The Auckland District Law Society Inc. (ADLSI) has announced it will further expand its law student support programs outside of Auckland to other parts of New Zealand later this year.
A work experience pilot program and student-buddy mentoring program were launched last year in partnership with the
University of Auckland Law Students’ Society.
“We piloted both schemes in Auckland last year, and to date have managed to find work experience opportunities for around 20 students and brought together 90 students and 90 lawyers in the buddy mentoring program,” said Michele Dodds, GM marketing and member services at ADLSI.
The work experience program is of most appeal to smaller firms, she added, as many larger firms already have their own internship programs in place.
“We’ve found that the ADLSI work experience program creates opportunities for senior law students to experience working in a law firm while they study, which is a very good thing for the future of the profession.”
The buddy program, on the other hand, pairs a senior law student with a young lawyer who has one or two years of experience.
“We know from experience that these programs are highly valued, and we are interested in hearing from students, law firms and potential buddies,” ADLSI President, Brian Keene QC said.
To help with the rollout, Dodds explained that ADLSI had already presented these programs to a number of law student association presidents across New Zealand late last year.
“As a result we are extending our programs to other parts of NZ this year, continuing with our successful relationship with the University of Auckland Law Students’ Society.”
The work experience program and buddy schemes will be launched in Waikato in May and Canterbury in August. In Wellington, the work experience program will commence in May.
The re-launch of the Auckland buddy program also took place this week with the launch event being oversubscribed, Dodds added.
Both programs are a win-win for all involved, she said.
“Law firms get to build connections with senior law students and contribute to the development and future of the profession.
“Students get an idea of what working life after university might be like and also get the chance to sample different specialist areas – which will help with job choices after graduation – and learn from the experiences of their buddy.”
Firms interested in joining the work experience program should visit
ADLSI’s website, said Dodds. Those who wish to join the buddy program can send an email to
[email protected].
