May today mark the beginning of many new joys and accomplishments…and a continuation of all of the
good things that you have already achieved.
                                                                        ~ Unknown

Greetings All,

A new year is upon us and the SDMC Paralegal Group is ready to accomplish our goals for 2010.  Increasing membership, providing scholarships, and keeping paralegal students well informed about issues on campus and in the legal community are just a few of our goals.

 Due to the budget crisis in our state, our college has been forced to cut classes, raise tuition, and cut back on student services. These are frustrating times for many students.  For many it will take a little longer to graduate and transfer to a four-year university. All the changes have caused confusion for many. To help bring some clarity on what is going, the SDMC Paralegal Group has representatives attending associated student council meetings every Friday morning
to keep informed on student matters on campus. I will also be inviting school staff to come speak to our group.  I would like to remind all to take the time and go speak to a counselor about their education plan.
It is your own responsibility to be your best advocate.

Although there will be challenges this year, our group is motivated to help Miramar’s paralegal students.  One of the great opportunities we will have to inform our peers, is with the BRIDGING THE GAP (BTG) event.  Every year the San Diego Paralegal Association (SDPA) sponsors this legal seminar where working paralegals receive their Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) and students get the opportunity to network with paralegals, lawyers, legal vendors and other entities in the legal community. Students will sit in paralegal workshops and learn about ethics, procedures, and any changes with the law. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about employment possibilities. I am excited to announce that Miramar will be hosting this event on Saturday, February 20th, 2010. This event runs for about eight hours with breakfast and lunch included with registration fee. Details on time and scheduling of workshops are to be announced soon and will be listed on our website once provided.

I wish you all joy this year and the best of luck with your education!

Kim Cuilty
President
San Diego Miramar College Paralegal Group