We recognized Clayton State University for offering one of Top Post-Degree Certificate Programs, adding them to our list of top recommendations for students in the area.
We were excited to hear from Mara Mooney, faculty member at Clayton State University, who took the time to answer a few questions about how the school works to create a great student experience that helps prepare graduates for a career in the legal field.
Are you finding a lot of career changers in your program looking to get their start in the legal profession?
Mara: We have a terrific mix of first-time college students, post-baccalaureate students seeking their paralegal certificate, and career changers looking to earn a first or second college degree. The legal opportunities in the Atlanta metro area have been robust and varied, especially in recent years, and we enjoy an excellent relationship with many legal professionals in the area. We are also fortunate to have ABA approval, which draws students from a wide geographic area to our program.
Paralegals are really getting the respect they deserve these days, and taking on more and more responsibilities on the job. How is this changing the approach to educating new paralegals?
Mara: The paralegal profession can be extremely rewarding and challenging. We train our students to handle a myriad of exciting, hands-on tasks, while emphasizing that non-attorneys are not permitted to practice law or give legal advice to clients.
Does the program at your school include an internship and are faculty available to help students find one?
Mara: Yes, we believe it’s an invaluable experience for paralegal and legal studies students to participate in a legal internship. Our program has a designated internship coordinator who can assist students in their search for locating placement.
What are some of the things you love most about the paralegal program at your school – the kind of things you’d like future students to know about as they consider their options?
Mara: Our faculty really care about our students and their future success as paralegals in the legal profession. We work closely with students and share opportunities with them for career development.
Check out our full interview series here to see what other professors and faculty are saying about their paralegal programs.