We recognized Lewis-Clark State College for offering one of theTop 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 Natalie H. Holman, faculty member at Lewis-Clark State College, 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?
Natalie: Absolutely! Many individuals are coming into our paralegal and legal practice assistant programs looking to transition into a career that is more meaningful and fulfilling to them. In addition, the legal profession is experiencing significant growth; this means that there is a need for high quality, trained legal support staff.
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?
Natalie: Educating paralegals has evolved over time due to the growth and development of the legal field. In response to this growth, paralegal educators have had to develop course curriculum that moves beyond just working for lawyers. Many federal/state governmental entities and corporations now need to employ legal support staff. Educators now have to emphasize an academic approach to paralegal studies, as well as relative hands-on, technical trainings to fully prepare students for what the legal industry needs and demands.
Does the program at your school include an internship and are faculty available to help students find one?
Natalie: Yes. The paralegal and legal practice assistant programs at Lewis-Clark State College do require students to complete an internship as part of their degree plan. Our faculty are able to assist students in locating an internship site that best fits their interests and goals as a legal professional.
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?
Natalie: Lewis-Clark State College is one of the top public comprehensive four-year colleges in the West, with a beautiful campus, small classes, and superb faculty. It is often described as a public institution with the feel and quality of a private college.
The paralegal and legal practice assistant programs at Lewis-Clark State College are also well-known for their high-ranking bachelor, associate and certificate degree programs that incorporate first-rate, experiential learning opportunities through internships and practicums, as well as a low student to faculty ratio, a small campus community, and individualized instruction and attention.
Many students who have successfully completed the paralegal and legal practice assistant programs at Lewis-Clark State College now work as paralegals, court clerks, title/abstract examiners, legal researchers, contract specialists, claims adjusters, court assistance program specialists and limited practice officers.
Check out our full interview series here to see what other professors and faculty are saying about their paralegal programs.