Law360 Publishes Article by Zeynep Ersin on AI Training for Law Firm Summer Associate Programs

Law360 featured an article by Seyfarth's Chief Innovation and Strategic Design officer Zeynep Ersin, “7 AI Training Tips For Law Firm Summer Associate Programs.” The piece, published on May 19, 2026, examines how law firms can design summer associate programs that build durable judgment and problem‑solving skills alongside responsible artificial intelligence use.

The article emphasizes that effective AI training is less about mastering specific tools and more about cultivating a mindset that will remain relevant as technology evolves. Ersin outlines seven practical guideposts—from embedding ethics and governance to teaching AI through real legal workflows—that help firms create scalable, future‑ready programs for junior talent.

As Ersin explains:

“Artificial intelligence training for summer associates isn’t really about AI: It’s about teaching a way of thinking that will still be relevant when the tools change — which they will and already have.”

She also underscores the importance of judgment and human oversight, noting:

If a summer associate leaves training thinking 'AI is a shortcut,' or 'AI is going to replace me,' you've missed the mark. If they leave thinking 'AI is one, of many, supplemental tools in a broader problem-solving tool kit, and I'm responsible for judgment, verification and outcomes,' then you've taught a professional skill set that will scale with their career."

The full article is available here.