Washington University School of Law has developed a new summer course, the Associate in Training (AIT) Program, which focuses on advanced lawyering skills training and professional skill development.
“The goal of the AIT Program is to give law students an opportunity to improve their practical skills and knowledge of a variety of types of law firm settings,” says Tomea Mayer Mersmann, JD, associate dean for strategic initiatives.
“Students taking this course will be able to develop a career plan and additional skills to help launch a successful career in law,” she says.
The AIT program provides:
- advanced skills training in writing, research, litigation and client counseling skills;
- an opportunity to develop an understanding of how a firm or other legal practice settings operate, including law firm economics, practice areas, client development, personal presentation and professionalism; and
- mentoring by practicing attorneys.
“The AIT program is part of the law school’s work to increase summer opportunities for law students that will allow them to obtain valuable skills and exposure to practicing attorneys,” Mersmann says.