Current Position: Employed with the U.S. Federal Bankruptcy Court
Prior to attending Gwynedd Mercy University, I had spent a number of years unsure of what I wanted to or what my path was. I had worked several jobs but didn't have a clear career path.
I chose GMercyU because it was very close to my house and when I started my children were just at the age where I could attend evening and night classes. I also liked the idea of a smaller campus.
I have always been intrigued by the Criminal and the Justice piece of my major. I like learning how systems work but within CJ, specifically, it is gaining the understanding of what seems to be out of balance versus the reality that all portions of the system are unable to address every aspect of the human condition.
GMercyU Experience
As a non-traditional student, it was challenging because I worked full time during the day and had to tailor my classes around evenings, nights and virtual attendance. In some instances, I was unable to take some classes I was interested in because they just weren't available.
However, my professors were accommodating and really helped me to develop a course schedule and selection that fit my life. I have to say that Dr. Patrick McGrain really stands out for me. Doc was a great advisor and really helped me work through course issues and developing ideas on creating my own path.
Shortly after I began at GMercyU, I was offered a position at the Montgomery County Courthouse. As a result my internship requirement was waived but the professional experience really enhanced my academic experience.
At the Montgomery County Courthouse, I was a Court Clerk. The clerk is responsible for all the administrative functions in the courtroom. I worked largely in the criminal and family divisions. I swore in jurors, announced verdicts in trials, impaneled jurors, created court orders, and just about anything else that went on in the courtroom.
Post-Graduation
I maintained my position at the Courthouse until April 2020 and I began a position within the United States Federal Bankruptcy Court in October 2020.
At the Federal Bankruptcy Court, my functions are more diverse. We're all working from home so it's really interesting learning a new job that way. My responsibilities include processing court bankruptcy petitions, logging notes, and keeping time in court hearings (held via Zoom for now) and assisting in quality control of documents.
One thing that was very helpful was using GMercyU's Career Services to update my resume. It can be challenging when a lot of time has passed since seeking a new position, but they were great! My hope is to also resume graduate school next year to pursue a Master of Public Administration.
Lisa Brown was the Student Speaker at GMercyU's 2018 Commencement Ceremony. Watch her speech here.
