Navigating Early Legal Careers: Tips for Growth, Fulfillment, and Success

The San Diego County Bar Association’s (“SDCBA”) New Lawyer Division (“NLD”)  in partnership with California Western School of Law’s Career and Professional Development Office (“CPDO”), hosted an illuminating panel discussion on November 18, 2024 titled “The San Diego Legal Market for New Grads.” This hybrid event, held at the new  SDCBA Bar Center and streamed online, offered invaluable advice for law students and recent graduates navigating the transition from law school to legal practice. 

The panel featured four distinguished California Western School of Law alumni, each representing a different facet of the legal field. The panelists— Elijah Gaglio ’18, Harrison Bodourian ’20, Claudia Salinas ’21, and Hannah Bushyeager ’23—shared their unique experiences, career lessons, and actionable strategies for success in a competitive legal market.  

Moderated by representatives from CPDO and SDCBA, the panel delved into topics such as landing dream jobs, exploring career paths, negotiating salaries, and the power of mentorship. The panelists’ stories and advice painted a multifaceted picture of what it takes to thrive as a new lawyer.  

Elijah Gaglio, an associate attorney at Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP, provided practical advice on career advancement and salary negotiations. “Know when to ask for more money,” he urged, encouraging attendees to recognize their own value and contributions. Gaglio stressed the importance of self-assessment—identifying when you’ve taken on more responsibilities or achieved significant milestones—and using this as leverage to advocate for raises or promotions. 

Equally significant was his advice to “make yourself indispensable.” Gaglio explained that demonstrating commitment and excellence not only ensures job security but also gives young lawyers the confidence to pursue their professional goals assertively. 

As the founding attorney of Mission Law Group, APC, Harrison Bodourian offered a different perspective, focusing on the often-overwhelming job search process. “Take a breath, everything will be ok,” he reassured attendees. Reflecting on his own experiences, Bodourian shared a humorous but meaningful story about enlisting his fiancée’s help in writing a cover letter. Struggling to articulate his strengths, he turned to someone who knew him well, resulting in a compelling and authentic letter that helped him secure career-changing opportunities. His takeaway: “If you ever need help writing a cover letter, ask someone who loves you to write a draft for you.”

Bodourian also highlighted the importance of self-belief and persistence, reminding attendees that temporary setbacks often pave the way for long-term growth.  

Claudia Salinas, now a staff attorney at The Innocence Center, emphasized the critical role of reputation in the legal profession. “Your reputation is your social currency,” she said, recounting how her strong professional network supported her during a brief career gap. Salinas shared how colleagues and peers reached out to her on LinkedIn, offering opportunities even before she began job-hunting again. This experience underscored her belief in maintaining relationships and fostering goodwill throughout one’s career.  

Salinas also reflected on her decision to pursue non-profit work, acknowledging that while it may not be the highest-paying path, it offers immense personal fulfillment. Her passion for innocence work has led her to a role that aligns deeply with her values, making it feel less like work and more like a calling. Additionally, the absence of billable hours in her field allows for a healthier work-life balance, a benefit she greatly appreciates.

Recent graduate Hannah Bushyeager, now an associate attorney at Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo, shared a powerful message about pursuing fulfillment in one’s career. “Don’t be afraid to switch up your career if you’re finding that you aren’t fulfilled,” she advised, recounting her own pivot from a district attorney role to education law.  

Though initially unfamiliar with her new field, Bushyeager embraced the challenge and discovered a career that aligns with her goals and values. Her story resonated with many attendees, showcasing the rewards of taking risks and stepping outside one’s comfort zone.  

Throughout the evening, common themes emerged: the value of mentorship, the importance of adaptability, and the need for intentional career planning. Panelists encouraged attendees to seek mentors who inspire and guide them, emphasizing that mentorship can be a powerful catalyst for professional growth.  

Networking was also a key focus. The panelists highlighted platforms like LinkedIn and social media as essential tools for building connections and uncovering opportunities in today’s competitive job market.  

Adaptability, meanwhile, was framed as a critical skill for new lawyers. Whether it’s navigating unexpected career changes, exploring unfamiliar practice areas, or negotiating raises, the panelists demonstrated that flexibility and resilience are essential for long-term success.  

The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, during which attendees sought advice on topics ranging from work-life balance to career transitions. The panelists’ candid responses and actionable tips left participants feeling empowered and equipped to tackle the challenges ahead.  

This collaborative effort between CPDO and the SDCBA’s New Lawyer Division not only celebrated the success of California Western alumni, but also reinforced the strength of San Diego’s legal community. Events like this provide a valuable platform for aspiring lawyers to connect, learn, and envision their future.  

For more information about the panelists:  

– Elijah Gaglio – [Lewis Brisbois](https://lewisbrisbois.com/attorneys/gaglio-elijah) | [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijah-gaglio-079247161/)  

– Harrison Bodourian – [Mission Law Group](https://www.missionlg.com/) | [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/h-b/) 

– Claudia Salinas – [The Innocence Center](https://theinnocencecenter.org/) | [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiaisalinasesq/)  

– Hannah Bushyeager – [AALRR](https://www.aalrr.com/attorneys-hannah_s_bushyeager) | [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahbushyeager/)  

As the legal profession continues to evolve, events like “The San Diego Legal Market for New Grads” serve as a beacon of inspiration and a reminder of the importance of community, mentorship, and adaptability.