The Summer Program at Hinckley Allen is the perfect introduction to the practice of law. Over the course of the summer, I worked on assignments that were both challenging and rewarding and attended fun events in Boston, Providence, and Hartford with my fellow colleagues. My time as a summer associate showed me what a meaningful experience the summer program can be and the following three
components of Hinckley Allen’s summer program made all the difference!

1. Opportunities to Work on Substantive Matters. Hinckley Allen wastes no time in getting its summer associates involved. Within two weeks of starting, I attended a hearing with two partners, researched a pressing real estate matter, and participated in a potential witness interview. From day one, the assignments I received were meaningful and unbelievably interesting. Not only did I get to research a variety of legal issues, but I also drafted motions incorporating and arguing those same legal issues. Furthermore, after expressing an interest in litigation, I was able to assist in the preparation of an upcoming mock trial. This involved strategy meetings, client meetings, and creating material that would assist a mock jury in evaluating our client’s case. Hinckley Allen’s summer program gave me the opportunity to make real, substantive contributions to the firm’s cases and I could not have asked for a better experience.
2. Exposure to Different Areas of the Law . Like most law students, I had an idea of what area of the law I wanted to practice but I still wanted to explore other areas before making a final decision. Hinckley Allen gave me that opportunity. Throughout the program, I was able to work on matters that touched on various areas of the law, including real estate, corporate, labor and employment, and litigation. While I appreciated the work from the different practice groups, the exposure confirmed my desire to work in litigation. Moreover, working with the different practice groups allowed me to get to know more of the associates and partners in the firm. I can confidently say that by the end of the summer I had a deeper understanding of the firm’s culture and for the depth and breadth of what practicing the law at Hinckley Allen entails.
3. Exciting Events Outside of the Office. Let’s face it, the summer program embodies the idea of “work hard, play hard.” Because of Hinckley Allen, I attended my first Red Sox game, improved my culinary skills, and discovered my hidden talent for dart throwing. But more importantly, the summer events proved to be a great way to get to know the firm’s associates and partners in an informal setting. I quickly realized that the people at Hinckley Allen are not only talented, but also are friendly and wonderful inside and outside of the office.

For those aspiring legal professionals considering a Summer Program in the future, what are you looking to get out of the experience? Share your thoughts with Hinckley Allen on Twitter at @HinckleyAllen.