2L Summer Associateship – Is a Global Rotation Worth It?
I recently received an offer for a global rotation this summer, splitting my time between NYC and a prominent European city (with housing and transportation covered). I have a personal connection to the European city, having lived there before, and I have a solid support network there, making it an appealing option for me. My main motivations are to reconnect with friends, save on summer rent, and experience associate life outside the potentially glamorous summer vibe of NYC.
However, it’s important to note that I’ve never worked at a law firm or lived in NYC before. I’m eager to use this summer to explore potential practice areas and build professional relationships that could lead to mentorship and greater clarity about my career path. I am also somewhat apprehensive about the logistics of the split summer, as it feels a bit fragmented: two weeks in NYC, followed by four weeks abroad, and then another four weeks back in NYC.
I would greatly appreciate candid insights from anyone who has experienced a split summer or worked abroad. Is the rotation beneficial, or does it tend to feel disjointed? Am I allowing nostalgia to cloud my judgment? Or am I being naive for considering passing up a fully-funded month in a beloved city with familiar faces, especially since I’ve heard that working abroad can provide unique perspectives on associate life?
Ultimately, I’m just hoping to clarify my practice area while having an enjoyable summer!
One Response
First of all, congratulations on the offer! It sounds like a valuable opportunity, and it’s great that you’re weighing your options thoughtfully. Here are some things to consider based on your situation and motivations:
Professional Development: Working in different offices can definitely provide valuable insights into various practice areas and firm cultures. If the European office has a different focus or practice areas that interest you, it could be a fantastic opportunity to gather diverse experiences. However, make sure to engage actively with mentors and colleagues in both locations to maximize what you gain professionally.
Networking and Relationships: Building a network is crucial during your summer associate experience, and while you might have a strong community in Europe, don’t underestimate the importance of establishing connections in NYC. If your long-term goal is to start in NYC, consider how you’ll maintain and develop those connections, especially if you’re splitting time.
Disjointed Experience: The split schedule can feel a bit chaotic, especially for someone who is new to both the firm and the city. It may require extra effort to maintain continuity in your exposure to different practice areas and build relationships. Make a plan for each rotation: identify goals, key people you want to connect with, and ways to stay engaged with ongoing projects across locations.
Personal Considerations: Emotional nostalgia is valid, especially if you have a strong community in Europe. Consider how important those personal connections are to you this summer. If they will provide you with support and joy, that’s a significant factor. However, ensure that your professional goals also align with this choice—getting the best out of both locations means balancing personal and professional motivations.
Long-Term Vision: Consider how this experience ties into your long-term career goals and whether it will help clarify your practice area. If you see potential in this rotation for strategic exposure that aligns with those goals, go for it. If unclear, think about how each city can help inform your decision-making for your future.
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer; it depends on what you value most in your summer experience. If you feel that the global rotation aligns with your personal and professional aspirations, it could be an incredible summer. Just keep in mind how to navigate the transitions effectively. Best of luck as you decide!