Legal Professionals Offer Westfield State Students an Inside Look at Law School and Careers in Law

WESTFIELD, Mass. – Westfield State University students considering careers in law gained firsthand insight into law school and the legal profession during the annual Pursuing a Career in Law open forum, a collaboration between the University’s  Political Science Department and alumnus Neil Phillips, ’ 74 of Dunn & Phillips a law firm with locations in Springfield and Westfield. 

Moderated by Professor Hugh Jo, the forum featured six legal professionals: Jeffrey Guiel, an attorney with David Brunelle P.C.; Yesenia Guzman, J.D., Director of JD Access at Western New England University School of Law; Judge John McKenna; attorneys Wayne Peerboom and Neil Phillips of Dunn & Phillips; and Megan Tessitore, ’19 an Assistant District Attorney in the Hampden County District Attorney's Office. 

Drawing on their varied professional experiences, panelists offered practical advice on preparing for law school, selecting a program, taking the LSAT, and developing the skills necessary to succeed in the profession. A central theme throughout the discussion was that there is no single path to becoming an attorney. 

Panelists emphasized that students need not pursue a particular undergraduate major to enter law school. Instead, they encouraged students to develop strong writing, reading, critical thinking, and communication skills. Tessitore highlighted the importance of public speaking and working effectively with people,  while Peerboom and Guiel stressed the analytical and writing skills essential to legal education and practice.  

Guzman reinforced the value of exploring, sharing her own nontraditional academic path, which included a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's degree in education and a career as a teacher. She also encouraged students to pursue subjects they enjoy while recognizing the importance of factors such as GPA and the LSAT in law school admission.

Practical experience was also a recurring recommendation. Phillips encouraged students to pursue internships and spending time observing court proceedings before committing to law school, offering an opportunity to see the profession firsthand. Tessitore similarly stressed the value of internships, drawing on her experience with the Hampden County District Attorney's Office. 

When selecting a law school, panelists advised students to think strategically about where they attend law school including location, cost, scholarship opportunities, bar passage rates, and long-term career goals.  Guzman and Mckenna noted that different institutions offer different opportunities, making it important for prospective students to consider where and how they hope to practice law.  

For students preparing for the LSAT, the panel's advice centered on preparation and persistence. Guiel emphasized for students to take practice exams seriously, simulate testing conditions, using preparation courses when helpful, and developing the discipline needed for both law school and the profession itself. 

Beyond academic preparations panelists  underscored the human side of practicing law. Guiel described law as fundamentally a "people business," while McKenna stressed the importance of kindness and respect when working with the public. Tessitore noted that the legal community is closely connected and that maintaining a strong professional reputation matters, even when attorneys find themselves on opposite sides of a case. 

The discussion also demonstrated the variety of careers available to those with law degrees. Phillips noted that opportunities extend far beyond courtroom practice and encouraged students to explore the field before deciding which direction is right for them. Peerboom, who entered law later than a traditional student reflected on the personal satisfaction that can come from addressing injustice through the legal system. 

The forum provided students with a with a realistic picture of the commitment required to pursue a legal education reinforcing that successful legal careers can emerge from different academic backgrounds, professional experiences, and personal interests including opportunities throughout Western Massachusetts and beyond.