The Power of Boyd Connections
Alumna Helps Pave the Way for a Student’s Success
Written By: Tommy Gugino
As part of the Career Development Office’s (CDO) Lunch with a Law Firm series, Paola Armeni (’03), Member in Charge at Clark Hill and former President of the State Bar of Nevada, hosted Boyd Law students for lunch. One student attendee, Hunter Patterson, took her up on an offer she extends to all students: reach out if you'd like to talk more.
Hunter did just that.
They met for coffee, where they discussed Hunter’s interests in litigation, judicial clerkships, and his ties to Los Angeles. Paola encouraged him to research attorneys in her firm’s LA office and identify those whose work aligned with his goals. He did the homework—then Paola made the introductions. Shortly after, Hunter interviewed and was offered a summer associate position at Clark Hill’s Los Angeles office.
“Paola’s mentorship is invaluable,” Hunter said. “She helped me think strategically about my future. Attorneys don’t do this for recognition—they do it because they know the power of paying it forward. Without that second conversation, my summer would’ve looked very different.”
Paola, who participates in the CDO lunch series frequently, emphasizes the importance of initiative and follow-through. “What stood out was that Hunter took the initiative to reach out after the lunch—and then followed through,” she said. “I asked him to do some research, and he did. From there, I connected him with people in our LA office, and he earned the opportunity.”
As an engaged member of Nevada’s legal community, Paola sees mentorship as an extension of her commitment to Boyd. “I’m a proud alumna. I consider myself an advocate for every Boyd student, and I’ll do what I can to help open doors.”
Hunter’s advice to fellow students? “Get over the nerves. Send the email. Book the coffee meeting. If they give you their contact info, they want to help. I promise—it will be worth it.”