Flexibility, organization keys to successful career

Job: Paralegal

Age: 28

Years in this job/line of work: three-and-a-half years

How I got here (education/experience): I graduated from Indiana University (Bloomington) in 1999, earning a B.A. in history and a minor in Spanish. I also completed the course requirements to obtain an Indiana teacher's license. After teaching and managing a retail store, I accepted a paralegal position at Birk & Birk law firm in Jasper, Ind. In 2003, I earned a paralegal certificate from Indiana UniversitySoutheast. Upon returning home to Indianapolis, I began working at Lewis Wagner LLP.

What I like about my job: When I am able to see the results of our hard work in the successful resolution of cases for our clients. I spend much of my time reviewing and summarizing medical records, as well as locating and interviewing witnesses. I have the honor of working with a fantastic group of attorneys, paralegals and staff, and each of our efforts plays an important and integral role in the development of our cases.

What I don't like about my job: If I had to choose something, I do not particularly enjoy the fact that no matter how much effort we put into a case, or how strongly we feel our client's position may be, there is always someone else that will disagree.

Advice I would have for someone considering this field: To be a success in this field, you must be dedicated, hardworking and organized. You also must have the ability to prioritize and multitask. You have to be flexible and understand that deadlines constantly change. What may be your most urgent project in the morning could end up being your least urgent project by the afternoon.

Family: I am fortunate to have a wonderful family. Most of my family lives in the Indianapolis area, and we have many opportunities to spend time together.

I spend my free time: I generally spend my free time camping and doing cookouts with my family and friends. I also enjoy playing golf.

The most valuable career lesson I've learned so far is: to always be confident in your decisions. Do not worry about the little things. There will always be things that are beyond your control, so you should focus only on the things that you have the ability to change.