NEW ORLEANS — Prospective law students eager to join the profession need to be aware of the long road ahead.
To prepare students and encourage interests for future generations, Delgado Community College recently held a lively panel with the Minorities in the Profession Committee to discuss “Maintaining Longevity in the Profession.”
“The panel was received very positively,” Delgado Community College Chancellor Joan Davis told the Louisiana Record. “The attendees were very engaged and asked questions. I heard very positive feedback. Some of the attendees asked if they could contact members of the panel for counsel and advice.”
Members of the panel included Davis, and attorneys James Williams and Kim Boyle. Darlene Peters moderated the event.
Discussions included welcoming and working through the challenges of the profession by changing preconceived notions, and the importance of being active and engaged in various bar associations and legal organizations, as well as participating in social activities, civic commitments and organizations that may be unrelated to law.
One of the most engrossing topics was the discussion regarding work balance, Davis recently told the Louisiana Record.
“The discussions regarding workload, dealing with stress and finding balance were insightful to the attendees and panelists,” she said.
Balancing stress, work and life at home leads to a better work environment, the panel said. Another recommendation Davis suggests for prospective students is to engage early and build a connection with the law.
“Develop a relationship with a lawyer, someone who has been down that rocky road, and who can provide advice as well as a sympathetic and empathetic ear,” Davis said.
With the panel's success, Davis looks forward to future opportunities
“Most definitely,” she replied when asked if she would do a similar panel. “I enjoyed the fellowship and the opportunity to meet others who have had some of the same experiences.