The University of Oregon School of Law introduces its new one-year legal apprenticeship program for new graduates through the Resident Associate Program (RAP).
The program offers a cost-effective way for legal employers to meet their current staffing needs while simultaneously providing valuable employment opportunities for new law school graduates.
A key benefit of the program is that it allows employers to take advantage of cost savings by hiring a well-qualified, practice-ready associate from Oregon’s top-ranked law school at a reduced rate.
“This program is well-suited for employers that don’t typically hire entry-level lawyers and those that may be hesitant to make longer-term employment offers during a time of economic uncertainty,” said Rebecca Ivanoff, Assistant Dean of the Center for Career Planning and Professional Development.
Ivanoff notes that employers enjoy the benefit of the Resident Associate’s work along with the knowledge that they are contributing to the development of the profession’s next generation of lawyers and leaders. Although not a requirement of the program, employers may elect to make a longer-term employment offer after working closely with the Resident Associate for a year.
“Our team facilitates every step of the recruitment process to ensure it is easy and streamlined,” said Ivanoff. “And we offer ongoing professional development support for all Resident Associates.”
Key Features of the RAP:
- Defined Commitment: Try out an associate for one year before making a longer-term commitment.
- Cost Savings: Determine a reasonable salary for the Resident Associate that reflects the special nature of the position. Rely on our team for expert guidance.
- Practice-Ready Candidates: Select from well-trained candidates who have obtained at least six units of practical experience in law school.
- Streamlined Recruitment: Submit your hiring criteria and we will collect application materials for you.
- Meaningful Training: Let Oregon Law help train your Resident Associate through access to CLE programs.
Employers who are interested in this program can register here.
Individuals who have questions or would like to learn more about the program, can contact Rebecca Ivanoff, Assistant Dean for Career Planning and Professional Development, at rivanoff@uoregon.edu.
Related pages and articles
Resident Associate Program (RAP)
Career Center Employer Resources
By School of Law Career Planning and Professional Development Center