Northwestern University School of Law this week sent a memo to recent graduates and alumni offering additional services that might serve as a "short-term bridge to the next step" in their careers in the face of economic difficulties in the legal industry. "We are taking proactive steps to identify and establish additional ways that the law school can help our graduating students and alumni during this challenging period," said dean David Van Zandt.

The Chicago school offered to help graduating students whose new law firm employers have deferred associate start dates to get internships at the school's legal clinics or other public service organizations. The school also offered assistance in applying for short-term private health insurance and in postponement of student loan repayment schedules. In addition, Northwestern said it would increase access to lawyers on its advisory board for networking purposes and connect students with legal recruiters and consultants offering discounted services.

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