Last night, the rainy South Florida weather had the summer associates and I dreaming of brighter (and dryer) pastures. Like an episode from The Magic School Bus, the summer associates and the Corporate Practice Group took a quick field trip to the beautiful shores of Ireland. In mere seconds, thanks to Zoom, we arrived in Ireland fresh and without jet lag, eager to explore our new destination. Rest assured that we would not be alone to navigate on our own. Our tour guide, Mark McHale, had an encyclopedic knowledge of Irish history, customs, and culture, and yes—Guinness and local pubs too (cheers!).

Little did we know our journey would be filled with many surprises along the way. Our travels took us through the Dublin City Center, historic castles located on picturesque coastlines, and even through ancient cemeteries. Most surprising, however, was Marshall Pasternack’s fascinating stories about his time in Ireland. Marshall, a figure that rivals Dos Equis’ Most Interesting Man in the World, somehow became even more interesting as he detailed his appreciation for Redbreast Irish Whisky (12 year, of course), Irish golf courses, and the country’s scenic landscapes. Marshall made sure to highlight the generous and kind-hearted spirit of the Irish people which was exemplified by our tour guide, Mark.

As our journey concluded, we bid farewell and promised to return to Ireland next summer—this time in person! Bilzin Sumberg continues to find innovative ways to bring the summer associates and practice groups together in unusual times. On a side note, we are officially halfway through our summer program. At Bilzin Sumberg, time really does fly by when you are having fun. The summer associates and I feel lucky to be part of such a great program and are looking forward to the rest of the summer!