Graduate: Shannon Smith
Shannon Smith, Law Clerk 2004
Shannon Smith (Law Clerk ’04) is now a junior partner at Partridge Smith Law Firm in Peterborough, ON. The Law Clerk program set her on a fulfilling and rewarding career path. After graduating from Fleming, Shannon worked as a Law Clerk and took online courses offered through the University of Athabasca, which had an accreditation program in partnership with Fleming. She passed her Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and enrolled in law school in 2011 at Osgoode Hall Law School.
She had made industry connections in the Peterborough community when she was a Law Clerk and when she returned after completing law school, she quickly was able to use these connections to find employment. She then completed her articles with her law partner, Steven D. Partridge, after graduating and it has since led to their partnership. We spoke with Shannon about her career journey, experience at Fleming and advice for new graduates.
What was your experience at Fleming like?
I would say that it was a very positive experience. I really enjoyed my courses and the close mentoring the teachers and professors provided. Open door policy, and accessible outside of office hours.
How did your Fleming education set you on your career path?
Studying at Fleming stimulated my desire to learn. My teachers/professors encouraged curiosity and thinking outside of the box, and practitioners who taught were able to add value in their “real world” stories and practical experiences. Learning from those whom I wished to emulate in my future career was an invaluable experience and showed me not only that what I wanted to achieve was a possibility, but that the possibilities were endless.
What values are important to you that have enabled you to become a leader?
I pride myself in being confident, having a strong ambition and motivation to succeed, and being compassionate and empathetic to the families I serve.
What advice do you have for recent graduates just starting out in their career?
Don’t give up on yourself – in anything you do. If you want to go further with your career or education – do it! There are always opportunities to upgrade and advance yourself. If you want to try a different career path – believe you can, and try it! There is no failing, just realizing where your talents are better served. Have fun – life is short, and you need to enjoy what you do, so it’s not just “work”. Don’t be shy to ask for help or more information – there is always someone with more knowledge than you and you should feel encouraged to use that to your benefit!