Our Programs
National Scholars Program
Empowering Tomorrow’s Legal Leaders
The DAPP National Scholars Program is a transformative, year-long initiative tailored for first-year women law students who are traditionally underrepresented in the legal field. Our mission is to create a pathway for talented scholars to thrive academically and professionally, providing the foundation they need to succeed in prestigious legal roles. Scholars benefit from personalized mentorship, rigorous academic support, and exclusive career-building opportunities.
Comprehensive Academic Support
The program includes weekly sessions focusing on legal writing, black letter law, exam prep, and tailored coaching, empowering scholars to navigate the challenges of law school with confidence.
Paid Internship Placement Assistance
Through DAPP’s partnerships with top law firms and corporations, scholars receive critical support in securing meaningful, career-launching summer internships.
Professional Development & Mentorship
Scholars participate in hands-on workshops, mock interviews, resume-building sessions, and gain tangible legal experience that propels them from practicing attorneys who provide real-world guidance.
Community & Networking
Scholars join a supportive national network of peers, mentors, and DAPP alumni who are committed to their success, providing long-term connections in the legal field.
Weekly Sessions
Engaging and intensive weekly workshops cover topics such as:
Legal Research and Writing
Exam Preparation and Practice
Professional Development Skills (resume writing, interviewing, and networking)
Black Letter Law Review
Mentorship from Legal Professionals:
Each scholar is paired with a mentor who offers guidance, resources, and valuable insights into law school and the legal profession.
Exclusive Access to DAPP Direct:
Selected scholars are invited to participate in DAPP Direct, a national job fair offering direct access to internship and externship opportunities at major law firms and corporations.
Financial Assistance & Resources:
DAPP provides financial resources to help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with law school, including assistance with study aids.
Mentorship & Guidance
Scholars work closely with mentors who support them academically and professionally throughout the program.
Career Development Resources
Scholars are trained in key professional skills, enhancing their marketability in the legal field.
In-Depth Academic Skill-Building
Weekly sessions bolster foundational skills in legal analysis, writing, and test preparation.
Nationwide Support Network
DAPP fosters connections among scholars, mentors, and alumni, building a strong community of support.
National Scholars Program Committee
DAPP Direct
Connecting Talent with Opportunity
DAPP Direct is a national job placement initiative that connects qualified women law students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds with valuable summer internships at prestigious law firms and corporations across the country. This program is designed to empower students by providing direct access to legal opportunities, bolstering their skills, and supporting them as they begin their legal careers.
National Job Placement Fair
Through a virtual job fair, DAPP Direct brings together top law firms, corporate legal departments, and talented law students, creating an accessible, supportive platform for internship opportunities.
Client-Readiness Boot Camp
Before beginning their internships, students participate in an intensive client-readiness boot camp, preparing them with curated sessions, essential professional skills, brand and communication trainings, and the confidence to thrive.
Exclusive Networking Opportunities
Scholars engage directly with influential attorneys and recruiters, building connections that can be instrumental throughout their careers.
Career Development Resources
DAPP Direct offers ongoing resources, including resume reviews, interview preparation, and targeted workshops to ensure students are well-prepared for their internships and beyond.
National Job Placement Fair:
Students are invited to a virtual job fair featuring top-tier legal employers. Here, they have the opportunity to interview with firms and companies looking for highly motivated, skilled, and diverse candidates.
Boot Camp Training:
Once placed, students attend a boot camp that includes:
- Professional Development Training for client interactions, workplace etiquette, and business communication.
- Skill-Building Sessions tailored to enhance client-readiness, legal research, and writing.
Support & Mentorship:
Throughout the internship, fellows and scholars receive mentorship and guidance from DAPP’s network of attorneys, giving them an additional layer of support as they navigate their roles.
Paid Summer Internships
DAPP Direct connects scholars with internships that provide both practical legal experience and financial compensation.
Career-Building Skills
Through boot camp training and professional development, scholars gain essential workplace skills that prepare them for their internships and future legal careers.
Long-Term Networking
Scholars gain access to DAPP’s extensive network of law firms, legal professionals, fellows, and scholars, creating lasting professional relationships.
If you’re a first-year women law student who is traditionally underrepresented in the legal field, DAPP Direct could be the stepping stone you need. Check back in August 2025 for the next round of applications, and start your journey toward a thriving legal career with DAPP Direct.
