Joining the V&E Team

Our reputation as a top-tier global law firm begins with developing talented lawyers who are leaders in their fields of law. Our shared passion to be the best at what we do brings us together at Vinson & Elkins.

As a V&E Summer Associate, you will have real opportunities to do substantive work in a variety of practice areas, have direct client contact, and work side-by-side with accomplished attorneys who care about your success. We offer a competitive salary of $4,327 per week. A variety of social and community activities will also give you the chance to get to know your colleagues in a relaxed environment, and you will find out that having fun is part of our culture.

We hope you will consider this unique opportunity to explore your career options at a firm that values inclusiveness and diverse perspectives – where lawyers and staff respect and support one another.

Top 10 Application Tips

1. Do Your Homework Upfront: Know why you are interested in a particular firm.

• Research firms and understand the kind of work a firm does and what it offers that interests you.
  (Utilize Vault and Chambers as credible resources.)
• Think about how you can add value.
• Know a firm’s office locations and why a particular geographic area is desirable.

2. Utilize Your Career Services Office: CSO staff have abundant experience and resources and want to help you succeed.

• Consider taking a self-assessment. Many CSOs offer free assessments to students to help identify strengths and potential career paths.
• Ask a member of Career Services to review your resume and provide suggestions.

3. Cover Letters are Important.

• Dates you will be in town/available to interview.
• Your city of preference. Be specific, and include your interest in the area.
• Any preferences for particular practice areas, if known.
• Why you are interested in this firm.

4. Resumes Should be Clean, Concise, and Interesting… And No More Than a Single Page.

• Sweat the small stuff, paying attention to every detail.
• If something is on your resume, it is fair game to be asked about (e.g., language skills, thesis, relevant experience, personal interests, etc.).

5. Provide Transcript as Soon as it’s Available. Include your GPA on Your Resume, if Known.

6. Proofread, Proofread, Proofread! Error Free is Key.

• Be careful that all fields and names are correct.
• Review your cover letter and resume multiple times; and have someone else proof for you.
• Simple and consistent formatting also is important.

7. Timing is Key! Submit Your Application as Early as Possible.

8. Follow Application Directions on the Firm’s Website. If Instructions are to Submit Online, Don’t Email Materials.

• Only provide a writing sample or personal statement if asked; same rule for references and recommendation letters.
• Also, be timely and responsive with follow-up requests from firms.

9. Be Socially Aware. Know What is Available Online About You.

• Consider making your personal social media accounts only viewable to friends.
• Be sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and professional.
• Use an email address that is professional and identifies you by name. (Avoid overly casual addresses such as cooldude101@gmail.com.)

10. Prepare for Your Interview and be Sure to Follow up After!

• Dress professionally for the interview. If in doubt, wear something else.
• Know about the firm and be able to concisely express why you are interested. When possible, know something about your interviewers.
• Have a good response to why you decided to attend law school.
• Be confident, but careful not to come across as flippant or arrogant. Be genuine – be yourself!
• Avoid ghosting. Be responsive to emails and calls from firms, even if you are declining. Reach out if you
  have questions!

For first- and second-year law students

Vinson & Elkins awards a number of Diversity Fellowships to the brightest law students from top U.S. law schools. Each Fellow receives up to $50,000 along with a summer clerkship in one of our U.S. offices.

Learn more and apply to our 1L or 2L Diversity Fellowships.

Vinson & Elkins recruits top law students across the U.S. Our lawyers are active on campus throughout the year, including interviewing at on-campus interviewing programs and job fairs, engaging with affinity groups, hosting events, and mentoring students.