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.
Hallie N. Young joined Shutts’ Miami office for the summer from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. Hallie is a member of the Environment Law and Land Use Society, Association for Tax Law, and OUTLAW.
Hallie shares her thoughts on her summer experience at Shutts.
Why did you choose to spend your 2024 Summer with Shutts?
I chose to spend my 2024 Summer with Shutts because I wanted the chance to experience all of the different practice areas that a full-service law firm like Shutts has to offer. Before this Summer, I was very split between transactional work and litigation. Unlike other firms where you join a specific practice group or formally rotate, Shutts offered me the flexibility to really focus on those areas I found myself torn between while giving me the ability to learn from many different attorneys.
What is something new that you learned during the summer program?
I learned the type of workload that I am capable of juggling and how to make sure I do not overfill my plate. While I was eager to take on every project and learn as much as possible, I found it was more helpful when I allowed myself extra time to really understand the projects I took on rather than trying to prioritize speed.
What advice would you give to someone about to start the OCI process?
I would tell anyone about to start the OCI process to really do their homework on the firms they think they’re interested in but to make sure they are not trying too hard to fit the “mold.” There are great things about every law firm, so it is really about trying to find the one that fits with your personality, interest areas, and desired work culture. Ask lots of questions and try to talk to as many different attorneys as possible.