Melissa Ehert - March 2013

Post date: Mar 9, 2015 10:20:38 PM

When did you graduate from the COD Paralegal Studies program?

I graduated in December 2012.

Where are you currently working?

I am a paralegal at the Roth Law Firm in Naperville.

How did you choose that area of practice?

One of my goals when I enrolled in the Paralegal Program was to work in litigation. Over the years, I enjoyed litigation “war stories” in my undergraduate law courses and from family members who are attorneys. My internship offered a fascinating insight into the world of personal injury law. It reinforced my interest in litigation, and prepared me well for my exciting new job. Now, I am fortunate to work at a firm that engages in vigorous and results-driven litigation.

What was the most important lesson you learned from the COD Paralegal Studies program?

I learned to take advantage of every opportunity the Program offers. From interviewing instruction and networking, to Paralegal Club speakers, the Program provides so many ways to become engaged in the legal profession. I also learned that the DuPage County legal community is exceptionally tight-knit. It is crucial to always maintain good relations, whether you are in an advantageous or adversarial situation.

Who did you find to be the most influential person/faculty in the program?

Sally Fairbank and her Practicum are the keystone of the Program. The Practicum and Internship tie together every piece of instruction you’ll receive. With each year, Sally works to bring more recognition and achievement to the Program.

What class did you enjoy the most?

There were so many great courses! I had not been a student for many years, and Suzi Horn instantly made everyone feel at ease in Intro. Sally Fairbank’s Practicum program helped me define myself as a student and as a professional. It was a true springboard back into the workforce. I was exceptionally lucky to have Annie Knight, one of our amazing instructors, as my Internship Site Advisor. Linda Jenkins’ Advanced Legal Writing and Research had a small number of students when I took the course. As a result, I sharpened my writing skills in this cohesive and encouraging environment. Damon Fisch offered real-world advice about the tightrope of legal ethics. He also offered the chance to earn extra credit by having us write an essay on ethical violations committed by the cast of Blazing Saddles. Enjoyable? Oh, yeah!

What class did you find to be the most practical?

Capper Grant’s courses in Civil Litigation, Personal Injury/Torts, Linda Jenkins’s Advanced Legal Writing, and Bob Beck’s Estate Planning/Probate have been invaluable. I use knowledge acquired from these courses on a daily basis.

What advice would you give to a current paralegal student?

Save your notebooks. You will absolutely use them for reference in your paralegal work. Don’t lose your copy of ALWD. It will be your go-to reference tool. Take advantage of every opportunity. Get to know your instructors and fellow students. They have a wealth of great information to share. Tell everyone you know that you are going to be a paralegal. Get a LinkedIn account and grow your contact list. Attend Paralegal Club and DCBA events. Go the extra mile in your studies. Be professional and ethical in everything you do. You never know when your actions could lead to your getting a fantastic job. Most of all, enjoy every minute of the Program. You will graduate before you know it!