In honor of Women’s History Month, Archer proposed a series of questions related to the month’s significance to the firm’s female attorneys. The following responses represent the experiences and inspiration of career-driven women in fields of law. Join Archer as we celebrate the words and achievements of past and present female attorneys.
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What advice would you give to young girls who aspire to become lawyers or other professionals?
Tatiana Webb: “Absolutely nothing is linear. Appreciate every experience you get, but try to stay in the big picture mindset.”
Melissa Dibble: “To get practical experience and exposure to the profession. Often the study of the subject is very different than the day-to-day job, so the more internships, externships, and jobs you can get in the field you are interested in the more equipped you will be to know if and what you want to do, and importantly as well, what you do not want to do.”
Ashley Rotchford: “Be confident and speak up. Your ideas are worth being heard.”
Marie Lihotz: “Develop a strong sense of yourself—your strengths, your limits, and things you can improve and change. Never let anyone else define who you are. Ask questions, build relationships, explore new places and try new activities. These broad life experiences not only bring you joy, but they also add depth to your humanity.”
Nilufer DeScherer: “Recognize what you’re good at and what interests you, and then look for mentors that can help you reach your goals.”
Maureen Coghlan: “My best advice for young women is the advice my dad gave to me: surround yourself with good people, and good things will happen for you. Find people you admire and learn everything you can from them! Seek out people who encourage you and make you better. And as you climb, always take the opportunity to champion other women; we go further together!”
Tara Hanna: “Confidence and being direct will go a long way in your legal or professional career. Sometimes women are conditioned to apologize for being too confrontational and direct when men are not. Our clients often appreciate clear and direct advice and sense confidence in decision-making. Practice now being confident in your knowledge!”
Sarah Gribbin: “Strive for a healthy work-life balance. It can be done.”