Our 2025 Summer Associate Program brought 11 law students from nine 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.
Christopher Jafet joined Shutts’ Orlando office for the summer from Cornell Law School. Christopher is a member of the Latino American Law Students Association.
Christopher shares his thoughts on his summer experience at Shutts.
What is something new that you learned during the summer program?
I learned to manage multiple demanding tasks simultaneously and to communicate timelines for assignment completion in a professional manner. I also learned to concisely and effectively present information for partners' use, such as my research findings.
If you could go back to the first day of the summer program and give yourself a piece of advice, what would it be?
I would advise myself to maximize the opportunity by engaging with as many attorneys as possible and seeking assignments across various groups. This approach led me to discover my interest in working with the corporate team, a realization I might have missed had I only pursued work with the real estate team, as initially planned.
What advice would you give to someone about to start the OCI process?
Apply early and broadly. Firm hiring is moving faster than ever and applying late can be disadvantageous. During interviews, be authentic but ensure you are prepared with polished responses.