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.
Leila S. Oberschall joined Shutts’ Sarasota office for the summer. As a student at the Florida State University College of Law, Leila participates as a Staff Editor of the Law Review and a Notes Editor of the Business Review. Leila has also held leadership positions in the Federal Bar Association and the Tax Law Society, and is a member of the Law School Council, the Business Law Society, the Student Bar Society and the LitiGATORS.
Here is what Leila had to say about her summer at Shutts.
Why did you choose to join Shutts for the summer?
I learned about Shutts during the on-campus interview process at my school. Each of the attorneys I interviewed with were not only accomplished professionally, but also genuine and committed to their personal priorities. I knew the firm would be a great fit from the beginning.
What advice would you give to someone looking for a summer associate position on how to be successful?
My advice is to be eager to learn from everyone, be thorough when completing assignments, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are going to happen at this stage; it is important to learn from them.
What is something that you learned or a new skill that you gained during the summer program?
I worked on refining my research skills this summer. I focused on researching more efficiently and knowing how broad or narrow to define a search. I was also introduced to different contract forms and learned the basics of what each agreement should include.
Describe a typical day as a summer associate at Shutts.
I started each day as a summer associate by reviewing emails and reading news articles in the Daily Business Review. After that, every day was different. Most days, I would receive an email, a call, or an office visit with an assignment. I might be assigned to research a statute or revise an agreement. Other days, I might sit in on hearings, depositions, or client meetings. I was also able to go to lunch with attorneys and enjoy social events hosted by the firm and in the community.
About Shutts & Bowen LLP
Shutts & Bowen, established in 1910, is a full-service business law firm with approximately 270 lawyers in offices in Ft. Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando, Sarasota, Tallahassee, Tampa, and West Palm Beach. Learn more about Shutts & Bowen at www.shutts.com.