10 Years

10 years ago, yesterday, I graduated from law school.
 
I did not have a job.
 
That's right: I did not have a job.
 
By October 2012, early in 3L year, a North Carolina judge hired me to be his clerk.
 
One month before graduation, he announced he'd leave the bench--to become the dean of a law school.
 
I still remember the moment I found out.
 
I still remember the scramble.
 
I still remember calling my dad and telling him to sit down before I told him.
 
I still remember pacing the law journal suite, wondering if I'd figure something out.
 
The day before these pictures were taken, I interviewed with the woman who would become my judge.
 
I left the interview thinking, "I wanted to not like her. I've never been to Wisconsin. But, if she offers me the job, I'm taking it."
 
So, there I was, graduating law school--after a pretty successful three years, too--jobless. 
 
10 years later, I wouldn't change much.
 
If I am good at one thing it is this: riding the wave from one opportunity to the next, wherever it takes me.
 
Not always easy, rarely glamorous, nearly always rewarding.
 
And: the ladies in these pics, still dear friends.
 
Also pictured: my parents, also attorneys. We've had highs and lows, but I know they're proud of me and that's all that matters.
 
Here's to the next 10.
 
#lawyerwellbeing #law #opportunity #change #job