Paralegal Student Alanna Doss Finds Career Success Before Commencement
(LAKE CHARLES, La.) – SOWELA Technical Community College will celebrate the graduation of its first paralegal studies cohort this spring, marking a significant milestone in the College’s workforce training programs. Among the graduates is Alanna Doss, who has already secured full-time employment in the legal field prior to graduation.
Doss has long been interested in law. As a child, she recalls being fascinated when her grandmother served on a jury, often asking questions and following court cases. That early curiosity eventually led her to enroll in SOWELA’s Business Administration program with a concentration in paralegal studies.
“I like to help people,” said Doss. “And this career gives me a way to do that.”
Throughout her time at SOWELA, Doss says her passion for the legal field has continued to grow.
“The instructors are very supportive and explain things in a way that makes sense,” she said. “My favorite part has been the paralegal courses, especially litigation procedures.”
As part of the program, students complete an internship to gain hands-on experience in a legal setting. Doss completed her internship with Veron Bice Law Firm, where she worked on cases involving personal injury, oil and gas, and estate planning.
“They’ve been incredibly supportive and have helped me grow both professionally and personally,” said Doss. “It’s been the best place I could have started my paralegal career.”
Before graduating, Doss secured a full-time paralegal position. She currently works at her internship site in the mornings and part-time in the afternoon at the Law Office of Harold Thibodeaux. She will transition into a full-time role after completing her internship hours.
“It feels great,” she said. “Going through this program and internship has given me the opportunity to show my dedication and work ethic.”
SOWELA’s Business Administration program with a concentration in paralegal studies prepares students for careers in legal offices as paralegals or office managers. The program includes coursework in legal research, writing, and law office technology, along with an internship and preparation to become a Louisiana Notary.
As part of SOWELA’s first graduating paralegal class, Doss represents the success and workforce readiness the program is designed to deliver.
SOWELA will hold its 63rd Commencement ceremony on Tuesday, May 19, at 2 p.m. at the Lake Charles Event Center. The College will award degrees and diplomas to more than 350 graduates.
The ceremony is open to the public. For more information about Commencement, contact SOWELA at (337) 421-6550 or email graduationinfo@sowela.edu. To learn more about the paralegal program, visit www.sowela.edu/paralegal.