MIAMI, FL- October 14, 2025 – At Bast Amron, we believe our Summer Associate Program is more than just a seasonal opportunity. It’s the beginning of meaningful careers and lasting connections. Each summer, our associates are immersed in substantive work, mentorship, and collaboration that provide a true sense of what it means to practice law at our firm.
In this series, we’re excited to share reflections from our former summer associates who are now part of the Bast Amron team. Today, we spotlight Associate Attorney Katie Tonkinson.
What’s something new you learned during your summer with us that you didn’t expect?
I was excited to learn how important teamwork is to the practice of law. While law school often emphasizes independent study, I worked throughout the summer in a variety of teams. In team meetings, I saw firsthand how lawyers collaborate and discuss case strategy, and in one-on-one projects I received valuable feedback on my work—strengthening both my legal writing and research skills.
What part of the experience stood out most to you, whether in the courtroom with clients or in your day-to-day work?
I was most impressed by the substantive nature of the projects I was assigned. Although I frequently heard that summer clerks were often given “busy work” at law firms, Bast Amron immediately trusted me with assignments that had a genuine impact on real cases. Documents I located were used as exhibits in depositions I attended, and my legal research assisted attorneys in preparing for hearings and formed the basis for motions and other pleadings.
What advice would you give to future summer associates coming into the program?
Do not be afraid to ask questions. Whether you have questions about the law you are researching or about legal practice in general, at Bast Amron partners and associates alike care about your development as a professional. They are more than willing to guide you and help grow your skillset.
At Bast Amron, we are proud of our Summer Associate Program and the many talented attorneys it has helped shape. Katie’s journey serves as a reminder of the value of meaningful mentorship and substantive opportunities in developing the next generation of legal professionals.