Willie Crawford III, ’27, spent his summer in New York City working in the law firm Simpson Thacher & Bartlett. In this role, he had the opportunity to work on an M&A deal centering on a novel transaction and I work alongside the new Capital Structure Solutions practice on liability management exercises (LMEs).
How did you connect with this summer opportunity?
I applied directly on the firm website, but I also went to many of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett’s on campus/in Chicago networking events where I was encouraged to apply by UChicago Law alum and also by a firm partner who had also done Teach for America. As a first-gen student, I found their help extremely valuable and was glad to have people in my corner!
How does your experience connect with what you currently envision doing with your law degree?
From what I’ve been exposed to so far, it seems like law (and Simpson Thacher & Barlett, specifically) are taking AI as a reason to really become a one-stop shop. I have been able to work with partners who are doing things that you’d typically expect from a financial advisor or consultant. This sort of jack of all trades is the exact reason why I came to law school: to be able to build a toolkit of skills that, when utilized, can create solutions that didn’t exist before.
At a Mets game
Please describe a “typical” day at work.
As a summer associate in Big Law, the day is truly what you make it. My days generally start with grabbing breakfast with other summer associates, working on any outstanding assignments, connecting with associates or partners over lunch, attending luncheons hosted by practice groups, and ending the day with a summer event.
What is something you learned or experienced that was surprising or particularly compelling during this summer position?
The most important skill you can have early on is to be curious AND raise your hand.
What are a couple of your key takeaways from the experience so far?
Your experience is what you decide to make of it. And, nobody wants to always talk about the job, so be interesting.
What advice would you offer another law student contemplating working in a similar position next summer?
Most of these firms do very similar things. Pick the place where you feel the people will get you through those 3:00 am nights (this includes the people you see going there and the people you interact with at networking events).
How are you spending your free time this summer?
Exploring the city and catching up with friends I don’t get to see frequently.
What are you most looking forward to in returning to UChicago Law this fall?
I’m most looking forward to staying involved in changing this weird idea that UChicago Law isn’t a fun place!