“I have a history of family working in criminal justice. My stepdad is a school security guard and has been a big influence on me. I’ve also always felt a strong connection to my grandmother even though she passed away before I was born. She was a correctional officer and was kind and always helping people. I’ve been told I’m a lot like her. I also spent a lot of time with my aunt and uncle growing up. My uncle was a prison deputy, and I remember as a child touching his badge and thinking that I wanted to be that person who people could come to for help. After getting my degree in criminal justice and psychology, I worked in customer service. My last job was in a billing office dealing with unhappy people. I just felt sad going to work every day. I wanted to use my degree and I love learning but I knew law school wasn’t it for me. At the suggestion of my friend’s mom, I ended up getting my paralegal certificate from Community College of Allegheny County online, and shortly after I got hired by Voce as a paralegal for Washington County Children and Youth. I love everyone I work with—they’re helpful and encouraging and happy to be around. I was born and raised in Washington County, so I also love that I’m able to give back to my community in this way. My first day on the job, one of my coworkers got a pretty tough case. When I heard the details, I thought, ‘Woah, what am I getting myself into?’ I know there are community issues—I grew up here—but it was jarring at first. It was hard but in a good way. It just solidified that this was what I was meant to do.”
Kiera, Paralegal in Washington County
We Are Voce is a series featuring the unique voices of Voce staff, highlighting the experiences, perspectives, and passions of the people who make a difference every day. This series celebrates the people and stories that bring our mission to life.
