I did take the time, though, to answer an email I received from a subscriber who said,
“I’m currently in my last quarter of school. I’m doing my externship right now. I’m a little nervous about finding employment after graduating. I’m 50 yrs old, and I’m afraid that my age may scare some prospects away. The unemployment rate is sky high here in Anytown, USA. What should I do? All this school for what? Im considering continuing my education after I graduate at XXXX University, to get my Bachelors in Advanced Paralegal Studies. I can graduate in a year and a half since my credits from my associates will transfer. I dont know. It’s confusing. Any advice would be appreciated Vicki.
Thanks alot –
Hi, XXXX…It’s great to hear from you. I do understand your concerns but I encourage you to stop to looking at the big picture because that’s overwhelming.
Instead, set your big goal (getting a job) and then break that into smaller goals. The first goal is, of course, to finish your courses. Continuing your education is always a good thing and you might also think about sitting for a certification exam.
As for a job, I’m wouldn’t have said this a few years ago, but in today’s economy you should take any thing you can get that’s law related so that you get your foot in the door at a law firm, government agency, corporation, etc. I assure you that your education will pay off as the economy comes around and I am seeing light at the end of the tunnel. You’ll want to position yourself for the next step.
Get yourself a good resume and start practicing for interviews. Follow Alison Doyle who posts on www.about.com for lots of great tips. The best thing you can do is to prepare for the next step.
Telling you not to worry is probably like trying to stop the Gulf Oil Spill, but I hope you will focus on all the good that is happening and be positive.
Let me know if I can do anything else for you, Patty…and do let me know who things go. I encourage students to write…it’s good for me to hear from you and my goal is to help you have a satisfying career.
Dedicated to your success!
Vicki
Vicki Voisin, ACP
Your Paralegal Mentor
Ethics Expert, Speaker, Author
Author of the forthcoming book Excellence Is An Attitude
Contact me: [email protected]
My website: paralegalmentor.com
My blog: www.paralegalmentorblog.com