Our 2026 Summer Associate Program brought 8 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. Nearing the end of the program, the students agreed to share a few highlights from their summer at Shutts.
Jenna Kaplan joined Shutts’ Miami office for the summer from the University of Miami School of Law. She previously interned for the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, co-founded the University of Miami’s AI and Law Society, and serves as Secretary of Competitions and Internal Affairs for the Yvette Ostolaza Mock Trial Team.
Jenna shares her thoughts on her summer experience at Shutts.
Why did you choose to spend your 2026 Summer with Shutts?
Beyond Shutts’ excellent reputation, I chose Shutts because of the people. Every person I met was incredibly welcoming, engaging, and genuine. Throughout my interview process, the conversations felt natural and I could tell Shutts valued not only excellent work, but also creating an environment where people genuinely enjoy working together. I left my interview feeling excited about the opportunity and confident that it was a place where I would fit in both personally and professionally.
What is something new that you learned during the summer program?
This summer taught me that the people you work with can make all the difference. I learned that work can be both intellectually challenging and genuinely enjoyable when you’re surrounded by supportive colleagues who enjoy what they do and are invested in helping one another succeed.
What advice would you give to someone about starting the interview process?
Be yourself. The interview process is just as much about finding the right fit for you as it is for the firm. I found that being my authentic self allowed me to genuinely connect with the people I met throughout the interview process. Instead of trying to fit what I thought a candidate “should” be, I focused on having real conversations and letting my personality shine.