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what do I need to do to become a paraprofessional?
I am a senior in high school and I like helping others. I think being a paraprofessional is a great idea.
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Maureen’s Answer
Hi Juan!
It looks like you're in NY so I checked and found a website that lists NY colleges offering paralegal programs. I'm a paralegal in CA and began my career in the 90s in Ohio. Ohio offered a Bachelor degree in paralegal studies, which is what I'd wanted. However, after completing my first semester, I had to move to CA and, at that time, there were no colleges offering anything more than a 6 month "certificate program" OR a 2yr certificate & AA degree. I went for the 2 year certification and AA degree.
I would highly recommend shooting for at least a Bachelor's, if at all possible. It will make you that much more marketable for firms when you finish and you can command a higher pay. And although there are programs out there that will probably be cheaper, I would STRONGLY advise making certain you go with an ABA-approved college or program. It's soooo much more worth it in the long run!
I'd also recommend that when you're in your program, you try to get a job even part-time at a law firm. Start out as a clerk or receptionist if nothing else. Firms like to hire internally if they can and you'll be that much closer to your goal of working as a paralegal the minute you graduate. You'll also have a better idea if you like the law that firm is practicing or if you might want to jump to a firm specializing in another area. Either way, you'll have legal experience and will understand the lingo. And as you won't have many references yet, I'd also advise making friends with the teachers in your program. Let them get to know you and see how eager you are and how well you do your schoolwork. I began my career solely with teachers who agreed to be a reference for me as the work I'd done prior wasn't law-related, although my references were very good.
https://www.paralegal411.org/schools/new-york/
Here's the website for NY paralegal programs. I wish you the very best of luck and much success in whatever you decide to do! :D
It looks like you're in NY so I checked and found a website that lists NY colleges offering paralegal programs. I'm a paralegal in CA and began my career in the 90s in Ohio. Ohio offered a Bachelor degree in paralegal studies, which is what I'd wanted. However, after completing my first semester, I had to move to CA and, at that time, there were no colleges offering anything more than a 6 month "certificate program" OR a 2yr certificate & AA degree. I went for the 2 year certification and AA degree.
I would highly recommend shooting for at least a Bachelor's, if at all possible. It will make you that much more marketable for firms when you finish and you can command a higher pay. And although there are programs out there that will probably be cheaper, I would STRONGLY advise making certain you go with an ABA-approved college or program. It's soooo much more worth it in the long run!
I'd also recommend that when you're in your program, you try to get a job even part-time at a law firm. Start out as a clerk or receptionist if nothing else. Firms like to hire internally if they can and you'll be that much closer to your goal of working as a paralegal the minute you graduate. You'll also have a better idea if you like the law that firm is practicing or if you might want to jump to a firm specializing in another area. Either way, you'll have legal experience and will understand the lingo. And as you won't have many references yet, I'd also advise making friends with the teachers in your program. Let them get to know you and see how eager you are and how well you do your schoolwork. I began my career solely with teachers who agreed to be a reference for me as the work I'd done prior wasn't law-related, although my references were very good.
https://www.paralegal411.org/schools/new-york/
Here's the website for NY paralegal programs. I wish you the very best of luck and much success in whatever you decide to do! :D
Updated
Melody’s Answer
Greetings Juan,
I looked into the information for the state of NY. In order to be permanently appointed as a paraprofessional you must hold a New York State Education Department ***Teaching Assistant Certificate Level 1***.
How to apply for your Teaching Assistant certificates for Levels I, II, and III:
You must complete the application online at this website. http://www.highered.nysed.gov/tcert
If you are already registered with TEACH, the online certification registry, click “Log in to TEACH.” If you are not yet registered, click “Self-register with TEACH” and follow the instructions to register.
Complete the basic profile and then click to apply for the certificate.
Requirements: https://www.uft.org/news/new-york-state-requirements-paraprofessionals
Hope this helps you. You may get more information and a better picture by talking with several paraprofessionals in different levels: elementary, middle, and high school, and years as a paraprofessional. Have you talked with those in your school? Consider connecting with the paraprofessionals around you.
I looked into the information for the state of NY. In order to be permanently appointed as a paraprofessional you must hold a New York State Education Department ***Teaching Assistant Certificate Level 1***.
How to apply for your Teaching Assistant certificates for Levels I, II, and III:
You must complete the application online at this website. http://www.highered.nysed.gov/tcert
If you are already registered with TEACH, the online certification registry, click “Log in to TEACH.” If you are not yet registered, click “Self-register with TEACH” and follow the instructions to register.
Complete the basic profile and then click to apply for the certificate.
Requirements: https://www.uft.org/news/new-york-state-requirements-paraprofessionals
Hope this helps you. You may get more information and a better picture by talking with several paraprofessionals in different levels: elementary, middle, and high school, and years as a paraprofessional. Have you talked with those in your school? Consider connecting with the paraprofessionals around you.
Updated
Connie’s Answer
I began my professional journey as a paraprofessional. If you're considering a career that involves paraprofessionals, this could be an excellent starting point for you. Once you're working in the field, you'll have the opportunity to further your education and expand your skills within your chosen area.
Hey Connie, can you say more on how you became a paraprofessional? What classes did you take?
Gurpreet Lally, Admin