TJSL Students to be Summer Associates at Alverson Taylor Mortensen & Sanders
May 22, 2014
Shanly Hopkins 3L and Mahna Pourshaban 3L will be summer associates at Alverson Taylor Mortensen & Sanders in Las Vegas, NV. The firm practices general civil litigation, medical malpractice, construction defect, and numerous other specialties.
Ms. Hopkins is looking forward to her summer in Las Vegas and she is “excited about the opportunity to practice in many different areas of law and take the things I learned in class and apply them in practice.” She also believes that this summer will enable her to make use of her previous experience in real estate and learn more about core issues in that field. Ms. Pourshaban is similarly enthused by the breadth of the practices at the firm and likes “prospects of being exposed to business litigation and transactional work.” She has a passion for business and a variety of business experience ranging from her studies in college and helping her mother start a successful business.
Both Ms. Hopkins and Ms. Pourshaban obtained this position through the fall recruiting program at Thomas Jefferson School of Law. Ms. Hopkins stated, “career services provided me with the opportunity to apply at Alverson Taylor through the OCI program on Symplicity. Mr. Randy Reliford in Career Services helped me edit my cover letter and resume reflecting the employer’s needs. I was also able to mock interview with him and get feedback on how to get my skills across during the interview. He also encouraged me to look at other locations for my work experience.” According to Ms. Pourshaban, “Ms. Beverly Bracker is the pivotal reason for my success in obtaining this summer associate position. From beginning to review my resume to helping me prep for the second interview, Ms. Bracker has supported me every step of the way. An alumni of TJSL who had previously worked for Alverson Taylor gave me an inside scope on the law firm as well. He instantly responded to my email, and was willing to help in any way possible. Big thanks to Beverly Bracker and the alum for helping me secure this amazing opportunity!”
Ms. Hopkins’ job search was successful, in part because she thought broad about applying to other jurisdictions where she would like to work. She has good practical advice for students on how to successfully approach the job search process. “I would tell students looking for internships to take advantage of the opportunities made available through the Career Services Office and approach things with an open mind. Thomas Jefferson provides many resources to connect students with attorneys. I would also say that networking in the community is very important. There are several bar organizations within San Diego County that welcome law students at their events. Get involved and take on leadership roles so that you understand what lawyers are looking for in new hires.”
Ms. Pourshaban has great advice for job seekers. “It is vitally important to explore any and all options regardless of the geographical area. Network as much as humanly possible, and prep for each and every interview. There will be hard times, and you might get a number of rejections but just remember to stay focused, keep your head up, and stay determined to reach your goals.”
Ms. Hopkins and Ms. Pourshaban followed their passions for business, and thought broadly about their job search. Undoubtedly, they will learn a lot this upcoming summer. TJSL has had several alumni work at this firm. Ms. Hopkins and Ms. Pourshaban will be in good company.