|
|
| Author |
Messages |
|
CX3
 |
| 07/08/2008 12:24 AM |
 Quote
 Reply
|
Hi there,
I'm in my mid-twenties and a university graduate from one of BC's more well-known universities. I am now currently enrolled for my first year at Capilano University (a much smaller institution, not my alma mater)'s Institute of Paralegal Studies. I noticed that a considerable number of members seem to be from the California region in the US. Are there any Canadian westcoast paralegals on this forum?
I am concerned about many things, most of which regards my matching with a decent firm at the end of this academic journey. It is the usual worries and anxieties about finding a job, wondering if I will get along with my office-mates, the attorneys. I suppose this post is not so much about finding a specific solution to any one question. I am only wondering if there were other youngsters in their mid-twenties studying, have studied and are just starting (either paralegal schooling or work in the industry).
What are your experiences so far?
I have noticed hints here and there that at some times it is heavily clerical-work-focussed and less law-oriented. Some job descriptions I have read have said "true paralegal position, not clerical or admin work". What does this mean about the industry in general? I am all eyes and ears and would be interested in anyone sharing their insights on this.
Additionally, as a young 'un and having had experience working in an office before (a very negative experience from the start), I am anxious about finding approachable and experienced paralegals, other support staff and attorneys who are open and supportive. Capilano's program requires a 6 month internship, therefore helping the student break into the workforce and giving them a kickstart. Regardless, because of my experiences which were quite extreme, I am trying hard to be positive. I wonder if anyone has tips about working first years and random suggestions, even lighthearted or funny jokes and stories. I'm also curious - are there mentorships between more experienced and less experienced paralegals (wherever you are/state/country)?
I'm sure I will discover many things in my journey, both academic and working in the months and years to come. I have already learned a bit from reading some of your posts and threads over the past few weeks, here and there. Thanks so much!
|
|
|
|
|
Parapro *
|
| 09/18/2008 09:18 PM |
Quote
Reply
|
Hi there. I just stumbled on your post and had to reply as I'm a senior corporate paralegal in Vancouver and am a grad of the Capilano program myself (albeit the part-time program).
It sounds like you're nervous about getting out into the office environment, but I think you'll be just fine. Just seeing the way you write makes me think you're very intelligent and detail-oriented. You didn't say what type of law you'd be interested in - the different areas of law of course have different responsibilities. As a new paralegal, you'd likely start with more of the junior admin type work, but if you work hard and prove yourself, the lawyers will probably notice your skills quickly and give you more responsibility. Good, smart, hard-working employees are hard to come by these days.
As for your worries about the aspects of the law firm itself, that will depend on the firm for which you choose to work. I, myself, prefer mid-size law firms. The staff is more cohesive and you get a lot of responsibility. Larger law firms have more politics and smaller cliques are formed, I find. Really small firms sometimes use paralegals as combination workers (ie some reception, accounting, secretarial, paralegal work all mixed together). Every office will be different - there will be some people you really get along with and some you don't.
I will warn you, however, that a paralegal's job is mostly document preparation. I don't know a lot of paralegals, especially juniors, doing tons of research and substantive law work. The articled students and associates generally do this. Capilano College is great for teaching substantive law so that we understand the legal background, but honestly I have rarely had to use it. That said, I'm in the corporate/tax field which I didn't study at Capilano and just learned on the job.
In any event, your practicum will be very helpful in giving you a hint of what is to come. Good luck! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Quick Reply |
 |
|
|
|
ActiveForums 3.7
|
|
|
Latest Posts
|
 |
|
|
|
| |