Kimberley Place-Gateau
Paralegal
The Law Office of Eric Holk
09/18/2006

I feel confident that it was my enrollment at AIPS that got me my current job. I have a Diploma in Advanced Legal Studies as well, and that may have gotten me the interview, but the hands-on training I was getting at AIPS definitely helped me nail the interview. I also got a lot of help preparing for my interview from John and Michael; they both sent me material to study and prepare with.

The AIPS education is a great investment. Not only is it a great value, it is very marketable. You will learn skills that you can immediately put to use. It is a great addition to a bachelor's degree!

Janna L. Glavan
Paralegal
Best Law Offices, P.C.
09/18/2006

Even though I had several years of legal assistant experience before I started, the program has already made a difference in my career. I've been able to demonstrate my new knowledge and skills, and my boss has assigned me new and increasingly complex projects as a result. Being able to speak intelligently about different areas of the law in general and knowing where to look for additional information has been very valuable in the workplace.

AIPS has broadened my legal horizons considerably. I started the program with several years of legal assistant experience, but AIPS taught me a great deal about different areas of the law, and the research and writing skills I developed through the program have already been put to good use. AIPS has definitely given me a professional edge and I'm glad I completed the program!

Penny L. McCracken
Legal Assistant
Wilson and Lantz Law Office
07/23/2006

AIPS has been one of the best things that has taken place in my life. I learned a great deal from them. It has been an exciting challenge and a great experience. I recommend it to everyone I speak with. All of my friends are very proud of what I have accomplished in the last year. Being able to take these classes in the comfort of my own home is fantastic. No travel, parking or gasoline problems. It is the best.

Kimberly A. Christiansen
Legal Secretary
Sheridan Ross P.C.
07/16/2006

I have received significant monetary benefits in both my current and previous job. In my previous job (litigation), I was promoted and given a significant pay increase. In my current job (patent prosecution), I was allowed to change areas of law, learn new skills, and make the move with taking a cut in pay.

This program was essential in allowing me the opportunity to get my paralegal certificate. I worked crazy hours, and never was sure of the days/times I would be available for classes. This program allowed me to work full time, travel extensively and STILL obtain my certificate. A traditional program never would have worked in my case. I think AIPS is absolutely the best!!!!

Kathy Johnson
Technical Writer
Double-Take Software (formerly NSI Software)
05/16/2006

It is amazing how much I have learned in the last year. I think this program is excellent. Thank you!

Dawn Major
Loan Representative
Woodstock, GA
05/16/2006

I usually judge the quality of what I learn by how challenging I find it. This program did not disappoint me. It was tough. I gained discipline on top of knowledge. My fears of taking on an online program quickly vanished. This program is so well structured. I have never experienced this type of order in any of my college classes. The staff is prompt in responding to questions, and the instructors are there for you. Thanks so much!

Linda Kaplan Kielek
Legal Analyst
General Counsel Department, WTO
Vernon Hills, IL
04/25/2006

This program has been phenomenal for me. I have learned to think from a legal perspective, developed a new frame of reference and language, and realized that I have a strong skill set on which I can rely. In other words, I can trust myself to do a good job and to ask the right questions.

Thank you! It's been a wonderful experience. The instructors were always responsive and available. They were all also very flexible.

Cheryl Ann Booth
Contracts Paralegal
Vernon Hills, IL
04/17/2006

I must admit that I was hesitant about the thought of earning a degree online (it seemed so untraditional), but felt this was the most viable option because of my work schedule at the time and could not commit to driving HOURS away to attend classes (I'd probably miss more classes than I could attend). After a few classes...I realized it really was not much different from traditional schooling. I made "buddies" in each class...and still keep in touch with them too! I also researched quite a few programs online, and must say that Marilyn was a primary reason why I decided to choose to pursue my degree with AIPS. She was WONDERFUL and incredibly supportive to my needs. I chose to make a radical career change and was unsure at the start if I had made the right decision. In the end, I believe I made all the right decisions...especially in choosing AIPS! BOTTOM LINE...The instructors are top notch in their profession and brought out the best in me. The curriculum was very well rounded and challenging at times (especially for a lay person like me), but I persevered and learned SO MUCH!

Mary DePew
McDonald's Corporation
Administrative Assistant
Oak Brook, IL
03/28/2006

I support one lawyer, two paralegals, and various international general counsel and outside counsel with regard to corporate governance for all international companies in 118 countries, including document authentication of documents for use in other countries through Secretary of State's Office and various consulates/embassies; draft or prepare of letters, memos, e-mails for a variety of purposes; assist in obtaining signatures on various documents re corporate governance from officers and directors of all international companies, and update database regarding company, officer and director information; send requests to and coordinate responses from Latin America and Canada in-house general counsel, division presidents and controllers concerning SEC due diligence certification on a quarterly basis; occasionally coordinate arrangements for Legal Dept. members (both U.S. and international) to attend in-house seminars; and prepare agendas and coordinate schedules for visiting international attorneys/paralegals.

All I can say is that this has been a wonderful program. The amount of information that I've learned substantively has been mind-boggling, but the program has also been beneficial to me in several other areas, including organizational skills; motivation; thinking and analyzing more quickly and efficiently; and communicating in a more objective manner even when the topic is emotionally provocative or when the conversation gets intense. The DQ's were invaluable with the latter. Last, but certainly not least, the staff and instructors have been amazingly accessible, helpful and supportive. I did not expect this with an online program and was most pleasantly surprised.

Michelle Flaugh
James R. Hartke, Esq. and Rodger N. Walk, Esq.
Legal Assistant
Cincinnati, Ohio
03/19/2006

The program has enabled me to truly understand what I do for my attorneys. It has added depth to my knowledge and understanding to my job. I have been able to utilize my newly acquired research skills and have impressed my bosses. I believe I will be more marketable when and if I decide to change jobs.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the AIPS program and would recommend it to someone wishing to pursue the paralegal career. I have been able to add many skills to my "toolbox" and discover my true calling as a paralegal. Additionally, I have been able to pinpoint my interests in the types of law I like to work in and can use that as a measuring stick for future job opportunities. I couldn't be more satisfied with the experience.

Kathy Jones
Elko County
Public Guardian
Elko, Nevada
02/13/2006

I have learned so much. It has enhanced my ability in my current job to be able to conduct my office in a professional manner and benefit my clients to the utmost. Knowing I have my paralegal certificate has provided me with job security and satisfaction. I have been taught to have a strong work ethic and values. I wanted to promote a greater recognition and acceptance of my office and my employer. I am so proud to make a difference in my legal community.

My employer and supervisor have expressed that this will do nothing but enhance the Public Guardians office in the county. I have also gotten feedback from the network of professionals that I work with everday and they have expressed nothing but great benefits to my position.

AIPS offered me a variety of legal topics to study, allowing me to sample a variety of legal fields. My teachers, whom were very expericenced, were able to provide first-hand knowledge of the everyday duties of a paralegal. I send out a heart felt thank you to all of the staff and faculty that have helped me develop along the way, for they have provided both instruction and inspiration.

Danielle M. Schroeder
Cubbon & Associates
Legal Secretary
Toledo, Ohio
01/26/2006

This program was awesome! I truly enjoyed the classes, instructors and other students. I leave not only with my paralegal certificate but with friends from around the country. AIPS provided us with all of the tools necessary to understand the coursework and successfully complete the program. One of the most useful tools that AIPS provided to new students was a mentor. I want to thank my mentor, Karen Santagata, who has been the greatest source of information about the program, providing little tips, answering all of my questions and always giving me reassurance when I doubted my ability.

I leave this program confident in my abilities and look forward to advancing from a legal secretary to a paralegal.

Armento A. Kirkland
Gartmore Global Investments
Paralegal
Conshohoken, PA
01/09/2006

I have much more confidence in my work product on the job. Also, I have been able to obtain a new paralegal position as of July 18, 2005 with another mutual fund company, paying a greater salary and providing expanded paralegal responsibilities.

The attorneys at my previous job and at my current place of employment have noted the marked difference in my level of confidence as I approach various legal projects and assignments. I verbalize my thoughts much more often because of the training provided by AIPS. Although I've been performing various paralegal work since 1995, the attorneys are entrusting me with much more responsibility since I've begun taking the AIPS courses.

Participating in the paralegal certification program is the best thing that I could ever have done for myself, personally, academically and professionally! Thank You!! So Much For All Your Support!!


Valirie Monahan
Calvary Temple Worship Center
Modesto, CA
12/10/2005

What a tremendous experience this was for me. I initially started AIPS simply to obtain my paralegal certificate after working in law for over 20 years and was really only looking to get that piece of paper. Once I started the classes though, I quickly realized there was so much more to learn. Within the first month, I felt as though all the pieces of a very large puzzle were beginning to click into place, and certain aspects of the law began to become very clear. During the next twelve months, I was always challenged by my instructors and was constantly encouraged to look at a legal issue from every side in order to come to a decision on that issue. My fellow classmates always made me think and then rethink my position, and I learned almost as much from listening to them and discussing our assignments as I did from the teachers. I can't say enough about this entire experience. I would encourage anyone to go through this program. The entire faculty and staff have been nothing short of tremendous, and I want to thank you all for this tremendous opportunity.


Judy Johnston Peters
NASD
Administrative Assistant, III (Soon to be Paralegal I)
Dallas, TX
11/17/2005

One of the attorneys I work with really enjoys discussing my classes. The other one utilizes me more for paralegal work, and I think she sees the benefits more because she gives me increasingly more work.

I can't believe how fast a year can go by! This course has been very rewarding, personally and professionally. It has opened doors for me that would have otherwise remained closed.

I guess my parting words would be that you get out of AIPS what you put into it. You're given all the tools, all the texts and excellent instructors who go out of their way to be accessible to you. If you're lucky enough to be able to take advantage of an opportunity like this one, strive to make it as worthwhile as you possibly can.


Christi M. Vegas
Law Office of Janet Poe
Paralegal
Sacramento, CA
11/01/2005

My favorite classes were Legal Research and Writing, Legal Writing, Lexis Workshop and Family Law. I learned from each course and felt that all courses were valuable.

In my opinion, Janna was my toughest instructor; however, I feel that I learned the most from her and she inspired me to do my best. I believe she was my instructor four times and two of the four (Family law and ADR) I actually received a "Certificate of Distinction."

I would love to speak with prospective students regarding AIPS. It was one of the best choices I have made and wish that I would have done so a long time ago.

I just wanted to say thank you to Doreen Fink, John Shaheen and Annie for all of the support and help throughout the course. My first contact was Doreen and she was wonderful, I felt like I actually knew her my whole life. I can't say enough wonderful things about her. She actually held my hand and was WONDERFUL. John was also wonderful as I called him many times panicking. He never acted irritated or put out (even when he was on vacation). I really appreciated that. Annie....last year when I had my surgery was my first contact with you and again, a very pleasant experience. I would like to thank each of you for all of your help and support. Last but not least, I would like to thank Janna for being tough on me and inspiring me to do my best. THANKS AGAIN!!! AIPS was a great experience.


Lisa M. Gentri
Bevan and Associates
Settlement Paralegal
Northfield, Ohio
10/18/2005

Today I was given a raise and promotion. I can't say that it wouldn't have happened anyway, but the temp agency that originally got me the job for a few weeks certainly would not have hired me without this schooling. The temp agency dealt with legal staff only. As it was, it was hard to even get in the door. I ended up in the file room but now I am the docket coordinator and the settlement paralegal (as of Monday!)

...As an "older" student, I was scared half out of my whits that I would not be hired. But I feel much more confident now about making a living in this field. My wage is not where I want it to be, and I may look elsewhere as time goes on, but the experience is absolutely something I must have, and the certificate really boosts the hiring power!

...Having the ability to start a new career because of the online opportunity given to me made all the difference in the world. I could not go back to a school building for many reasons. And now, thanks to technology, I don't have to! I found it very easy to stay in contact with the instructors, and never had a problem when I needed extra help. It was a great experience and I am grateful!


Aimee Buckley
Naperville, IL
Graduating 10/30/05
10/18/2005

Going into the AIPS program I was incredibly excited, yet unsure about the quality of education. After my first class, I knew I had nothing to worry about. I am amazed at how much information is put into each four week class. So much valuable information, in fact, that there is no way you could not learn something! I cannot say enough about how wonderful the program is, how diverse the curriculum is, and how fabulous the instructors and staff are at AIPS. My experience has been 100% positive and I am so glad I chose this program. I think about how I thought about going to a local college to take a 12 week course. I cannot imagine that such a program could even compare to what I received through AIPS. Thank you AIPS for allowing me to be a proud member of your student body.

Karen Eastburn
The Law Office of Edward F. Wallace, PC
Legal Assistant
Westford, MA
AIPS September, 2005 Graduate
09/21/2005

I have greatly enjoyed the program at AIPS. It is definitely a challenge and I believe you get out of it what you put into it. If you work hard, contribute to the discussion, ask questions, and continually strive to do a great job, you will greatly benefit from the program. The instructors are very knowledgeable and expend a lot of effort to answer every question and make each student feel at ease. I know that what I have learned will serve me well.

Heather R. Landon
Critchfield, Critchfield & Johnston, Ltd.
Probate Paralegal
Wooster, OH
AIPS August, 2005 Graduate
09/10/2005

I started AIPS in July of 2004. In September of 2004, I accepted a position as a Probate Paralegal. I was hired to replace the firms retiring paralegal who had been with the firm for 30+ years. Although I already had a working history with Trust and Estate area, I believe it was a huge plus on my side to be able to tell them I was already enrolled in paralegal school. And I was able to WOW them with my knowledge several times over the last year. : )

I feel the courses gave me a very well rounded overview of the legal profession. My career has been in Trusts and Estates for the past 8 - 9 years, yet in each class, I could find ways that related the class to my work.

My supervisor was always very impressed with the curriculum. He said "You are being required to do in one month, what I did in 12 weeks." And he was often times stumped by my questions. Which I took to be a compliment toward the curriculum that he wasn't able to just spit out the correct response. It made him think too. And he's already done with school!!!!

A huge THANK YOU to AIPS. The knowledge I gained over the last year has given me an immense amount of confidence in my work. Taking the AIPS classes makes avoiding the UPL even harder. When someone asks a question, I know that I KNOW the answer. I have to refrain from answering. : ) My favorite is when I'm having a discussion with one of the attorneys at work and I get to correct them! Thank you again!

Susan K. Biro
AIPS August, 2005 Graduate
09/10/2005

Not only have I learned about law, but from the staff and instructors I have learned more about compassion, caring about my fellow man, understanding, listening, and fairness. I couldn't have gotten this kind of education anywhere else, but AIPS! Thank you one and all. Some of you are very special and you know who you are.

Dispute Resolution was my favorite along with Family Law. I can't say Civil Litigation was my least favorite, but it was my most difficult. I will never be a litigator and I know it, but maybe a mediator.

I can't name my favorite instructor, because each and every instructor I've had has been exceptional. They've been compassionate, caring, understanding and so much more. I haven't the words to tell each and every one of them how much I've appreciated them and although they'll say they didn't do anything special, they treated me as though I was special and I couldn't have gotten that anywhere other than AIPS!

Marisol Lugo
Jennison Associates
Legal Assistant
New York, NY
AIPS August, 2005 Graduate
09/10/2005

Due to AIPS I have now taken on more of a paralegal role in my current job.

I found the Lexis course and the Legal Writing and Research course most valuable. I don't think that I found any course to be less valuable. I think that this curriculum pretty much covered everything.

My most effective and favorite instructor was Randy Carroll. I have learned a great deal from him and have enjoyed his many stories both about his personal life as well as his professional life as well.

I would just like to say thank you for providing such a challenging and fun program. I was a little hesitant about applying to an internet based program due to the fact that I didn't think it would be challenging enough but I have found it to be alot more extensive than attending a regular classroom environment. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I will actually miss AIPS.

Kristie Yvonne Baker
Department of Community Corrections
Probation/Parole Officer II
Little Rock, Arkansas
AIPS August, 2005 Graduate
09/10/2005

This was my on-line educational experience. I, as well as other students entered it with fear. That didn't last long at all. Everyone was so helpful and they showed such concern and dedication in making sure that everything was a smooth ride. This will be a life long experience that just flew by (I guess time does really fly when you're having fun). Thanks to all of the directors and instructors, and last but not least keep making a wonderful difference in the lives of so many people.............

Barbara Jean Bobeck Amidon
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Biologist - Endangered Species
Portland, Oregon
AIPS August, 2005 Graduate
08/10/2005

This program has changed my life for the better. I knew from the first course that this was right for me, and I have not changed my mind on that. I have come alive intellectually and look at the world with a much different perspective. I have developed my analytical thinking skills and feel much more confident in my conversations and offering my opinions to my peers. I am 50 years old and excited about starting a new career, so no one should think it is too late to change their life!!

I really have three favorite classes but the class that stands out in my mind is Estates and Trusts for two reasons: one, because I am really interested in the topic; and, two, I benefitted so much from my teacher's frequent advice and encouragement, his use of so many cases to understand the concepts, and his managing to keep the class on track.

I am complimented frequently by my managers for my ability to analyze issues and being methodical in the way I lay out problems and management options. My AIPS training has definitely enhanced my skills in those areas. They are happy that I have taken responsibility for retraining myself because we are in a downsizing situation, and I hear that they are using me as a model for people who are stuck in their careers, or are reluctant to take charge of their future.

I am a biologist working with Endangered Species issues. I collaborate with other federal, state and local agencies and private landowners to create Conservation Agreements which focus on the positive actions we can implement to help prevent species from becoming listed as Threatened or Endangered.

I would tell anyone that if they are serious about entering the paralegal field, this is the program that will help them attain their goals. Working full-time and raising a son is demanding enough, and it was a huge relief to know I could come home and work all evening and weekends rather than drive across the city and attend classes on campus. Each instructor has their own personality and style, and can provide a wealth of background information to enliven the course. I can honestly say that I do not feel like I wasted one dime on this program, on the contrary, it has allowed me to explore an area I have always wanted to pursue. I sincerely feel very lucky to have found AIPS!

Richard Jack
The Legal Aid Society
Civil Practice Office Manager
Brooklyn, NY
AIPS June, 2005 Graduate
06/26/2005

This certificate will be a great bargaining chip when I decide to move on from The legal Aid Society and will help me to make a salary commensurate with my experience.

I found value in every course and can't really say one was more valuable than the other. The curriculum was well rounded and has given me an opportunity to not just jump into any paralegal position , but to chose a law firm which practice interests me.

I mentioned to my Attorney- in-Charge that I was taking the paralegal course to make myself more marketable in the event of a layoff, or if the organization went bankrupt, which was a very good possibility at the time that I enrolled. Since that time I was promoted to the position of Office manager of the Civil Division in Brooklyn, NY. It involves more money and more responsibility. In fact I now supervise all of the paralegals and investigators. The fact that I was an investigator and have taken this paralegal course, I think, makes me a better supervisor.

All of the instructors were effective and knew their stuff. It would be unfair to rate one better than the other. Rachele was my favorite I suppose because I had the most courses with her. Cedric made sure that I was thorough, he makes sure you know what your talking about and his grading reflects this.

All I can say is that this was a great experience for me. I wish that distance learning existed 20 years ago I would have had my doctorate by now.

Angela Peterson
Berbee Information Networks
Corporation Project Assistant
Madison, Wisconsin
AIPS June, 2005 Graduate
06/26/05

The knowledge I have gained from the AIPS program has been fundamental to my growth, professional and personal, and has pushed me to a new level professionally. Here I am, one year later, days after accepting a permanent position with the company I have been "temping" at for more than seven months.
I am a Project Assistant on the Corporate Initiatives Team, and, if you can believe it, I have used and still use knowledge from each course I have taken.

Who knew I would need to file through all the company's legal documents pertaining to patents and trademarks three months after taking the course! These skills affect and benefit every aspect of my work/life.

Who knew? :)

The curriculum was really the perfect combination of courses for me.

My employer really considers me an asset with the expanded skill set that I now possess. I have an email folder titled "warm fuzzies." The Human Resource Vice President has directly commented on the skills that I have learned from the AIPS program. Very, very positive!

Thank you for everything. Before I began AIPS, I was floundering and lacked overall confidence. The program provided the structure I needed and the knowledge to help me understand myself better and how to think and write more succinctly. Additionally, I am able to think more analytically; which is requisite of my new position.

I have found direction and am no longer lost on the path of life. Granted, the paths less traveled have been adventuresome!

Sean C. Thomas
Paralegal & Current Student
McGlothin Myher PLLP (effective April 18th)
Seattle, WA 98122
03/21/2005

Never let specific paralegal experience stop you from going after a position. My new employer told me after I accepted the position that they were intending to hire someone with 5 years experience, but because my core skills were so comparable, they decided I would be a better fit.

Also, networking and referrals are great. My current employer referred me to my new employer and the two firms work together on many cases.

Karen M. Cavalieri
Critchfield, Critchfield & Johnston, Ltd.
Litigation Paralegal
Wooster, Ohio
03/18/05

I really enjoyed taking this course over the past year. I am sad to see it end, but I am now looking forward to the review course for my certification. AIPS has really become a part of my life and I enjoyed learning everything that I did from the instructors as well as my classmates. I couldn't get enough of it and the months just went by too fast. It was very strange after my last class to not get a new class assignment. I wanted to do it all over again. Thanks to all the AIPS staff members and all of my fellow classmates. Good luck to all.

Sharon R. Perez, March 2005 Graduate
Don King Productions, Inc.
Contracts Manager
Deerfield Beach, FL 33441
03/14/05

I found my experience at AIPS very satisfactory and rewarding. Everyone with whom I was in contact was extremely helpful and friendly. The courses were just the right length. You didn't have time to get bored with a subject, it all went by really quickly. Just when you start settling in, it's time for the e-test and e-review. I researched a lot of programs prior to enrolling at AIPS, none were as responsive as AIPS.

Debra A Patterson
Raymond James Financial
Paralegal Assistant
St. Petersburg, Fl 33716
AIPS Graduate
03/09/05

The classes I took at AIPS were both challenging and informative. I feel my education will open many doors to this rewarding career of law. I also feel my education was top notch, the instructors were top notch, and the knowledge I acquired will help me secure a great position.

Eileen VaGenius
Comliance Specialist
Legal Equity Residential
Current Student, started May, 2004
3/5/2005

Hi Everyone!

I wanted to share my exciting news with each of you. I am starting a new job within my company's Legal Department on Monday as a Compliance Specialist. None of this would be possible without my AIPS education. I applied for a position in our Legal Department this time last year and was told without any experience or education, I would not be hired. The company sent me to AIPS and here I am one year later. The most exciting part is that they pursued me this time!

I would like to thank each of you for your involvement in my education. I was terrified to go back to school after so many years but each of you made this a wonderful learning experience for me. My AIPS education is literally a life changing event. Thank you so much for all that you have taught me. It is bittersweet now that I am down to three more months at AIPS . . .

Liz Pheteplace
November, 2004 graduate
Administrative Assistant
6th Judicial District
Durango, CO
3/2/05

I decided to take the CLA exam when I started AIPS in 9/2003. When I signed up for the exam in the fall, I had no idea what would be happening at work. I knew our newly elected DA would be taking office, so I had an idea that I wouldn't be staying where I was, but I didn't know I would be backing up our District Court coordinator! I think my education was really part of my promotion, which I am so thankful for. I think I'm the only person on my support staff with a college degree! I used to think that didn't matter, but it is really paying off and I'm so thankful to have had the opportunity to learn through AIPS! I can read court opinions, motions, orders, etc. and actually understand them now!

Nancy Robinson
Natl Relocation Appraisal Training Specialist
Fidelity National Valuation
Milford, MA
AIPS Graduate
2/28/05

Personally I think AIPS is amazing. They are "the best" as far as response to questions and assistance. I have told several people that I get more attention at AIPS online than I received in all my campus classes. I also very much appreciate the opportunities to stay in touch with AIPS and alumni after graduation. That says alot about AIPS commitment to legal education and continuing education for paralegals.

"Thank you especially to Janice Hoover and Stephanie Brodin for not only offering assistance with my resumé and tips for interviewing, but mostly for the confidence they both stirred within me. I went into my search for a paralegal position with hesitation that I would not have a chance because I lacked "skills" and "experience." Both Stephanie and Janice showed me just how qualified I really am, and how to present myself to prospective employers. I must say, without them, I probably would not have stuck my neck out like I did! Many, many thanks to Janice, Stephanie, Janet Russeth, Rachele Conant, John Shaheen, Annie Sacks, Dorene Fink (you were so, so nice to me when I started AIPS and really made me feel welcome!) and all the instructors, faculty, and fellow students at AIPS. Here's to the first step of my new professional life! Thank you!"

"Your AIPS education is very valuable in any field. You don't need to apply specifically for paralegal positions. For example, in my first weeks on the job I had to deal with slip and falls (torts), bankruptcy, contracts, a real estate sale, evaluation of partnership documents, and estate issues. Emphasize how well you are able to communicate verbally and in writing. Also emphasize that if you don't know an answer to something that you have great capability to research."

"I finished my last course at AIPS at the end of October, and I was working November 19th. I was recommended to this firm, and another, by a friend who knew I was taking the program at AIPS. I also had two inquiries from newspaper ads to which I had responded."

"Even after being gone from AIPS for over a year, I still miss the interaction there sometimes. However, I have learned to go past my computer without "checking in." The adjustment was traumatic, and required a bit of psychological rehabilitation, but I have transitioned to normal life once more:))) My education from AIPS has been used extensively, almost every day of my life in one way or the other. The tuition for AIPS was some of the best money I have ever spent. Thanks for being there, and for maintaining a quality educational opportunity for those who are committed to learning."

"I was promoted to Legal Assistant with Bellatti Law Offices in Jacksonville, Illinois. My promotion was an internal promotion at the law firm where I've been working for the past 16 months. This firm is well over 100 years old. We have 5 attorneys on staff and have never had a paralegal on staff before. When I interviewed with them for a legal secretarial position in the summer of 2003, I came with over 10+ years of legal secretarial experience already. I loved the legal industry, but I really wanted to become a paralegal.

I accepted the position provided I could undertake and complete the paralegal training with AIPS; the firm would financially assist me with the tuition; and upon completion of my certificate, be promoted into a paralegal position.

Everything went like clockwork and I graduated in November, 2004. By the end of the month, they had replaced my secretarial position and moved me into a Legal Assistant role working in estate planning and probate...my favorite field! I will remain in this role while the attorneys mentor me. When my proficiency improves, I will be promoted again to Paralegal and will have a billing rate of $50.00/hour.

I'll be honest...it took a lot of hard work, self-discipline and many late nights studying, but it was well worth it! It can't get much better than that!"

"I found a position as an Investigators Contract Assistant with ICON Clinical Research located in North Wales, Pennsaylvania. I had seen postings on Monster.com in the summer and really perked up when I saw the company was close to home. I applied through Monster and was sent to the Company web site. I applied for an Administrator position that required a paralegal background but heard nothing. I entered my profile into the company database as well as monster and when an opening came up for the Contracts Assistant position, I was notified by e-mail. I applied and was screened first by an HR Rep who thought I might be overqualified, but I assured her that I needed to gain the industry experience and finish my paralegal training and that starting out as an Assistant would benefit both me and the company.

I prayed daily for the right job to come along. Also, Stephanie Brodin was a huge help in reviewing my resume and cover letter and I would definitely recommend seeking her advice. After following her suggestions for tweaking and reformatting my resume in mid- September, I started hearing from more employers and this position was only my second interview."

?I can't find enough good things to say about AIPS computer distance learning program! The faculty and staff were terrific. If there was a computer related problem or other administrative concern, the staff was always helpful - ensuring a speedy resolution to any problem. No problem was too great or too small. The faculty are all practicing lawyers who are impassioned about the law and who exhibit a keen interest in sharing their knowledge and wealth of experience with the students, while preparing them for successful and productive careers. At the same time, the faculty exhibited compassion and understanding, respecting each student for his or her uniqueness. We were reminded to always have fun!!

The flexible format is ideal for busy lifestyles, allowing one to log-on at any time of day or night. The distance learning format brings together students from all parts of the country infusing the learning experience with a wealth of divergent viewpoints and experiences.?

"Hi Janet! It's great having you for an instructor again since I think we had three courses in a row together earlier this year! I recently landed my first paralegal position, which I largely consider due to my enrollment in AIPS. My current job ends Friday, 11-19 and my new one begins Monday 11-29. During the interim, I'll be going home to see family the week of Thanksgiving. I'll bring by FirstClass software CD so I can install it and participate in discussions, etc... I certainly don't anticipate a problem, but just wanted to give you the heads up.

Also, since I had Litigation with you this summer I felt compelled to read A Civil Action. What an excellent story! Harr does a great job making truth more interesting than fiction. And because of my paralegal training, I held it in even a higher personal regard. It is obvious to me now what an impact this case had on the legal environment. Thank you for introducing it to us since I believe that true comprehension is when you can see how academic concepts impact the real world."

"I can confirm that this program has made a difference. I have been chosen to start the Marketing Paralegal position in my department at McDonalds Corporation!...I have learned so much and highly recommend this program to anyone who is interested in learning about the legal area!"

"This is literally the first and only paralegal job I applied and interviewed for. Because of my past experience at CIGNA, I was a perfect candidate. However, I was very lucky that the timing worked out in that, on a whim, I happened to go online to careerbuilder.com and saw the advertisement for this job (placed by Update Legal, a legal placement agency with an office in Philadelphia). I wasn't really looking for a job at the time (though I was supposed to have been!!), but it was too appropriate to pass by."