November 07, 2022

An Insider's Guide to Law Firm Land: Tales on How to Become a Happy and Successful LawyerOn November 7, 2022, Catholic Law's Law and Technology Institute and the Office of Career and Professional Development sponsored a lecture featuring Scott Watkins. Watkins spoke to law students about the transition from law student to working in a law firm. During his talk he covered several aspects of his book, An Insider's Guide to Law Firm Land: Tales on How to Become a Happy and Successful Lawyer, which revolved around how to successfully integrate into law firms. Watkins explored the unique economic drivers of law firms and how they shape what law firms want from the Associates. He also discussed how to hit the ground running on your first day, direct your career in the direction you want, and avoid pitfalls as you move forward. Following the talk, Watkins remained to answer questions and talk further with students.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Watkins earned a degree in Electrical Engineering from Columbia University and a law degree from George Washington University. He has since held the positions of Law Clerk, Summer Associate, Associate, Special Counsel, Of Counsel, Partner, and Shareholder. In 2010 Watkins went through a transformational moment at a retreat in the Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia that focused on mindfulness and spirituality rooted in Eastern cultures. He discovered a joy in being of service to others, a personal sense of satisfaction above and beyond winning any case or taking home a bonus check.