December 19, 2022
We Asked Our Volunteers: Why Did You Get Involved in the YLC?
Check out the following testimonials from volunteers in the YLC! Interested in volunteering? Read the “Getting Involved” page on the YLC website and fill out the interest form.
“Why do you want to become an attorney?” I remember the time when I was in front of my laptop typing an answer to this essential law school admission question. Admission to the Bar and becoming a member of the Young Lawyers Conference (YLC) set stepping stones for me to become a young lawyer who will actualize the visions she so fervently wrote about in her admissions essay.
As a former co-chair of the YLC Children and the Law Commission, I interacted with high school students through the anti-cyberbullying initiative and published the Hampton Roads Foster Care Resource Guide, designed to assist children aging out of the foster care system so that they can better navigate their future and resources, including legal, financial, and mentorship opportunities. I also had the privilege to serve as the Young Lawyer Liaison to the VSB Family Law Section Board of the Governors, where I gained wonderful insights from experienced mentors and judges.
Volunteer involvement with the YLC not only taught me the highest ethical and professional standard as an attorney serving my clients and the community, but it also set me apart with an experience like no other—For example, I was a panelist at the 2021 VSB Annual Meeting for a CLE on “mentorship.” The YLC provides extensive opportunities to serve the community and the profession, while networking with colleagues, mentors, and judges. So, what was your response to the law school admissions essay?
–Ra Hee Jeon, Pender & Coward
“As a young lawyer from Southwest Virginia, service and networking opportunities for young lawyers are few and far between. I originally became involved with the YLC as a way to serve my community and connect with other young lawyers.
I continue my involvement because I get to be directly involved with the diverse programs that the YLC offers. These programs, such as Wills For Heroes, not only enhance the community’s awareness of the legal profession, but they also address the specific needs of the local communities within Virginia.
Being involved with the YLC has enhanced my life by providing a way to serve my state, local community, and the legal profession while also helping me to create lasting friendships with other young lawyers across the Commonwealth.”
–Dayna Bobbitt, Patrick County Commonwealth’s Attorney
“I decided to get involved in the YLC because it is a great way to expand your involvement with the greater bar and make connections with other attorneys outside of your own firm or practice group, which is particularly helpful to young attorneys beginning their careers. I also greatly enjoy the collegial and welcoming atmosphere at the YLC which helps create friendships and connections with other members of the YLC and with the greater bar. Getting involved with the YLC has been a truly rewarding experience for me and all young attorneys should consider getting involved and taking advantage of the many benefits that it has to offer.”
–Howard Bullock, Emroch & Kilduff