CSF Scholars gain valuable insights into legal professions at Williams Kastner

Eighteen CSF Scholars from Mount Vernon High School and Marysville Pilchuck High School recently embarked on a career exploration visit to Williams Kastner law firm in downtown Seattle. Students had the opportunity to hear from staff representing a diverse range of roles, including attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, office controllers and HR managers. They also made a special connection with a Marysville Pilchuck High School graduate who is now a successful attorney at the firm.

One of the highlights of the visit was a game called, “Who Wants to Be in the Legal Field?”—a clever twist on the game show, “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” The students were divided into teams and had the opportunity to use the participating attorneys as their “lifelines,” making the experience not only educational but also interactive. 

“The game was spectacular! I had a lot of fun touring the firm and working with a team,” expressed CSF Scholar JJ.

CSF Scholars benefit from career-connected learning in multiple ways. Exploring careers offers students an opportunity to envision themselves in specific jobs and gives them a jump-start on building their network. Engaging one-on-one with professionals in fields of interest, or even sitting at a huge conference table for the first time, gives students a (literal) seat at the table and makes the experience even more authentic.

CSF Scholar Gabriel reflected on the day: “This was a great experience. Many people have a potential interest in a job field and have to take a gamble—wondering if they made the right choice. I got to ask questions and experience a small part of my potential future, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

When asked about their day at the firm, the students were unanimous in their praise, giving the career exploration visit to Williams Kastner a resounding 5-star score. Some even went as far as to say, “Can we give it a 6?” This overwhelmingly positive feedback is a testament to the value and impact of such career exploration visits.

Special thanks to Kaitlin Jackson and Chad Severance from Williams Kastner, who organized the visit for CSF Scholars.