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The vast majority of companies involved in our program participate every year.

We think that says a lot about the quality of our students and program. 

Benefits for Companies

• Our students represent the best in academic excellence, leadership, and professional presence. They have taken a broad array of courses and have learned key research, writing, and drafting skills from our nationally- and internationally-recognized faculty, as well as seasoned practitioners.
• With just a modest investment of time, your attorneys can contribute to the education and professional development of future lawyers.
• Many companies report that law students add energy and “fun” to their corporate law department.
• Placements may be fully virtual, hybrid, or in-person.
• There is no cost to participating companies. Students receive academic credit only.
• The program is a learning experience. There is no expectation of temporary or regular employment.

Field Supervisor Responsibilities

• Each company appoints one attorney to serve as the student’s field supervisor. This person oversees the student experience at the company.
• Field supervisors assign work to the student and complete two short evaluations at the middle and end of the externship.
• Field supervisors work with faculty supervisors, as appropriate, to ensure the quality of the educational experience.

If your corporate legal department is interested in hosting an 51³Ô¹ÏÍøDedman Law student through the program, please contact Stephen Yeager at syeager@smu.edu.  The placement process for the fall semester starts in March of the previous academic year.