From History student to law firm partner
When Nicole Smith started at VIU, her plan was to become a teacher. Then a casual conversation in a philosophy class resulted in change of direction and a career in law.
Now a partner at Ramsay Lampman Rhodes, Nicole credits her time at VIU with building the critical thinking, writing and work ethic that shaped her success while balancing the demands of motherhood, full-time work and her studies.
She also points to the strong support of her professors, who encouraged her to think deeply, write clearly and challenge her assumptions.
We caught up with Nicole to learn more about her journey, her time at VIU and advice for students.
How did your time at VIU shape your career path?
When I started as a history student at VIU, my plan was to complete the pre-requisites to apply for the teaching program. One day, while sitting in a philosophy course, another student told me she intended to write the LSAT. I asked her what the LSAT was and she explained it was a pre-requisite test required for entry into law school. I had not previously considered law school, but I was curious so I took out an LSAT test book from the library and signed up for the test. Without her off-hand comment, I would not have considered writing the test or becoming a lawyer.
I had some excellent professors. Professors Dr. John Hinde, Dr. Stephen Davies, Deanna Shwartz and the late Dr. Helen Brown demonstrated how the “story” of history changes depending on the narrator and that it is important to consider the experiences of those on the margins to evaluate how the society at its core functioned. We were invited to draw connections between various readings to understand the intersection of the work by different authors. Their teaching was not about memorization – the focus was on critical thinking which is so important in the practice of law.
These instructors also took time to provide me with constructive feedback, even before assignments were officially due. I attended writing workshops as well. My goal was not to just get a good grade, but to learn how to be a better writer. This focus on writing clearly and persuasively was critically important for success at law school.
What was your first job after graduation and how did you land it?
While attending VIU, I worked at the student pub as a bartender and at the Wave radio station as a morning show co-host and news reporter. I also worked part-time for Professor Stephen Davies adding content to the Canadian Letters and Images Project website.
After I graduated from VIU, I started law school at UVic. My first law-related job was in the summer between my second and third year of law school, where I was a summer articled student for Ramsay Lampman Rhodes. I returned after graduating from UVic Law and completed my articles there. I became a partner 10 years ago.
What challenges did you face when transitioning from university?
When I first attended VIU, I was already a mother and I worked more than full-time hours on top of my schooling. I had my second child while in my third or fourth year, and the instructors were kind enough to move my exams a week early to accommodate my due date. The transition from university to the workforce was probably easier for me than most, because I never left the workforce to complete my education.
What advice would you give to students who want to follow a similar career path?
I have three pieces of advice:
Be open to opportunities. Although you may have a path in mind when you start university, other opportunities may arise and be curious. Explore options.
Also, there is no substitute for hard work. My mantra is: “It’s called work for a reason.” It’s not always fun but it has to get done. There are days where your career feels exciting and rewarding, and there are other days where discipline, not motivation, gets you through.
If you’re fortunate enough to have people that help or assist you in your career, whether formally or informally, make sure you respect their work and their abilities as well. It is impossible to do good work (at volume) without support. I’ve had some amazing assistants who have become friends and I could not do my work without them (Brittany, Willow, Terrie-Ann, Rita).
Finally: volunteer. Our communities are critically short of volunteers. Find a board or an organization that you’re interested in helping and sign up. Everyone is busy, but volunteering or giving back to your community in some way is critical to a well-rounded career.
How can students make the most of their university experience to prepare for the real world?
Don’t just do the bare minimum. Treat your courses like a full-time job. If you plan to be in class, or complete assignments, within the hours of 8 am to 5 pm, you can complete almost all of your work without having to spend evenings and weekends doing it as well.
What are some common mistakes young professionals make when starting their careers?
Lacking humility. When you’re starting your career, you will rely on your colleagues to help you with a myriad of questions. Some of those colleagues may have titles that are lower than yours on a hierarchical scale. Treat everyone with respect and avoid a sense of entitlement. Also, watch what you post on social media. I always check social media before I interview or hire anyone.
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