Reflections from a summer student at Simpson, Thomas & Associates

I was fortunate enough to come back to Simpson, Thomas & Associates (ST&A) for my second time around but this time as a Summer Law Student. I first joined ST&A six years ago, I was fresh out of high school and extremely excited for this “grown up” job in a law firm – a place that lined up with my passion to become a lawyer someday.

Now, six years later walking back to ST&A as a law student felt like coming back from a vacation: it was nice to be away, but even nicer to be back. I was welcomed back by familiar faces and greeted by new ones. I wanted to come back to ST&A not only because of the familiarity, but because this time, I knew I had more to offer. Last time, ST&A provided me with a strong foundation on how to maneuver in a law firm and present myself as a professional. This time, I came back with much more knowledge about not only how to do all of that, but also a legal background.  I was able to give back much more to ST&A because of everything I learned during my time here in the past.

I was a part of a team – a place where I was treated like an equal, and appreciated for my talents and capabilities. My role included legal administrative tasks such as document requests, creating lists of specials, and general trial prep. I was also given the opportunity to observe a mediation, a discovery and attend chambers. These opportunities gave me a real life glimpse into what my future as a lawyer would look like. I took every opportunity to have conversations about different career paths with various lawyers at ST&A and they were generous with their time and offering me advice.

My top takeaway from working here, among gaining experience and learning valuable lessons, is how ST&A has never made me afraid of choosing what can seem like a daunting career path. The firm is full of individuals who are available to provide support regardless of whether you’re a legal assistant or a lawyer and it is this feeling of ‘family’ that I am taking away with me.

The firm is friendly, approachable, professional and definitely a great place to work!  If given the opportunity to come back to ST&A, I wouldn’t hesitate for a second – it’s always felt like home.