We caught up with rising 3L Nina Bundy to discuss her summer work experience. Read more about her experiences below.
Where are you currently working for your summer job and what is your position title?
I am a Summer Associate at Jackson Lewis P.C. in their DC Region Office.
What size firm are you working for and how do you like it?
I work for a mid-sized firm, and I love my experience! I love my experience because I am exposed to a broad range of practice areas and professional experiences in employment law. I also have received substantive work that will undoubtedly prepare me for my future legal career.
What makes working at a mid-sized firm different from possibly working at another firm that is smaller or larger?
A mid-sized firm perfectly balances ample resources and a small community. A mid-sized firm allows attorneys to foster meaningful relationships with their colleagues while taking advantage of the substantial resources and opportunities the firm has to offer.
Can you tell me more about how you know that Jackson Lewis was the right firm for you/what made them stand out to you?
The people at JL made them stand out. The firm culture is supportive, authentic, and empowering. The people at JL genuinely care about seeing their attorneys succeed, and they support each other in their endeavors. Many of the JL attorneys I met have worked at this firm for 20 to 30 years. It is common for people to land at JL and stay here.
Can you expand on the workplace culture of Jackson Lewis? What about the firm's culture makes it special to you?
The advice I have received about the workplace culture of the JL DC Region Office is that the attorneys take their work very seriously, but they don't take themselves too seriously, and it's true! In other words, the attorneys deliver exceptional work and advice to clients but also create a relaxed and comfortable environment for people to be themselves. The firm culture is special for me because I feel comfortable being myself. The people in my office are genuine and do everything they can to support me in my pursuit of becoming the best attorney I can be.
What are your responsibilities?
I primarily conduct legal research, draft memorandums, attend various observations, participate in Jackson Lewis training activities and network with associates and principals.
For example, I conducted legal research on Title VII and trade secret claims, drafted a memorandum on the DC Universal Paid Lead Program, drafted a position statement, attended an arbitration, drafted a request for information, participated in a client call and witness interview, attended an arbitration, drafted a settlement agreement, reviewed discovery interrogatories and documents, and will soon witness a mediation and deposition.
Additionally, I have participated in firm events such as a friendly corn hole competition, a litigation meeting, and an attorney/paralegal lunch.
What has been your favorite project that you have worked on so far?
So far, one of my favorite projects has been contributing to an article published on the Jackson Lewis website. The article discusses employee obligations under the District of Columbia's amended wage transparency laws, and I worked on the article with Principal Matt Nieman and attorney Mary Mullen.
Another one of my favorite experiences was attending lunch with Principal Teresa Wright, attorney Christian Yingling, and John Remy at a Peruvian restaurant called Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar.
What was the process of applying and interviewing for this position?
After researching various firms and networking with people I knew, I was encouraged to apply to Jackson Lewis. I received an interview and had an opportunity to meet key principals at the firm. I really enjoyed my interview because I felt this firm would be a great fit, and luckily, they thought so well.
What is one of the greatest lessons or experiences you have encountered so far that you think will make you a better law student and future attorney?
One of the greatest lessons I have encountered that will make me a better law student and future attorney is to ask questions about anything I do not understand and communicate with others. Communication is key because attorneys constantly communicate with colleagues, clients, and other professionals. The two greatest qualities any lawyer can have are (1) intellectual horsepower and (2) client service. So, as a law student and future attorney, it is essential to ask questions and communicate with others to become a master of the law and to deliver exceptional client service.