Attorney Spotlight - Sydney Erickson

Q: Let’s start off with you telling me a bit about yourself.

S: I’m originally from the Chicago suburbs. I moved in 2020 during the pandemic to Massachusetts to begin law school at Suffolk. I completed the 3-year day program to earn my J.D. and graduated in May of 2023. 

Q: Why did you decide to become an attorney?

S: I always enjoyed reading, writing and public speaking, but knew that I wanted to do something that allowed me to utilize that type of skillset. I came from a medical family and initially thought that was the only way to make a difference and challenge myself. It was during my undergrad that I came to meet various leaders in political science and learned how law created change. During a summer reading assignment, in reading Bryan Stevenson’s book ‘Just Mercy’ I understood the depth of the legal system. It was through college internships that also allowed me to come to the realization that a career in law was what I wanted to do with my life. My ultimate goal is to make the world a better place and a career in law allows me to make an impact. 

Q: What surprised you the most about being an attorney versus law school?

S: The amount of reliance that you have on your colleagues and those you work with. In law school, there’s some aspects of collaboration, but it’s not promoted or encouraged. Everything is very much your own in law school. In the field, I’m constantly talking to colleagues and having others review my work and provide their insights. I’ve learned in being in the field that there isn’t a need to reinvent the wheel. 

Q: When did you join the firm?

S: I joined Burns & Farrey in October 2023.

Q: What is your favorite part of the job and working at Burns and Farrey?

S: The people. In my initial interviews, I was told that Burns & Farrey is very much a family law firm and a close-knit group. Personally, I connect in places where I feel accepted where I am and can contribute to the firm’s success. I truly care and want to be here and make a difference. I enjoy the energy at the firm. Everyone is very welcoming and willing to help. They give the same energy that you give. I’m able and encouraged to ask questions to my colleagues, which has allowed for a seamless integration into the family dynamic at the firm. 

Q: Who inspires you?

S: My parents. My dad went to medical school and became a pediatrician. I believe it’s one of the most selfless jobs you can have to want to help the next generation through ensuring they have the tools, resources and assistance to grow to their full capacity. This inspired me to live a life more empathetically and care about other’s needs. My mom was a nurse and became a stay-at-home mom. She sacrificed for her family. My parents inspired me to work hard and do well, as well as give back to others and ultimately provide a stable future for myself. 

Q: What passions do you have outside of your career?

S: I was a competitive athlete growing up. I’m very much into fitness, workout classes and finding new workouts. I enjoy going for walks to stay mobile and love to travel. I am also a foodie. I love trying wine and food pairings, various cuisines and visiting new restaurants. 

Q: What advice would you give to new attorneys?

S: Get comfortable with not knowing anything when you first go out into the field. When you’re a law student, you think you must know it all and get used to being the smartest person in the room if you study and apply yourself. When you’re a new attorney in the field, you are at the bottom of the totem pole, and it can be uncomfortable and intimidating at first. You need to be teachable, adaptable, and willing to ask questions if you don’t know the answer or aren’t sure.