Co-Counsel Program
The Co-Counsel Program is William & Mary Law School's professional mentorship program, designed to foster meaningful relationships between first-year law students (Junior Counsel) and experienced alumni (Senior Counsel). Through thoughtfully matched partnerships based on shared interests, geographic connections and other common experiences, students gain valuable insights into law school, career development and the practice of law while beginning to build their professional networks.
This is a one-year mentorship program with no expectations beyond the year, though many have built lifelong friendships in the past. Co-Counsel is, first and foremost, a mentorship program, and alumni who participate are not expected to make internships or jobs available or to hire students.
Once matches are announced, alumni will receive program guidance and resources to support their role as mentors. Co-Counsel pairs are encouraged to meet at least once during the fall semester, and twice during the spring, either virtually or in person. At the conclusion of the program, both mentors and mentees complete evaluations to help strengthen and enhance the experience for future participants.
Applications for Senior & Junior Counsel will open Wednesday, August 26. Matches will be made by mid-October.*
*Please note that submission of an application does not guarantee a match, as the number of Senior Counsel applicants and Junior Counsel applicants may be uneven. Matches will be made to best serve the needs of the student. If you are not matched, we invite you to participate in one of the other opportunities to remain involved with the Law School and its students.
Testimonials
Junior Counsel Testimonials
"I enjoyed hearing from a practicing attorney to remind me that law school is just the beginning and to look forward to a legal career."
"I enjoyed my co-counsel! He was very nice & reached out to me over the spring semester to see how it was going. When I was in D.C. he made time to meet up with me as well."
"It was great having an alum to rely on when I needed it. It took away the awkwardness of finding someone on my own and trying to see if we had similar interests. My Co-Counsel also gave me very helpful advice on how to use my time here efficiently."
"Having someone understand where I am coming from and being willing to listen and offer advice is invaluable."
Senior Counsel Testimonials
"I was able to help my junior counsel learn what environmental organizations/groups are in the area. I also helped my junior counsel by giving her advice during her summer internship search and helped introduce her to the environmental group she will be ex-turning with next year. I think the most impact aspect of the program is providing students with someone who can help guide them when they feel overwhelmed with options/decisions and want to hear from someone who went through the process recently."
"The most impactful thing about the program was speaking with a current William & Mary student and helping her navigate through the first year of law school. It was also great to share some career advice and learn the future goals of my junior counsel."
"Interacting with the students is very fulfilling. I'm delighted they're interested in getting advice from me. It's a lot of fun working with them."