Why did you become an attorney?
I am a problem solver as well as a competitor. The legal field seemed like the perfect intersection of those two traits. I love that my day to day consists of strategizing with different fact patterns and trying to find the best solution for the client.
Now that you've started practicing, what's been the biggest surprise about life as a lawyer?
The biggest surprise about life as a lawyer has been the camaraderie within the profession. TV shows about law firms - looking at you Suits - depict attorneys as hostile, highly competitive, and non-collaborative within the field or even within the firm. That is not the case within our Indianapolis legal community. Our legal community has a positive, professional, and respectful culture and that's a community I'm very proud to be a part of.
What's a piece of advice you'd give to other young attorneys just starting out?
Be patient and don't take criticism personally. Everyone is well aware that it takes time to practice law so take the remarks and feedback as learning opportunities, not as an indication you're unprepared or unskilled.
Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time or recharge?
Outside of work, you can typically find me at a local coffee shop patio, reading a book with my puppy, Goose. Otherwise, I like to run, play tennis, travel, and spend time with my fiancé, family and friends.
WLD's theme this year is "Women in the Driver's Seat". Who has helped you get into the driver's seat in your career, or who inspires you to continue moving forward?
My colleague and mentor, Melanie Kalmbach, has been the greatest mentor and goal for how I want to conduct my legal career. By chance, her and I were connected my 1L year and I was fortunate enough to begin my legal career in the office next door to hers. In my first year, under her guidance, I've learned how to work more efficiently, think more critically about cases, and be more involved in the community. She is the kind of attorney I strive to be.
What's one goal (career-related or not) you're excited about for the future?
Non career-related, I want to run my first marathon in the next couple years. Career-related, I am excited to lead my first jury trial. This past month, I led my first bench trial and, while one of the most challenging things I've had to prepare for, it was the most rewarding and got me fired up about my career in litigation.
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