Q: Let’s start off by you telling me a bit about yourself.
V: I’m originally from Southern California. I grew up playing softball, which ultimately led me to Boise State where I played Division 1 softball as a pitcher. I knew I wanted to go to law school and Penn State was the only school towards the eastern side of the country that I applied to. It seemed to be the best fit for me, and that’s where I earned my J.D. I moved to Massachusetts in August of 2023.
Q: Why did you decide to become an attorney?
V: I always knew that I wanted to have a meaningful and impactful career. It took some time to figure out where and how that might look. I was a business major and ended up taking a business law class my junior year which piqued my interest. I ended up taking as many law classes as my school offered.
Q: What surprised you the most about being an attorney versus law school?
V: The camaraderie and opportunity to work with other attorneys. There is lots of collaboration and teamwork that goes into working on cases, and the opportunity is always there to ask other attorneys at the firm for their advice and opinions.
Q: When did you join the firm?
V: I joined Burns & Farrey in April of 2024.
Q: What is your favorite part of the job and working at Burns and Farrey?
V: The people at the firm. Everyone is very helpful and offers to help me learn as a new attorney. They have all been very welcoming. The working environment is ideal as a new attorney and the firm provides the support needed to enable me to grow as an attorney.
Q: Who inspires you?
V: My family. My parents and two older sisters have always encouraged me along the way and I’ve always looked up to them. They’ve inspired me to be the best I can be in all aspects of life.
Q: What passions do you have outside of your career?
V: Growing up as an athlete, staying active has always been important to me. I like working out, going on hikes, cooking and baking, and trying out new recipes.
Q: What advice would you give to new attorneys?
V: Stay open minded and try any assignments given to you. Be receptive and accept them, even if you’re not sure how to do them, because that’s where you learn the most. Be open to asking questions if you’re unsure. The transition from law school to the field presents new challenges, so just be open and willing to ask questions to grow professionally.