Our Summer Associate Program is a key pathway for identifying and hiring future associates. Each year, participants share valuable insights about their experience at Ruder Ware—highlighting the mentorship, meaningful work, and collaborative culture that define our firm.
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“Ruder Ware put me in the room where decisions were made. In so many ways, it has provided me what law school cannot: the actual experience of being a lawyer. I witnessed what it took to close a transaction, negotiate a settlement, and deliver a devastating cross-examination at trial.”
Attorney Ian Colby |
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“I feel lucky to have participated in the Summer Associate program at Ruder Ware, a firm filled with friendly legal professionals who are generous with their time and who don’t hesitate to drop difficult legal work on your desk. As the projects multiplied and the weeks passed by, I started to learn how to be an attorney.”
Attorney Lucas Sczygelski |
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“As a Summer Associate at Ruder Ware, I was involved in a wide variety of projects and practice areas right from the start. I worked directly with attorneys and staff and understood how my research, drafting, and other work directly served our clients. Although I came in open to anything, the partners in my preferred practice area made sure my time here had a focus on areas I wanted to learn more about and experience I hoped to gain.”
Attorney Ruth Ross |
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“As a Ruder Ware Summer Associate, I experienced a level of trust that made me confident in my ability to effectively practice law after graduation. Under the supervision of very welcoming attorneys, I was able to provide a wide variety of legal services to the businesses and individuals Ruder Ware represents. From helping to form a business entity one day, to working to secure its interests the next, I witnessed and participated in the tangibly positive impact Ruder Ware brings Wisconsin communities each and every day.”
Attorney Jackson Lindquist |
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“Ruder Ware gave me the experience I desired and needed. From completing challenging legal work to attending client meetings, I engaged in the enlightening, practical, and exciting process of being a lawyer. Whether it be the supportive attorneys, ever present mentors, or always helpful legal assistants, the Ruder Ware family made it a joy to come to work every day.”
Attorney Jacob Schraeder |
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“Ruder Ware gave me the meaningful experience I was looking for this summer. I was able to work alongside excellent attorneys who worked with me to develop the skills necessary to complete challenging legal work. Throughout the summer, I developed key skills in communication and relationship development with Ruder Ware clients. From assisting with business transactions, to working to solve medical and compliance issues for healthcare clients, I was able to develop substantive business and health law skills. I was fortunate to join the Ruder Ware environment where every individual strives to achieve a common goal of supporting their clients and Wisconsin communities. I sincerely enjoyed being a part of the Ruder Ware team, and I am extremely thankful to have had this experience.”
Attorney Catherine McCormick |
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“Ruder Ware has afforded me the opportunity to gain tangible experiences in numerous practice areas. From assisting with the formation of an LLC, to attending depositions – my time as a Summer Associate has undoubtedly helped build my confidence as a future attorney. The importance of collaboration and the eagerness to work on challenging law that Ruder Ware has instilled in me is something I know I will carry with me throughout my career. I am grateful for the ongoing mentorship from the attorneys and all the helpful, welcoming employees who have made my summer so rewarding.” Attorney Morgan Sweeney |
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“I will be forever grateful for the wonderful 12 weeks I had at Ruder Ware as a Summer Associate, and I am sincerely thankful for the mentorship, experiences, and opportunities I gained. This role provided me with valuable hands-on experience in several practice areas. From participating in estate planning discussions to observing hearings to drafting legal documents to networking and community events, my time in Wausau significantly bolstered my confidence as I prepare for my future as an attorney. The emphasis on collaboration and the passion for addressing complex and niche legal issues that Ruder Ware has instilled in me are insights I will carry throughout my career. I am truly grateful for the ongoing guidance from the truly second-to-none attorneys and the supportive staff who contributed to making my summer so fulfilling!” Attorney McKenna Coffeen |
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“Working as a Summer Associate at Ruder Ware, I had the opportunity to explore multiple practice areas, which provided me with valuable insights into the nuances of different fields of law. The attorneys at the firm were exceptional mentors, consistently taking time to involve me in key meetings, address my questions, and guide my learning in areas where I needed further clarification. One of the highlights of my experience was working with the firm’s outstanding legal staff, who were incredibly welcoming and supportive; their kindness and professionalism made a lasting impression on me, and I already miss the camaraderie we developed. The firm also organized several events outside of work, providing incredible opportunities to build relationships with the attorneys and gain insights into Ruder Ware’s culture and daily life. Overall, my summer experience was both educational and fun, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a dynamic and supportive team.” Attorney Morgan Boyd |
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