The Catholic University of America

An association is typically a nonprofit organization that represents its membership in a variety of ways. Associations provide relevant information, educate their members and others, and advocate their members’ interests in federal and state legislatures. Attorneys who work for associations monitor legislation, write newsletters to members, research issues and policies, coordinate annual meetings, and much more. Examples of associations include the American Bar Association, National Audubon Society, and National District Attorneys Association.

There are a multitude of trade associations in the legal and nonlegal professions that offer student memberships. Additionally, student members may be allowed to attend seminars or conferences to learn more about the “hot” issues in a particular field and to network. For example, if you are interested in communications law, you may want to contact representatives of the Federal Communications Bar Association, located in Washington, D.C. Trade associations also organize panel presentations, hold meetings, and publish membership directories that can be used to identify people for informational interviews.

If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact OCPD at (202) 319-5132.