Vath Committee Earns Award for Distinguished Service
At the annual meeting of the Atlanta Bar Association on May 22, co-chairs Margaret Vath, instructor of law, and Dawn Jones (J.D. '00) accepted the Distinguished Service Award on behalf of the Law School Outreach Committee, which helps students prepare to become practicing attorneys. The Atlanta Bar president selected the committee to receive the annual award.
In addition to Vath and Jones, the committee includes practicing attorneys and career service representatives from the five Georgia law schools. This past year, the committee organized a mock interview and resume review workshop, an ABA section fair allowing students to speak with lawyers practicing in one of the 20-plus sections affiliated with the ABA, a public interest career fair and networking events with local attorneys.
Jones has been involved with the committee for more than seven years. She viewed this as a great opportunity to give back and help students be better prepared for interviews and networking.
"We help students develop the skill sets necessary to stand out to potential employers. It's hard for some to explain why they are the best candidate for a job. By practicing interviews and having a professional review their resume, many students become much more comfortable with the process," Jones says. "I would have loved to have this resource available to me when I was in school."
Vath became co-chair in 2012. Several students have sent her thank you notes after attending one of the committee's events.
"They are grateful for the opportunity to network with attorneys and find out more about their desired practice area," Vath says. "We not only help them prepare for interviews, we also advise them on things to do and practical ways to gain experience before applying for positions with firms."
The committee is working on a series of short Web videos that cover topics ranging from how to dress for an interview to preparing an impressive cover letter. To learn more about the committee and upcoming events, contact Vath at 404-413-9154.