Our 2025 Summer Associate Program brought 11 law students from nine 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.
Ana Belen Rodriguez Sanchez joined Shutts’ Miami office for the summer from Penn State Dickinson Law. Ana is a member of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and the International Law Society (ILS).
Ana shares her thoughts on her summer experience at Shutts.
Why did you choose to spend your 2025 Summer with Shutts?
I chose to spend my 2025 Summer with Shutts because it was an amazing fit for my professional development and growth. As an out-of-state student planning to practice in Florida, I was drawn to Shutts’ deep roots in the state and its strong presence across the different markets. Shutts & Bowen offers law students the opportunity to work with various practice groups during the summer without being specifically assigned to one; this kind of exposure has been incredibly valuable to me as I am interested in exploring different areas of law while receiving meaningful mentorship and insight from the partners and associates.
What were the three most memorable experiences throughout your time here?
My three most memorable experiences throughout my time at the firm were 1) the orientation/reception prepared for the summer associates – an experience that was both sophisticated, and personal; 2) my participation in a few depositions led by Ms. Aliette Rodz – my first time listening to depositions and experiencing a piece of the litigation process; and lastly, 3) the visit to the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and dinner – a very enlightening and refreshing experience with the summer associates and the team.
What advice would you give to someone about to start the OCI process?
For someone starting the OCI process, I would advise them to select those firms that truly mirror that student’s interests and goals, either professionally, personally or geographically. I believe that a student who is sincerely interested in the firms they are applying or interviewing for, has better chances of getting the position, and of being in a firm that will align with the student’s plans/ideas. I would also recommend to research these law firms before applying to them in order to get a better understanding of the firm’s size, locations, mission, practice areas, and other information that may be valuable in the decision.