Hi Lauren!
We are two weeks into our virtual program at A&P. I agree with everything Emily said.
We have been using Zoom for our programming and are finding it easy to use and haven't had any major issues with it so far (pre-assigning breakout rooms can be problematic but you can easily move people once a meeting starts). We often utilize the breakout rooms so summer associates can connect with attorneys in a smaller group setting. The polling function is good for icebreakers or engaging with the speaker and summer associates seem comfortable using the chat function to ask questions.
Zoom is exhausting so breaks are very important. We encourage the summers to have their video on as much as possible but to take breaks to stretch their legs or grab a drink.
We're utilizing ice breakers and Zoom backgrounds so the class can get to know each other and have some fun (for example, during a weekly meeting with the class, we asked them to change their background to their favorite food).
It's definitely a different summer than anyone expected but we are finding that it can still be meaningful, interesting, and fun. Good luck!
Amanda Leslie
