Over the summer, Andres Chinchilla a second-year student at the University of Miami School of Law, participated in the RumbergerKirk Summer Associate Program. Although this year’s event has concluded, Attorney at Law Magazine had the opportunity to speak with Chinchilla prior to his return to school.
AALM: What first attracted you to a career in law?
AC: When I was about seven years old my dad told me I should be a lawyer because of how much I argued. I decided in high school to test out his theory. I started a mock trial team, competed, and absolutely fell in love. I continued to compete in mock trial throughout high school, college, and now law school. My studies in law school have fostered my passion in oral and written advocacy.
AALM: What type of practice do you envision for yourself?
AC: It is difficult to say at this point, but generally I am confident that I will be a trial lawyer. Not sure in what practice area necessarily but I need to be in a courtroom on a weekly basis arguing and presenting evidence before a judge and/or jury.
AALM: Do you have any “heroes” you either admire or try to emulate?
AC: Everyone in my family is an inspiration to me but I have to say that my dad is a standout. He’s just always been the type of person to fight when his back is up against the wall, take risks, and work hard. As a result, he’s been able to do things for myself and my siblings that he wouldn’t have been able to imagine as a child. I am forever grateful for his efforts and continuously look to him as a source of inspiration.
AALM: One of the criteria for being selected for this summer program is the student’s interest, support and actions supporting diversity. Can you tell us a little about what you’ve done in this regard?
AC: As a student at Miami Law, I was a 1L Student Bar Association Senator, am an elected member of the Honor Council, Staff Editor for the Inter-American Law Review, Research Assistant for my Evidence Professor, Competitor on the Trial Team, and assist in coaching the Undergraduate Trial Team.
AALM: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
AC: Aside from hanging out with friends, I enjoy playing golf, training jiu jitsu, and exercising at the gym. I think physical wellness and mental health go hand-in-hand, especially when you spend the bulk of your day reading dense material.
