With a background in entrepreneurship, Samer Salman, ’25, was eager to take on his work as a student attorney in the Weibling Entrepreneurship Clinic. Read on for his insights on how he gained a greater understanding of the practical side of transactional law.
Describe your experience working in the clinics over the summer.
My experience at the E-Clinic helped me understand what is it like to be an attorney, manage clients, and learn more about the administrative side of working in a law firm. I enjoyed the broad scope of work that went beyond the limited role of working as an intern or a law clerk.
What does your day-to-day work entail?
My daily work included meeting with clients in person, having calls with clients, drafting company formation documents such as operating agreements, drafting service agreements, reviewing industry relevant statutes, or conduct a trademark research. At times, I would receive calls or emails from clients with different questions relating to their business formation or asking for an agreement review.
What are your major takeaways from your clinical work?
I really enjoyed the role of an attorney and building a professional work relationship with clients that solidified my career decisions and coming to law school. I gained valuable legal practice and teamwork skills from the clinical program and from Professor Stohs. I had the opportunity to give a presentation at the College of Business regarding business entities. I became more familiar with law firm client management systems such as time tracking, file management, and documentation. I was also able to expand my professional network through meeting other attorneys and business owners.
How have the clinical programs enhanced your law school experience?
The clinical program at the E-Clinic moved my learning experience from theoretical classroom study to practical law practice where I engaged directly with clients, produced legal documents, and advised on business matters.
What would your advice be to law students looking to get practical experience?
I highly recommend doing any of our college’s clinical programs, as it will allow you to step in an attorney’s role, and gain practical skills and experience from directly working with, and managing client matters.
