New Associates Learn the Ropes

They’re here!  Whether from a summer of studying or a year of clerking, members of the 2014 associate class gathered for a group photo signaling the end of orientation and the start of their Winston careers.

Last week, Winston’s newest associates assembled in Chicago for the annual firm-wide New Associate Orientation. The three-day onboarding event not only familiarized the group with Winston’s culture, but provided an opportunity to learn and establish relationships with new colleagues. During daily programming, associates found themselves dissecting case excerpts with legal writing guru Ross Guberman, discovering what it takes to be a GREAT attorney with corporate partner Greg Murray, and, new this year, learned about life as a first-year associate through an interactive panel of dedicated attorneys from the 2013 associate class. 

As day turned to night, and programming drew to a close, the fun ramped up as the firm’s Chief Attorney Development Officer, led the associates through a spirited game of “Commonalities.” Two teams were neck and neck as the game entered the “judgment” round. Here our finalists attempted to sway their colleagues in favor of upholding identified common traits (little did they know this was their first taste of advocacy training). After a lengthy discussion, and a few executive decisions, a winning group was declared! 

Although they’ve only just arrived, it’s obvious the new associates are bright, enthusiastic, and ready for the challenges of the legal profession. We’re excited to work with the 2014 class, and look forward to supporting their professional development.

The 2014 associate class poses for a quick photo with Professional Development’s Kurt Plocher (far left).