PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Finding Jobs &
Finding Peace
Margaret Hughes Vath
Georgia State University
School of Law
I love my job. It took me a while to get here, of course.
The road was a long one, and there were a few speed-
bumps and detours along the way. But, as they say—
straight roads do not make skillful drivers. I spent
many years as a litigator practicing in a wide array
of subject areas before I found my home as a law
professor.
I know that many of you are still traveling on your
roads, wandering along your career paths, trying to
find your way home. Here, I will share with you the
advice that was shared with me.
Find something to love about the job you have.
Perhaps you are generally unhappy where you are,
or perhaps you simply do not see yourself there for
the long run. That is OK—for now.
“Straight roads do not make
skillful drivers.”
6
November 2017
Make experience and knowledge your goal. Ask for
research assignments that will broaden your knowl-
edge base; ask for writing assignments that will expand
your portfolio; shadow partners and seek feedback
on your memos and briefs.
Perhaps you are making a decent salary, but feeling
unfulfilled. That is OK—for now.
Make future freedom your goal. Throw as much money
as you can at your student loans; know that you are
investing in your freedom when you are ready to
move on to something that you may love more, but
that may pay less.
Build your resume.
Doing extracurriculars beyond your enormous billable
hour requirement is no easy feat. But, there are some
easy ways to build your resume through volunteering.
The Atlanta Bar has a wide variety of committees and
volunteer opportunities. If you have an area of great
interest or expertise, propose a CLE. If you love seeing
children smile, donate your time to the Atlanta Santa
Project. If you love acting, singing, or dancing, join
the Bard Show Committee. You can find out more
about our volunteer and committee offerings here.