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.
Matthew J. Henderson joined Shutts’ Tallahassee office for the summer from the Florida State University College of Law. Matthew is a Staff Editor for the Florida State Law Review.
Matthew shares his thoughts on his summer experience at Shutts.
Why did you choose to spend your 2024 summer with Shutts?
I chose Shutts because the Tallahassee office has a fantastic reputation in the community for its strong appellate and administrative law practice. Those are the two areas I want to practice in, and the opportunity to learn from the best was something I couldn’t pass up.
What advice would you give to someone about to start the OCI process?
I would say that the best practice going through OCI is to be yourself. You know you would be a valuable asset, so don’t be afraid of demonstrating that in an honest, humble way.
What were your expectations for the summer, and have they been met (or exceeded)?
My expectations were to learn a lot about legal practice, improve my research and writing skills, and develop mentoring relationships. All of these have been exceeded. This has been one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my law school career.