Hamad Mirza is currently rounding out his time as a Summer Associate in Harness IP’s Troy Office, where he worked closely with attorneys over the past few months to learn about drafting patent applications and prosecuting them at the USPTO, conducting litigation research, investigating infringement allegations, and more. He is a 3L at Wayne State University Law School and expects to graduate in December. 

Mirza spoke with Sheila Pursglove at the Detroit Legal News earlier this summer about his decision to go to law school, his experience as a Summer Associate, and what he does to relax.

Detroit Legal News: What drew you to attend law school? 

It all started during my product design courses while earning my engineering degree. My team and I worked to develop new designs to solve a real-world user need. I especially enjoyed advocating for my team’s final product at the end of the year design competition. Combining my interest in product innovation and advocacy, I found the field of intellectual property law. IP law allows me to be at the forefront of innovative technologies and still use my advocacy skills to help others.

What have you enjoyed the most as a summer associate? 

Having the opportunity to learn directly from the partners across many different technology areas. Even with the work from home arrangement, each partner has been so willing to share their breadth of knowledge to help prepare me to be the best attorney. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in client and examiner meetings, draft patent applications, respond to office actions, conduct legal research for ongoing litigation, and even investigate potential trademark infringements.

What advice do you have for someone considering law school? 

It is never too early to network with attorneys and gain hands-on experience working in a law firm.

What do you do to relax? 

After a long day, the best way to relax is with a cup of tea and catching up on “Shark Tank.”

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