Part of what makes Sullivan such a unique place is our people, so we'd like to introduce you to some of them in a series of posts. We asked associates around the firm why they chose Sullivan and how their experiences have been since joining us.
Shu Wei is an associate in the Corporate Department of Sullivan's Boston office. She represents public and private companies, real estate investment trusts and financial institutions in corporate finance, joint ventures and equity and debt financings. She also represents companies in securities law compliance, disclosure and periodic reporting.
While attending Cornell Law School, Shu was an editor for the Cornell Journal of Law and Public Policy and served as a judicial extern for the Honorable Thomas E. Carlson of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of California.
Why did you choose Sullivan?
I chose Sullivan for the people at the firm and the opportunities the firm presents. I was looking for a place that not only cherishes individuality and helps young attorneys grow professionally and personally but also offers interesting, challenging work to its associates. I also wanted to stay at a firm for at least a few years to develop my legal skills and felt that the lifestyle Sullivan offers is more sustainable.Has your experience been what you expected?
Yes. In the first year program, I indicated a strong interest in the transactional work and received most of my work assignments from the Corporate and Real Estate Departments. I worked on various types of transactions early on in my career which set a good basis for understanding more complex, specific legal issues as I become more senior.
Did you consider another firm? If so, which one(s) and why?
I considered a few other firms but I was impressed by the fact that Sullivan really tries to get to know the summer associate candidates during the interview process, and I didn't feel that was the case at the other firms that I considered.
How was the first year program?
I enjoyed the first-year rotation and the variety of work opportunities it offers. The program also helps me get to know partners and associates from different departments, which is good for networking within the firm.
What makes Sullivan different from other firms?
I think that our size is really unique. I really like that we're not a small firm but also not too big. I also like that I work on some larger deals for well-known companies and that I get a lot of client and partner interaction. I think that Sullivan offers great mentorship, especially from senior associates. People at the firm are willing to make personal connections and try to help more junior attorneys.
What have you been working on lately?
I focus my practice on the real estate investment trusts industry and have had the opportunity to work on multiple mergers and initial public offerings in both U.S. and international contexts, including an initial public offering of a REIT in Singapore.
