The Cozen O’Connor summer associate program ranks #1 in the nation, according to an annual survey conducted by The American Lawyer magazine.The 2009 Summer Associates Survey generated feedback from nearly 5,000 first- and second-year law students at 151 firms, using nine job satisfaction questions. These ranged from work interest, to how much “real” work was assigned, to caliber of training and guidance, and positive level of communication between partners and associates. Participants also rated their firm overall as a place to work.

“We’re very proud of this ranking, which reflects our deep commitment to cultivating the talent of our summer associates and supporting their advancement in the legal field,” said Tad Decker, president and CEO of Cozen O’Connor.

Directed by member Scott Brucker, the program exposes summer associates to both the firm’s business and litigation practices, with students splitting their time between the two. In addition, each associate is assigned to a writing mentor who provides constructive feedback on all assignments. More junior lawyers serve as social mentors, helping the summer associates acclimate to working in a law firm.

“The associates benefit from an integrated program and the intense mentoring of our team of dedicated attorneys, who not only offer challenging and interesting assignments, but also diverse practice experience and perspectives,” said Sarah Davies, the firm’s hiring partner.

Cozen recently announced that it extended entry-level offers to 75 percent of its 16 second-year Philadelphia summer associates, and to both of its Seattle summer associates. While many programs are being reduced, the firm is actively recruiting its 2010 summer class, with plans to hire approximately 14 second-year law students for the Philadelphia, New York and Seattle offices.