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Pathways Fellows Visit Conrad & Scherer and The Federal Courthouse

The 12 Pathways Fellows, participating in the Conrad & Scherer Pathways to Careers in Law, recently spent a day at the downtown Fort Lauderdale law firm’s office. Pathways is a collaboration between Conrad & Scherer, Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law (NSU Law), and Fort Lauderdale High School’s Law Magnet program.

The day included a visit to the Federal Courthouse to observe a live hearing in the chambers of the Honorable Raag Singhal, followed by a meeting in his office to ask questions and learn about his personal background and professional career track. Activities at the law firm’s offices included a tour and presentation by the Founder of Conrad & Scherer, William R. Scherer. Partner Janine McGuire moderated the day’s discussions, which also included Alexa Gebert, a new associate, who shared her experiences of becoming a lawyer. Human Resources Director Paul Paguaga offered resume writing and interview tips. The Pathways Fellows also learned about other law firm jobs from paralegals Clayton Pengel and Alejandro Maya, and Francis Lau, who handles administrative and IT support.

“Being a lawyer is just one option for a career in law,” explained Partner Janine McGuire, who manages the Pathways program. “We wanted to give the students a clear insight into each of the roles that make a law firm operate, understand the steps required to enter the various positions, and see first-hand what a law firm looks like in real-time.”

Also attending the event were José Roberto (Beto) Juárez Jr., Dean of NSU Shepard Broad College of Law, and Jane Ellen Cross, Associate Dean for Diversity, Inclusion, & Public Impact, Director of the Caribbean Law Program.