What a Paralegal at a Law Firm Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Legal Industry
Stephanie, a paralegal, emphasizes that the legal field is a journey of continuous learning, stating, "you don't really learn a lot of what the law really is until you're working in the industry." Success requires embracing the learning process, perseverance despite imposter syndrome, and the understanding that even experienced professionals "mess up sometimes."
Career Development, Overcoming Challenges, Industry Realities, Workplace Challenges, Resilience
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Stephanie Henriquez
Paralegal
Legal Services Company
UCLA: 2018
N/A
History, Art History
Law
Legal
Scholarship Recipient, Pell Grant Recipient, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. It takes time to learn the intricacies of law and the paralegal field; on-the-job experience is crucial.
2. The paralegal certification program provides a foundation, but practical experience is essential for a comprehensive understanding.
3. Imposter syndrome is common; it's important to remain curious, persistent, and true to yourself, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and continuously learns in this field.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
It takes time. When I was an undergrad, I didn't have a lot of the information I wished I'd known sooner in my undergraduate career to apply.
I think I got my paralegal certificate after I graduated. Once I was in the field and in the trenches, you really learn that when it comes to law, you don't really learn what the law truly is until you're working in the industry.
The courses I took for my paralegal certification were very informative. I was familiar with a lot of the terminology, but once you're in there, you really just learn as you go.
You're not going to know everything, so experiences vary. There are different energies and kinds of people you'll meet within the field. Regardless, it's important to remain true to yourself, stay curious, and never give up.
I think a lot of the time, people have instilled fear and imposter syndrome can kick in. It's a matter of knowing that it's a process. Everybody, even the most amazing attorneys or paralegals, get nervous or mess up sometimes.
I think just knowing that is something within the field is that you're always going to keep learning and growing.