Major: Paralegal Studies
Many years ago, John Persichitte wanted to attend law school.
“I have always been interested in law and the legal system in general, but I found a career in the grocery retail industry,” he said. “After many years I wanted a career change, but going to law school was not a practical solution at that point in my life. Becoming a paralegal was the next best thing.”
Turning to College of DuPage and its Paralegal Studies program was the best decision he made.
Adult Student Admissions at COD
“I read that when looking for a paralegal school, one should look for the best program for the best price. Convenience was also key, and since I lived in the area and still was working full time, COD was the obvious choice and a great value,” he said. “COD offered an American Bar Association-approved program that was flexible enough for me to continue working full time.”
Persichitte liked that classes were taught by attorneys, who provided students with real-life experiences on what was expected of paralegals as well as networking opportunities. He also appreciated how Program Coordinator Sally N. Fairbank worked diligently to get students internships that resulted in experience and a step forward into the profession.
In fact, she was instrumental in helping him secure an innovative internship with Edward-Elmhurst Health.
“I knew I wanted to work in a large organization, and the thought of being in a hospital environment just piqued my interest,” he said. “Knowing that hospitals had a legal department, I contacted the paralegal at Edward Hospital. Sally Fairbank was key in the process. After a few interviews and phone conversations, we developed a plan and went forward from there. I had a great experience as I learned the business side of things, such as contracts and leases, as well as the litigation side.”
Graduating after 18 months with a Paralegal Studies certificate, Persichitte initially was a contract paralegal for a subrogation firm but then moved to a small estate planning law firm, where he stayed for nearly three years. However, he missed working with a large organization and took advantage of an opportunity at the DuPage County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office. After about six months, he knew it was the place for him and then was promoted to Human Resources Manager.
Paralegal Studies Success Stories
Persichitte is glad he found COD and strongly encourages anyone interested in becoming a paralegal to enroll.
“My advice would be to keep your mind open, do lots of networking and talk to anybody in the legal field or any field that has a legal element to it, which is just about everything,” he said. “The Paralegal Studies program is a great value, provides career opportunities and was an overall outstanding experience.”
Learn more about the Paralegal Studies program at College of DuPage