The summer program has been filled with professional development courses through PowerSummer, jigsaw puzzles, coffee breaks with attorneys, negotiation sessions, attorney spotlights, and so much more! As we wrapped up our last week of the summer associate program, we were tasked with closing the deal for the Mock Real Estate Transaction, keeping a secret for a surprised client spotlight, and bringing the heat in the kitchen. 

For the final social event, the litigation department at Bilzin Sumberg joined the summer associates for a virtual culinary class made possible by an Airbnb Online Experience. Natalia Luna and Jazz hosted the Authentic Mexican Salsa course and left us with a taste of their music and city before the night ended. As I shuffled around the kitchen preparing three different salsas, Melissa Pallett-Vasquez served as the narrator for the evening and encouraged all of us to spice up our dishes. Although we were in separate kitchens, all of our salsas looked mouthwatering, and the culinary class created an unforgettable experience.

For the last event of the summer associate program, summer associates were shipped Laurent-Perrier Champagne to celebrate our hard work and determination throughout the four-week program. Partner and Practice Group Leader, Jay Sakalo, led the Summer Associate Farewell Toast with a congratulatory message to the summer associates for finishing the program and endless gratitude towards Jessica Buchsbaum and Betsi Cobas for creating a phenomenal virtual program. Although the countless Zoom meetings have come to an end, we have gained invaluable connections and experiences this summer that will last beyond the program. 

Farewell until next summer.