We recognized Methodist University for offering one of Top Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Paralegal Studies, adding them to our list of top recommendations for students in the area.
We were excited to hear from Wendy Vonnegut, J.D, faculty member at Methodist 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?
Wendy: No, as we are an undergraduate University and most of the students are completing the minor to have more employment opportunities or to prepare to go to Law School. We offered an evening program for students and are looking to expand that for individuals who already have a college degree but would like to get their paralegal certification,
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?
Wendy: You need to use more technology in the class room. Also using more challenging assignments and working with the legal community to ensure that the program is teaching the most up to date information for the profession. Using guest speakers is a great way to keep the program updated. The program requires that students complete an internship and this really helps.
Does the program at your school include an internship and are faculty available to help students find one?
Wendy: Students are required to complete an Internship and yes the Director of the Legal Studies program works with students to locate internships.
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?
Wendy: I love that we have small classes and we really get to know our students. The faculty have a passion for teaching the law. It is great to have the legal community willing to work with the students. We are a hands on based program and students learn how the law is applied in all situations.
Check out our full interview series here to see what other professors and faculty are saying about their paralegal programs.