Closer to Graduation: Reminiscing Drexel Co-op Experiences — Law Edition

Yesterday, I received an email from my academic advisor nudging me to start thinking about the logistics of graduating in spring 2023. Applying for a degree, receiving transcripts, attending job fairs, meeting with the career development office — all those little boxes you must check off to be adequately equipped with the tools and resources to go on into the real world. I may have teared up a little, thinking of how this five-year-long run was coming to an end. However, I am grateful for the support and opportunities that have guided me toward my long-term professional goals.

One such extremely rewarding opportunity has been my co-op at Morgan, Lewis and Bockius. For someone that has always been hyper-focused on attending law school and pursuing a career as a trial attorney, this opportunity has been nothing short of pivotal in helping me scope out my skills and interests.

We share professional resources and have niche conversations regarding our field, as well as relate it back to the legal theory taught in classes at Drexel.

As an administrative paralegal, I have had the chance to experience the practical application of law across multiple practice areas. I have had the opportunity to assist attorney teams in drafting and revising exhibit lists and legal notices in preparation of trial. I have learned how to utilize complex court filing sites and legal compliance software to extract key fact material. Having voiced my interest in anti-trust and mergers and acquisitions, my boss opened up a space for me to work in the business development side of the firm, learning the tricks and trades of hefty financial transactions and contract writing.

Most exciting of all, I had the opportunity to coordinate logistics for an in-house arbitration. Once that was done, I had the option to observe top-of-their-game attorneys present their arguments to convince the arbitrator of their client's innocence. The way these seasoned attorneys cross-questioned opposing sides' witnesses was nothing short of some well-crafted legal drama!

Additionally, this co-op allowed me to network with well-known and highly knowledgeable professionals. We discussed the ins and outs of corporate law, grad school applications, and future professional opportunities. I also found a community of like-minded young professionals who are looking toward a similar career path as I am. We share professional resources and have niche conversations regarding our field, as well as relate it back to the legal theory taught in classes at Drexel.

All of this is to say that, while my journey at Drexel may be coming to an end soon, I could not be happier about how it carved out. It has changed me for the better and, although nostalgic about the past, I can't wait to see what's next!