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SAT Writing Teacher vs. Paralegal?

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 7:10 pm
by username201
Hi guys

So I have two options to choose from:
1) I can either continue to work as an SAT writing teacher
2) or start working as a paralegal at a law firm

Let's assume the stress level, pay, and hours are similar on both jobs.


If I work as a paralegal, I will get to work with family law attorneys, and potentially work on cases that involve domestic violence, child abuse, neglect, which is what I am passionate about. But I know that paralegal experience is extremely common on all law school applicants.

If I continue my work as SAT instructor, I can express my passion for working with/for children (maybe? maybe it doesn't?), but will not have any hands-on experience on actual child abuse/neglect cases.

Any advice on which one would be a better choice for me?

Thanks guys

Re: SAT Writing Teacher vs. Paralegal?

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 7:16 pm
by Humbert Humbert
username201 wrote:Hi guys

So I have two options to choose from:
1) I can either continue to work as an SAT writing teacher
2) or start working as a paralegal at a law firm

Let's assume the stress level, pay, and hours are similar on both jobs.


If I work as a paralegal, I will get to work with family law attorneys, and potentially work on cases that involve domestic violence, child abuse, neglect, which is what I am passionate about. But I know that paralegal experience is extremely common on all law school applicants.

If I continue my work as SAT instructor, I can express my passion for working with/for children (maybe? maybe it doesn't?), but will not have any hands-on experience on actual child abuse/neglect cases.

Any advice on which one would be a better choice for me?

Thanks guys
Seems like a pretty easy choice.

Re: SAT Writing Teacher vs. Paralegal?

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 9:31 pm
by username201
Humbert Humbert wrote:
username201 wrote:Hi guys

So I have two options to choose from:
1) I can either continue to work as an SAT writing teacher
2) or start working as a paralegal at a law firm

Let's assume the stress level, pay, and hours are similar on both jobs.


If I work as a paralegal, I will get to work with family law attorneys, and potentially work on cases that involve domestic violence, child abuse, neglect, which is what I am passionate about. But I know that paralegal experience is extremely common on all law school applicants.

If I continue my work as SAT instructor, I can express my passion for working with/for children (maybe? maybe it doesn't?), but will not have any hands-on experience on actual child abuse/neglect cases.

Any advice on which one would be a better choice for me?

Thanks guys
Seems like a pretty easy choice.


how so?

Re: SAT Writing Teacher vs. Paralegal?

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 9:49 pm
by dr123
Why not do both? Isn't SAT prep mostly a nights and weekend type gig.

Re: SAT Writing Teacher vs. Paralegal?

Posted: Fri Sep 27, 2013 10:46 pm
by BruinRegents
It depends on whether or not you're sure that you want to go to law school or want to be a lawyer. If you are unsure, then it may be best to work as a paralegal. Additionally, "common" doesn't mean it's a negative. Especially if you can show that is it an extension of your passions and you excelled. And if you can do both, then do so.

Re: SAT Writing Teacher vs. Paralegal?

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 12:49 am
by AT9
Assuming similar pay and stress levels, go paralegal. If you're turning down a job in which you think you'll be able to work on things you're passionate about, are you really that passionate about it? You get real-world legal experience and in the specific field you want to work in - seems to be an easy choice!

Disclaimer: I happen to be a paralegal applying to law school, so I may be a bit biased.

Re: SAT Writing Teacher vs. Paralegal?

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 6:27 pm
by username201
Hmm.. any other ideas?

Re: SAT Writing Teacher vs. Paralegal?

Posted: Sat Sep 28, 2013 6:30 pm
by dr123
Do both, no one tutors the SAT during normal business hours.