What to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Alafaya FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other crucial factors to think about also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select should be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Alafaya FL law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Alafaya FL law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also provide a means for students to begin creating contacts within the Alafaya FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to establish relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the community where you choose to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially consider those colleges that are within the Alafaya FL area.
How Much is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Alafaya FL. Naturally if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Alafaya FL, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose offers that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up classes missed because of work, illness or family obligations.