The following column was originally published in the Laredo Morning Times Business Journal. Laredo College participates each month and everyone is encouraged to pick up a copy of the Laredo Morning Times to catch the story first.
Column by: Melissa D. Santos, Workforce Development Coordinator
For more than 75 years, Laredo College has been in a prime position to listen to the community and provide opportunities not found elsewhere. Leveraging these opportunities has been a factor in the college’s success since the very beginning.
With the historic Fort McIntosh Campus just blocks away from a number of distinguished law offices and the Southern District of Texas’ Laredo Division, LC’s Legal Administrative Professional Program offers students a great way to dive into a legal career at an affordable price.
The program is typically offered twice a year, with sessions in both the spring and fall. Designed to fit the schedules of busy professionals, the program spans 11 weeks, with evening classes held on weekdays. This flexible schedule allows participants to balance their work commitments while gaining essential skills for a career in the legal field.
The course structure includes comprehensive instruction, and the certification exam is incorporated into the program schedule. Upon successful completion, students are prepared to advance their careers in legal administration.
As mentioned, our institution’s proximity to numerous law offices provides students with direct exposure to the local legal market and potential job opportunities upon completing the program. This accessibility enhances their ability to build valuable connections with potential employers, fostering professional networking that can lead to internships, part-time roles or full-time employment.
Speaking with Veronica Arevalo, a current student in the program, she said that to be successful in the Legal Administrative Professional Program, students must possess a strong foundation in several key areas. First and foremost, proficiency in grammar and proofreading is essential, as legal work requires precise and accurate written communication.
She also said that a strong attention to detail is another critical skill, as legal professionals often work with complex documents where even the smallest error can have significant consequences. Clear and effective communication, both written and verbal, is also vital for success in the legal field, as professionals must be able to convey information clearly and persuasively.
Veronica is a perfect example of how our students understand both the demand and requirements for a career in the legal field. This makes it important for the LC faculty to convey that success in the Legal Professional Program requires a combination of strong academic skills, dedication and the ability to work well both independently and in collaborative environments.
In this regard, students in the program can expect a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience designed to prepare them for a successful career in the legal field. Throughout the program, they will gain a deep understanding of key legal concepts, including legal terminology, ethics, document preparation and office management. Classes are structured to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that students are ready to perform essential legal administrative tasks upon graduation.
In addition to lectures and coursework, students can expect to engage in interactive activities, case studies and group discussions that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Overall, students can expect a rigorous yet rewarding experience that equips them with the knowledge, skills and practical experience needed to succeed in the legal profession.
Ultimately, the Legal Administrative Professional Program offers an exceptional pathway for individuals aspiring to enter the legal field. In addition to providing a solid foundation of legal knowledge and skills, the program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to balance their education with other professional or personal commitments.
We are committed to the success of our students and take pride in the positive impact our program has on their professional growth. To learn more about the program, please contact the Continuing Education Department at ce_staff@laredo.edu or (956)721-5374.