Reading Time: 5 minutes

At QPWB, developing and maintaining a supportive work culture is key to how we operate on a day-to-day basis. We are advocates of career growth, and we demonstrate this by nurturing talent and providing legal professionals on our teams with the tools they need to thrive and grow. Our Law Clerk Program, one of our career growth initiatives, offers invaluable experience, mentorship, and guidance as law students navigate the complexities of preparing for the bar exam.

In this interview, we hear from Bridget Krysztopa, an Associate Attorney in our Chicago office, who shares her personal experience and insights into how the QPWB helped launch her legal career.

Discovering QPWB's Law Clerk Program

Bridget's journey with QPWB began with a desire to gain practical legal experience while preparing for the bar exam. As she was relocating from Milwaukee to Chicago, she sought out opportunities that would allow her to work in the legal field while studying. When she learned about QPWB's Law Clerk Program, she was immediately drawn to its focus on mentorship and career development.

"I chose to join QPWB's Law Clerk Program because they were willing to mentor me even before I had a law license," Bridget explains. "That was something huge for me."  

A Supportive Environment for Success

During her time in the Law Clerk Program, Bridget, a graduate of Marquette University Law School, found a welcoming and supportive environment that fostered her growth and development. "The managing partners were incredibly understanding and flexible with my bar exam preparation," she shares. "They assured me that they would hold my offer and allow me to start in August so I could focus on studying." 

As a national litigation firm, we understand what law students endure while preparing for the bar and getting ready to embark on a new stage of their professional careers. 

Gaining Confidence and Practical Skills

QPWB's Law Clerk Program is more than just a job; it's an immersive experience designed to prepare law students for the real world of legal practice. Bridget was entrusted with a variety of projects, including document review, drafting legal documents, and preparing initial opinion letters. "It was a really great experience to get extra mentoring while I was a law clerk," she says. "Now, as an associate, I'm expected to do those tasks on my own, but I feel well-prepared thanks to the guidance I received."  

Bridget's journey to becoming an associate attorney at QPWB highlights the power of networking and mentorship. While in Milwaukee, she recognized the importance of growing her professional network to explore opportunities in Chicago. It was during this time that she connected with a fellow law student who was currently employed at QPWB. The fellow student recommended that she cold-email the managing partner at QPWB Chicago hub, Carol Cesaretti.

Taking this advice, Ms. Krysztopa reached out to the managing partner, which ultimately led to her securing a law clerk position and, later, her first associate role. "Don't be afraid to cold email an attorney," she advises. "More likely than not, they're willing to help and give advice, which can move you forward in your career."

Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated

Bridget acknowledges that the journey to becoming a lawyer is not without its challenges. She shares her own experience of feeling overwhelmed while studying for the bar exam and preparing for her new career. "It's important to take a deep breath and just calm down for a second," she advises. "Tell yourself positive self-talk that you can get through it. You're smart, you got through law school, so that's a big step."  

Key Takeaways

• Supportive and Inclusive Environment: QPWB's Law Clerk Program fosters a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere where law clerks feel comfortable asking questions, seeking guidance, and contributing their ideas.
• Mentorship and Guidance from Experienced Attorneys: Law clerks have the opportunity to work alongside and learn from seasoned attorneys at all levels, gaining valuable insights into various areas of law and building strong professional relationships.
• Practical Experience and Skill Development: The program provides law clerks with hands-on experience in real-world legal matters, allowing them to develop essential skills in research, writing, and client communication.
• Career Development and Advancement Opportunities: QPWB is committed to helping law clerks develop the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful legal career, providing opportunities for growth and advancement within the firm.

Join the QPWB Team!

At QPWB, we are always seeking talented legal professionals to join our team. Whether you're a law clerk eager to learn, a paralegal with a passion for the law, or an associate attorney ready to take your career to the next level, we offer a supportive and collaborative environment where you can thrive. Connect with us on LinkedIn to stay updated on career opportunities and firm news.