Our 2023 Summer Associate Program brought 14 law students from eight 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.
Jack Whelan, a Jacksonville office Summer Associate, joined Shutts from the Stetson University College of Law. Jack is an Associate Member of the Stetson Law Review, a member of the Trial Team and Finance Chair of the SBA.
Below, Jack shares what his summer at Shutts was like.
Why did you choose to join Shutts for the summer?
I was initially interested in Shutts because of its great reputation. And after meeting the Jacksonville office in the interview process, I knew it was a good fit.
What advice would you give to someone looking for a summer associate position on how to be successful?
I would advise an incoming summer associate to work hard, keep an open mind, and spend time building relationships. Whether it’s knocking on an associate’s door for a question or asking a partner to grab lunch, everyone is willing to help and its easy to get to know the people around you.
What is something that you learned or a new skill that you gained during the summer program?
I can confidently say that I improved my research and legal writing skills. As the summer progressed, I was able to incorporate prior feedback into new work.
Describe a typical day as a summer associate at Shutts.
I would usually start each day by checking my email, talking to my mentor, and working on a long-term project. Throughout the day, attorneys in the office would send out additional work, which always kept me busy. Once I finished my work for the day, I would usually give my mentor an update of my progress.