Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security

Karina DeAlva

Paralegal Studies

High School: L. C. Bird (’07)

Career & Technical Ed. Program Studied:Legal Systems Administration (at Chesterfield Technical Center)

Additional Studies/Training:Internships, Currently pursuing paralegal studies at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College

A Case for CTE

Karina DeAlva wanted a career where she could make a difference. So as a 10th-grader, she took an introductory law class that provided an overview of the field. By 12th grade, she had witnessed the system in action firsthand as an intern.

“I worked at the Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court Clerk’s office,” Karina explains. “I was actually able to get to know judges themselves...learned to look up files, became aware of their systems, and learned how to prepare certain documents for the Clerk’s use in court.”

In that environment, she saw the value of her high school studies. “It really prepares you and molds you in how to carry yourself in a professional manner. You’re a step ahead of other kids.”