Shook Scholars Institute

The Shook Scholars Institute is an innovative diversity and inclusion-focused development program concentrated on litigation and trial skills, leadership and career success competencies. 

Shook is excited to host a select group of first-year law students at the Shook Scholars Institute in Kansas City, Missouri, April 3–5, 2024. The Shook Scholars Institute is an innovative, three-day diversity and inclusion-focused development program concentrated on litigation and trial skills, leadership, and career success
competencies. Student travel, lodging, and meals will be provided by Shook.

At Shook, inclusion is about creating a space where everyone belongs. We recognize that the varied perspectives and experiences found in a diverse and inclusive workplace create a broader, richer environment, and produce innovative solutions for our clients. The Shook Scholars Institute gives law students the rare opportunity to learn from a litigation and trial powerhouse in an interactive, small-group setting led by Shook's attorneys. It provides critical development skills while introducing students to valuable relationships and networks. Participating law students will experience a trial practice program, sessions on lawyering skills, leadership, success strategies and networking opportunities. 

The application process requires a completed online application, resume, law school transcript and a one-page essay explaining how you demonstrate achievement of the Shook Scholars Institute selection criteria and how you will contribute to the advancement of diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.

A selection panel will evaluate all applications, considering the factors below:

• Demonstrated academic performance and leadership achievements.
• Significant personal achievements and strong community involvement.
• Demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion and equity in the legal profession and/or community.
• Sincere interest in practicing at a top civil litigation firm.

The application process is open to all first-year law students enrolled full-time and in good standing at an ABA accredited law school.

A selection committee will evaluate all applications, considering the criteria below:

• Demonstrated academic performance and leadership achievements.
• Significant personal achievements and strong community involvement.
• Demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion and equity in the legal profession and/or community.
• Sincere interest in practicing at a top civil litigation firm.

The Shook Scholars flyer includes additional information about the program and application process.