Andrew Lee, a student in Hofstra Law’s Paralegal Studies Certificate Program, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics and a minor in psychology from Boston University. He comes from a versatile background working with technology startups and finance companies and has a strong interest in blockchain technology, securities, and commodities.
What made you consider entering the paralegal field?
I wanted to stay in the technology field, but employment opportunities were competitive and limited. I felt that the risk profile was high, so I decided to broaden the search that still would tie into my knowledge and interests. Family members recommended that I look into paralegal studies.
I learned that paralegals are in high demand, and they can work in a variety of fields. My tech and finance knowledge might be useful for helping lawyers.
What stood out to you about Hofstra Law’s program?
While doing some research into different paralegal programs, I found that Hofstra Law serves students in person, which was a big deal for me. I didn’t want to do it online, and I was looking for a reputable institution. The commute from Queens was convenient, and it’s a great school at a great price.
What skills have you learned from the program?
I’ve learned a lot about legal research, such as where to look for laws, where the codes are located online in legal research databases, and how to read those documents and codes. They’re not easy to understand for the layperson, and the program has expanded my understanding of the law.
I’ve also learned about a lot of different types of law. We’ve covered civil litigation, trusts and estates, wills, criminal law, and bankruptcy. I’ve had the most exciting time so far with bankruptcy law, which I didn’t expect having previously worked for an organization where I would see these documents without knowing their meaning.
Now that I’ve studied bankruptcy law, I can better understand these documents. The information is practical and applicable. I like it and it relates to some finance and technology I already know, so I think I’d be an asset for a bankruptcy firm.
How has the program prepared you for the paralegal field?
Professional attitude is a focus you learn about in this program. I noticed that at the beginning of the program, not many of us really knew how to act in a legal professional capacity. We might have experience in other fields, but to be a legal professional, you must be fair and unbiased. You must take in information calmly and remember details.
It’s important to learn how to record information consistently. You learn when to employ certain strategies, how to act in certain scenarios, and what the right course of action is.
We also focused on communication skills with clients, lawyers, clerks, and judges. We’re also taught how to act ethically and morally in complicated situations. Your actions as a paralegal affect people because you’re handling sensitive documents, information, and personal details.
What is your favorite part of the program?
My favorite part of the program is going to Hofstra Law and being able to study and utilize the resources in the Law School. That in-person aspect of the program is very valuable to me. The program is not in a generic continuing education or online environment but held within a prestigious Law School. I have the same access to study rooms, library materials, and facilities as the law students, and being around fellow students adds to the ambiance and professional feel of learning. I’ve really enjoyed that.
Learn more about Hofstra Law’s Paralegal Studies Certificate Program.
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