Networking event a success

By Mark P. Yablon

Networking fair, photo credit M. Yablon

UALR Bowen School of Law gave students at its April 1 networking fair the opportunity to introduce themselves to approximately 30 prospective legal employers from private practice, business, government, higher education, and public interest.  Employers also provided career advice and answered questions.

“This was the largest networking fair ever at Bowen,” Assistant Dean of Career Services Eric Walker said. “This was the first time we needed two large rooms to hold everyone. We also have received a lot of positive feedback from both employers and students.”

Employers and students alike shared widespread compliments and appreciation for the event. “I thought it was really well organized,” Jessica Lee, Chief Counsel for HUD’s Little Rock Field Office, said. “The students who stopped by to talk to me seemed to have a genuine interest in public service positions and appeared to be well-prepared for the event.”

The Arkansas Attorney General’s office and Arkansas Municipal League participated to increase awareness of their student clerking programs and post-graduate careers as well as to meet students. “We think [Bowen’s networking fair] is a great idea, both for students and potential employers,” David C. Schoen, Legal Counsel for the League and Bowen alumnus, said. “The open nature of the event offered a relaxed atmosphere.”

“Students had the opportunity to learn about many different career paths here in Central Arkansas,” explained Katie Place, Career Services Program Coordinator. “The opportunity to meet and network with local attorneys is important because you never know when it will open a door down the road.”

LaTonya Laird Austin, Deputy City Attorney for the City of Little Rock and Bowen alumna, said the City participated in the event to educate students on career opportunities, network with future colleagues, and make connections generally.  “Students may have gained knowledge about what they like, don’t like, the type of atmosphere associated with certain practices of law and the various areas of law which are not really seen while being a student at the law school,” she explained.

Beryl Rushefsky, a 3L student from Texas, concurred. “I was pleased to discover agencies in areas I had never before considered working. I had a couple of very enjoyable conversations.”

Michael Fisher, a 2L student from West Virginia, said he gained knowledge and picked up good career advice. Representatives told him that federal agencies announce program openings in early fall and may give graduating students 30 days to submit extensive applications. They advised Mr. Fisher to complete his application packets this summer so he can submit them promptly in the fall without taking away from school. He said he also enjoyed visiting with Kutak Rock LLP attorneys who gave him insight on their day-to-day work activities.

Both Dean Walker and Ms. Place came to Bowen’s Career Services at the start of this academic year. Their two student assistants—Alexandra Gonzalez, a 3L from Colorado, and Shelly Shaw, a 1L from Texas—helped organize the fair.

Career Services helps students find legal clerkships and explore diverse legal careers. They have sponsored an average of one luncheon a week, hosting attorneys who educate students on resumes, cover letters, networking tips, academics, and careers. They also assist alumni in their career advancement and help employers nationwide find top talent from Bowen.

 

Mark P. Yablon is a Texas entrepreneur turned first-year law student at UALR William H. Bowen School of Law and the public affairs assistant in the Office of the Dean.

Posted in: News

Comments are closed.