to law school Current 1L law student in good standing Top academic performance Excellent verbal and written communication skills Strong interpersonal skills Community involvement Work experience How to apply Applications will be accepted from November 1, 2023 until January 31, 2024. To apply, please complete an online application. You will need: Current resume Cover letter A statement discussing commitment to diversity and inclusion and/or how you overcame significant adversity in the path to law school Undergraduate and law school transcripts (unofficial versions are acceptable) Legal writing sample You may submit your application prior to obtaining your first semester law transcript, but please note that applications will not be considered complete until your law transcript is received. Interviews will take place after first semester grades are released. Your cover letter, in addition to briefly summarizing your professional background, should include information pertaining to your reasons for applying to Reed Smith and your connections to the location for which you are applying. Your statement, which should be no more than one page, should elaborate on how your unique life experiences have contributed to your personal and professional growth as well as your reasons for pursuing a career in law. Recruiting contacts Dallas: Anelyse DeVries Chicago: Katie Sikon Houston: Carin Asby Pittsburgh: Katie Sikon