Sisters in Law
Author: Heather T. / Editor: Bella B. and Ariana W. / Photographer: Abby W.
Delta Gamma’s Kathryn H. recently earned an internship at Dennis, Jackson, Martin & Fontela P.A., where she is demonstrating outstanding dedication to her field of study. She primarily works as a “runner” who helps with a variety of tasks in the law firm. A day in Kathryn’s shoes involves answering emails, organizing files, and accomplishing other administrative work. Essentially, she is responsible for several miscellaneous tasks throughout the office and is anticipated to relieve some of the legalworkloads. It is a high expectation, but one she rises to every day.
Kathryn explains that there are many unfamiliar terms that one has to learn when entering the legal field. For example, she explains that each filing system has an independent organization system and there is a separate process for organizing closed cases. She is able to learn a lot about the legal industry by talking firsthand with the attorneys and legal assistants she works with, which was exactly the plan when applying for this role. “They are very successful in their careers…they represent my end-goal and what I want to be doing” so it is helpful to talk about their experiences and hear their advice.
“It’s very nice that before I go into law school I get to gain experience and become more comfortable in a professional setting,” says Kathryn. Being introduced to the legal field in this way has allowed her to become exposed to the environment at a gradual pace that allows her to feel more comfortable wading in. The overarching sense of community within Panhellenic is not limited to in house or even on campus settings. Kathryn expresses how her legal internship has allowed her to grow closer to other members of the Panhellenic community as there is another Panhellenic woman who works alongside her.
Kathryn feels extremely lucky to make connections with sisters of other chapters and loves to attend Panhellenic events where she can grow closer to other members within panhellenic. Close friend and fellow Delta Gamma, Emily M., loves how Kathryn’s “legal internship has allowed her to educate many sisters on important information we can use in our futures. It has been so amazing to have sisters expanding in the realm of law as we need more women in law and politics.”
Her sisters in Delta Gamma have been incredibly supportive and proud of her accomplishments. As well, Kathryn's ability to professionally communicate and, “mentor and provide guidance to younger members of the chapter,” has brought her great pride in her accomplishments. Oftentimes, sisters who are interested in law school will ask her about her experiences, how she obtained her internship, and the best ways to balance a successful work and personal life.
This internship has allowed Kathryn to develop her confidence and sense of self within her chapter community, as well as personally. She loves how, “the collaborative vibe during recruitment provides new opportunities to talk to people and engage in deeper conversations.” Her experiences in Delta Gamma gave her the “skills to show a deeper side of me than I would have been able to without the Panhellenic community.” Kathryn plans to continue her legal pursuits this summer at a law firm in Maryland. At this internship, she plans to do more hands-on research and plans to use the skills she learned this semester to guide her.
Kathryn feels incredibly grateful and lucky to be a member of the Panhellenic community. She now knows that “there is a whole professional side that is a game-changer, especially when you feel lost or intimidated, someone always has your back!” Kathryn feels extremely grateful for the opportunities she has and is excited to continue learning and growing through both Panhellenic and her legal internship!