1. Where do you currently reside?

Tampa, Florida.

2. Why did you decide to come to court reporting school?

I joined court reporting school because court reporters run in the family. It’s a prosperous career after completion of school, and I loved the wow-factor of, hey, I’m a court reporter. I did this. That’s what I was waiting for during school. It’s a very respected career.

3. What did you do before court reporting school?

I worked at a chiropractor’s office as a physical therapist assistant, and then I served/bartended my way through school.

4. What date did you start court reporting school?

June of 2009.

5. What made you choose CCR?

A relative attended CCR and had great things to say. I was also immediately on board with the staff when speaking with them during registration.

6. What are your strengths/weaknesses?

Perfectionism, professional appearances, professional personality, quick turn around on transcripts are strengths. Second guessing, thinking too hard, and managing home life and work life in the home are weaknesses. All I constantly work at and continue to improve or better.

7. What was your biggest challenge?

Throughout school time management was my biggest challenge. My work hours, a toddler running around, balancing sleep and practice time were a constant struggle for me. Time management doesn’t go away, by the way. It’s just as difficult a task as a student as it is as a working reporter. You have to find what works. I’ve been very fortunate that the agency I work with is very in tune with their reporters and are constantly helping in any way they can to help us get out that product.

8. What motivated you to complete the program?

My now four-year-old son and getting back on my own two feet to support us.

9. What advice would you give to other court reporting students?

Be honest. Instructors and staff are there to help and work with you if there’s an issue. Take a break. It’s okay to take your hands off of your machine for a day and then come back. Sometimes that break is necessary physically as well as mentally and does more good than harm rather than to constantly hack that speed. It worked for me at least.

10. Do you currently have a job? If yes, what do you do?

I’m a freelance court reporter for an agency Orange Legal.

11. How did you find your current job?

NCRA website.

12. What are your future plans? What certifications do you plan on earning?

I would love to go as far as a realtime certification.