As the 2025 Bilzin Sumberg Summer Associate Program comes to a close, it’s a great time to share some practical advice for next year’s class. The summer flies by quickly, and knowing a few key tips can make all the difference in making the most of your experience. Here’s a guide based on what the 2025 Summer Associate Class has learned:
Be Proactive: The summer goes by quickly, so take initiative from day one. If you’re interested in a particular practice area, reach out to partners or associates and ask for assignments or shadowing opportunities. Don’t hesitate to email someone for coffee or lunch to learn about their path at Bilzin Sumberg. If there are specific projects or client events you want to be part of, express your interest early. Being proactive ensures you get the exposure and experience you’re looking for.
Ask Questions Early and Check In: When you receive an assignment, set up a meeting or call with the assigning attorney. Review the task in advance so you can ask clarifying questions up front. If new questions come up as you work, pause and check in rather than spinning your wheels. In my experience, attorneys appreciate when you seek clarity early, and it helps you deliver your best work.
Be Social: Bilzin Sumberg’s collaborative culture is one of its strengths. Take advantage of social events to connect with attorneys across practice groups, but also make time for informal conversations during lunch or coffee breaks. You’ll discover shared interests and may even land a unique assignment from a casual chat. Don’t limit your interactions to the office—our class bonded over Tuesday Trivia Nights at Taurus in the Grove, weekly Brickell happy hours, and even impromptu outings with associates from different departments.
Build a Relationship with your Mentor: Every summer associate is paired with a mentor—make the most of this resource. Mentors are there to guide you, whether you have questions about assignments, want introductions to attorneys in your area of interest, or even advice on what to wear to the firm’s dinner party. Special shout out to my mentor, Hannah Lidicker, for answering all these questions and more throughout my time here.
Use the 24th Floor Coffee Machine: Don’t miss out on the legendary coffee machine in the attorney lounge on the 24th floor. Take a break, make yourself a latte, and say hello to Adrian Felix and Ken Duvall, who have offices nearby (even though neither drinks coffee). It’s a great spot to meet people and take a breather.
The summer associate program is what you make of it. Be curious, engaged, and open to new experiences. You’ll learn a lot and have fun along the way. Good luck!
