Written by: Naomi Martinez
The University of Iowa College of Law gives students opportunities to build practical legal experience before graduation. This summer, Tess Benson, a rising 3L, is interning at Chapman and Cutler, a legal firm in Chicago, Illinois, with six locations across the country that specialize in finance and investments.
Working alongside attorneys, Benson is analyzing legal issues, providing counsel to clients, and drafting legal memoranda.
Learn more about why Benson chose Iowa Law, how she secured her internship, and the lessons learned this summer in this Q&A.
Why did you choose Iowa Law?
I chose Iowa Law for its community and reputation for developing law students into meticulous attorneys. Since the beginning of 1L, I have felt extremely supported by both faculty and peers. I had the opportunity to deepen my connection with the Iowa Law community by getting involved on campus, including serving as Secretary of the Business & Corporate Law Society and other organizations such as First-Generation Lawyers, Organization of Women Lawyers and Law Students, and Intramural Volleyball.
How did you secure this opportunity?
I secured my position as a summer associate at Chapman and Cutler through a Chapman visit to campus. This was not technically an on-campus interview, but it was a similar process in the sense that I prepared a formal interview: I researched the firm, came ready with thoughtful questions, and followed up afterward. I also met with Melissa Norman in the Iowa Law's Career Services Office to make sure my resume and cover letter were up to par.
What are the skills you’ve learned so far from law school helping you most?
Iowa Law's emphasis on legal writing and careful analysis has helped the most; being able to spot an issue, apply a rule, and explain it clearly and concisely translates to practice whether you are doing litigation or transactional work. Since beginning the program at Iowa Law, I have also strengthened my overall attention to detail and comfort levels in internalizing and applying constructive feedback.
What surprised you most about this experience?
I was most surprised with how collaborative and teaching-oriented my experience at Chapman and Cutler has been. I expected a steeper learning curve, but the Chapman attorneys have been extremely approachable and generous about explaining context and giving thorough feedback. I was also surprised by how much impact clear communication and organization have—small things like confirming assumptions, meeting deadlines, and keeping work product clean have helped set me up for a successful summer.
What did you enjoy most about this experience?
I have enjoyed seeing how legal work translates into practical advice for clients and having the opportunity to contribute to that process. It has been very helpful to see how deals play out, and how deal structures differ among practice groups.
I also really enjoy the culture that Chapman has built through the years. The attorneys are busy, but extremely approachable and always willing to help. I have felt encouraged to ask questions and learn from all the attorneys I have spoken with, even if I am not working with them personally on an assignment. Further, I have really enjoyed collaborating with the other summer associates on assignments. There is no competition, and everyone is working toward the same goal.
What advice would you give students looking for summer opportunities?
Some advice I have for law students looking for summer opportunities is to treat every touchpoint like an interview, even if it is not a formal on-campus interview. Be prepared, know the firm, and have a clear story about what you’re looking for. At such an early stage in our careers, it is completely normal to not know where you will end up, but having an idea of what interests you and being able to articulate why you are interested is crucial. Use career services early, and don’t underestimate following up; a thoughtful thank-you and staying in touch goes a long way.