It’s hard to believe this summer program has come to an end. These final two weeks were some of the busiest, but also the most rewarding.
Week nine was all about getting ready for mock trial through workshops and organized practices.
On Monday, we had a Direct and Cross-examination Workshop with Miami partners Scott Sarason and Suzanne Singer. Their practical advice and insight into the real directs and crosses presented using the same case file we had was invaluable! On Tuesday we had our Evidence Workshop, and associate Reggie Guillaume walked us through the ins and outs of admitting exhibits and laying proper foundations. It was a great final workshop before our mock trial.
Wednesday was the attorney luncheon–and Sam and my time to shine. After losing a game of rock paper scissors against Sam, I went first and presented on summary judgment cases that had been overturned. It was nerve-wracking to present in front of so many brilliant minds at the Orlando office. But as I got into it, I realized I really knew these cases so I had nothing to worry about.
On Thursday, Sam and I went on an inspection at an airport with partner Jennifer Thomas and associate Mary Hudson. It was a nice change of pace to get out in the field. Over lunch, Jennifer and Mary shared law school stories and insight into their practice areas. The attorneys have been so generous this summer and given Sam and me a wealth of unforgettable wisdom.
Monday of Week 10 was the mock trial we’ve all been waiting for. After all the prep, everything finally came together. I am so proud of the way Serena and I worked as a team and how incredible our witnesses handled themselves. Everyone did an amazing job and it was so cool to hear everyone’s themes and theories of the case. Personally, I felt more confident than I expected. I’ve told a few attorneys by now that while giving my closing argument I had a moment where I realized that I was actually doing it, delivering the closing I had practiced for hours, and it was coming out with an ease I never expected. After experiencing the adrenaline of the courtroom, from arguing motions and objections to changing direct and cross questions mid-examination because the witness has given an unexpected answer to adding new information to your closing because of opposing counsel’s surprise theory, I know for certain that I want to be a trial lawyer.
After the mock trial, we returned to home base at the Orlando office where attorneys and staff were waiting with a spread of appetizers and drinks for a celebratory happy hour. The winners of the mock trial and the writing competition were announced, and though I wasn’t one of them, I still get to take home a beautiful crystal gavel and stand with an engraving of my name. This thoughtful gift for each summer associate is just one example of Rumberger’s appreciation and how genuinely welcomed I’ve felt throughout the summer.
Now, the rest of my last week I’ll be wrapping up assignments and packing up my office, including my orchid, which miraculously is still alive (if you’ve been reading Sam’s blog, you know the lore).
This summer has been a challenge, but a meaningful one. I’m grateful for everyone at Rumberger who contributed to the summer program, especially my mentor Hannah Steele, who was truly always available to offer any advice and support I needed. I am also so happy I had the opportunity to work with Sam this summer, a true highlight of the program.
From writing briefs to delivering a closing in front of seasoned litigators, I’ve been pushed, supported, and inspired every step of the way.
Reflecting on where I was ten weeks ago, I have learned so much more than I thought I would. My writing and research skills have certainly improved, but perhaps most importantly, I’ve become a better advocate. And now I know for certain that this is the area of law where I want to practice.
Now, headed back to FSU Law, I’ll carry everything I’ve learned with me into my final year of law school and beyond.
