Our 2026 Summer Associate Program brought eight law students 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. Near the end of the program, the students shared a few highlights from their summer at Shutts.
Connor Goodman joined Shutts’ Miami office for the summer from Florida International University College of Law, where he is a member of the FIU Law Review and FIU Moot Court Team. He also interned with the Honorable Beth Bloom of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
Connor shares his thoughts on his summer experience at Shutts.
What were the three most memorable experiences throughout your time here?
A memorable experience was attending the Attorney Retreat in Orlando. It was an amazing weekend that allowed me to connect with attorneys across the firm’s offices. I was able to further connect with attorneys I had previously worked with, as well as meet many new attorneys. Ultimately, it was an amazing weekend and a highlight of my summer.
A second memorable experience was participating in the Feeding South Florida community service event. This was a great experience that I shared with the other Summer Associates. We had an amazing time while also giving back to our local community.
A third memorable experience was attending litigation skills workshops throughout the summer. Shutts held four litigation skills workshops, led by Bernie Pastor and Aliette Rodz, in which we were given an inside look at how to conduct a trial. We learned about opening and closing statements, direct and cross-examinations, and how to introduce exhibits. These workshops ultimately culminated in a Mock Trial during our final week. Through these workshops, I felt extremely confident and prepared.
What is something new that you learned during the summer program?
I learned how to manage multiple tasks while effectively communicating timelines. I constantly had multiple assignments that overlapped with each other, and sometimes, those assignments were for multiple different practice groups. I learned how to manage the workload I was given while also communicating with those attorneys about timelines and expectations.
If you could go back to the first day of the summer program and give yourself a piece of advice, what would it be?
A piece of advice would be to experience as much as possible. The Summer Program at Shutts is such a unique and incredible opportunity to do so much in such a short amount of time. Speaking with attorneys from different practice groups, attending all the Summer Associate events, and collaborating with the other Summer Associates were what made this experience so memorable, and I would highly recommend the same to anyone starting the process.
About Shutts & Bowen LLP
Shutts & Bowen LLP, established in 1910, is a full-service business law firm with approximately 280 lawyers in offices in Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando, Sarasota, Tallahassee, Tampa and West Palm Beach. Learn more about Shutts & Bowen at www.shutts.com.