FRB Hosts Career Field Trip with Girls Inc. of Long Island
As part of our commitment to giving back to our community, FRB had the pleasure of hosting a Career Field Trip for a group of Uniondale High School girls with the non-profit organization Girls Inc. of Long Island at the firm’s Long Island office. On May 17th, the girls spent the afternoon with FRB’s female staff members learning about careers in the legal industry.
The field trip began with a Career Panel, led by all the amazing women here at FRB, which served as a gateway for the girls to gain an understanding of the life of a legal professional. Each panelist shared their personal experiences and journeys, highlighting the challenges they faced and the rewards they reaped in their respective roles, and provided valuable insights into developing a professional career.
The mock "Think Like a Lawyer" exercise guided by our attorneys was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the day. To provide a taste of the legal profession, we immersed the girls in a hypothetical legal scenario that required critical analysis, problem-solving, and effective communication. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as the girls eagerly brainstormed solutions, debated strategies, and discovered the joys of working together to solve complex legal problems. FRB’s staff eagerly shared their knowledge and offered guidance, fostering a supportive environment that encouraged the girls to confidently pursue their dreams.
“Girls Inc. of Long Island was thrilled to provide these high school girls with an opportunity to explore the legal industry,” said Susan Dunbar, Program Manager at Girls Inc. of Long Island. “The girls benefitted from not only hearing the personal stories and professional journeys of women who are leaders in their field, but by participating in a simulation that mimics actual legal situations."
The girls observed the diversity of career paths within a law firm and gained a deep understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities and opportunities for career advancement. The lively discussions showcased the challenging but rewarding experiences that can be found in working at a law firm, inspiring the girls to consider the possibilities that lie within the legal field.
“The program was such a success, not just because of the women from our firm who worked so hard to put this program together, but because of the enthusiasm the girls from Uniondale High School brought to the activity,” FRB Partner Dana Walsh Sivak said. “The girls came up with brilliant arguments and presented them persuasively and eloquently. I would not be surprised if we count these girls among our colleagues in the legal profession in the future!”
The smiles and enthusiasm throughout the day were a testament to this memorable event that left a significant impact on both the girls and our staff.
"The girls enjoyed practicing their critical thinking and debate skills in a safe environment. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Falcon Rappaport & Berkman," Susan Dunbar said.
We are grateful to Girls Inc. of Long Island for partnering with us on this opportunity for the women at our firm to share their knowledge and experiences with the next generation of potential legal professionals. Together, we hope to ignite a spark of curiosity and ambition, enabling these young girls to dream big and reach their full potential in their careers.
FRB remains committed to continuing our efforts in empowering girls and fostering diversity within the legal profession, knowing that the impact we make today will shape the legal leaders of tomorrow. As part of that, we look forward to continuing a long-term partnership with Girls Inc. of Long Island.
ABOUT GIRLS INC. OF LONG ISLAND
Girls Inc. of Long Island delivers life-changing programs and unique experiences to give girls the tools they need to be strong, smart & bold. We provide school and community based programming that serves the unique needs of girls, ages 5-18, living in Suffolk and Nassau Counties. Through community partnerships, we help girls to achieve their full potential, making their future brighter. Girls Inc. of Long Island is dedicated to the advocacy of gender equity for all girls in all areas of their lives. Learn more about Girls Inc. of Long Island: https://girlsincli.org/
ABOUT GIRLS INC.
Girls Inc. inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through direct service and advocacy. We work with schools and in communities to provide the mentoring relationships, safe spaces, and evidence-based programming that are proven to help girls succeed. Girls build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead change in their lives and effect change in the world. Girls Inc. also works with and for girls to advance legislation and policies that increase opportunities for all girls. Together with partners and supporters, we are building a new generation of leaders.
Thank you to FRB’s Law Clerk Maria Hirakis for organizing the event!