MIAMI, FL – November 13, 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 Thomas Santi.
What’s something new you learned during your summer with us that you didn’t expect?
Although I expected the practice of law to be starkly different from what I grew accustomed to in law school, my experience as a law clerk highlighted the reality of just how significant that difference actually is. My experience with Bast Amron emphasized to me just how much more there is to zealous advocacy beyond merely preparing the best legal arguments in favor of your client. It means undergoing a careful cost-benefit analysis of each course of action, effectively communicating the benefits and pitfalls of each one with the client, and ultimately providing them with the tools and agency to make the decision that they feel is right for them.
What part of the experience stood out most to you whether in the courtroom with clients or in your day-to-day work?
The most pleasant surprise which stood out to me was just how welcoming Bast Amron was. Beginning my transition from legal studies to legal practice felt daunting. I heard countless horror stories about just how unforgiving the practice of law particularly the law office environment, can be. Yet I was met with open arms and careful attention to my development not only as a future attorney but as a professional overall.
What advice would you give to future summer associates coming into the program?
Communicate, communicate, communicate. If you feel like you have not been given enough guidance on an assignment, communicate it to the person who assigned it to you. Always ask what they are expecting from your work and welcome feedback relentlessly. Every new task is a golden opportunity to develop yourself and improve your craft, but it will always be up to you to capitalize on it.
At Bast Amron, we are proud of our Summer Associate Program and the many talented attorneys it has helped shape. Thomas’s journey serves as a reminder of the value of meaningful mentorship and substantive opportunities in developing the next generation of legal professionals.