Our 2024 Summer Associate Program brought 13 law students from five law schools to the firm for an intellectually challenging and professionally gratifying experience. The students took part in firm-sponsored social events and community service projects throughout the summer in addition to attending client meetings, depositions, court hearings and other proceedings. Nearing the end of the program, the students agreed to share a few highlights from their summer at Shutts.
Allison N. Laudadio joined Shutts’ Tampa office for the summer from the Florida State University. Allison is the president of the Student Bar Association and a member of the Moot Court Team, Young Lawyers Section of the Tallahassee Bar Association and the Dean’s Student Advisory Board.
Allison shares her thoughts on her summer experience at Shutts.
Why did you choose to spend your 2024 summer with Shutts?
Shutts represents everything I want in a firm: the office culture is collaborative and motivating, and the attorneys are brilliant and kind. I chose Shutts because each person I met during the interview process showed genuine respect and admiration for the firm and for each other. Therefore, I felt confident that I would be a valued asset if I chose to spend my 2024 summer with Shutts.
What is something new that you learned during the summer program?
I learned the importance and benefit of maintaining a strong presence in the community outside of your work as an attorney. Throughout the summer, I was repeatedly impressed by how involved the Tampa attorneys are with various community initiatives, including pro bono work. Though the attorneys are extremely busy, they take the time to give back in many different ways, from the Wills for Heroes project, to serving on the board for the Gasparilla Arts Festival, to participating in Leadership Tampa and more. Extracurricular involvement and pro bono work have been the most rewarding part of my law school experience, so I’m thrilled to learn that I can continue to give back as an attorney at Shutts.
What advice would you give to someone about to start the OCI process?
Don’t be afraid to show your personality on your resume and in your interview. While still being professional, you can share about the hobbies or involvements that make you unique. When you’re choosing a firm to spend your summer at, you want to like the attorneys you’ll work with, and you want them to like you right back. Do your research, work hard, come prepared, and be your best self.