Brett Smith '08

Can you share with us some details of your work life?
 
I am sure the experience of becoming part of an in-house counsel group can run the gamut, but mine has been a really positive one. If you have a strong interest in a particular industry, I think it is a good career option to explore when entering the job market. I have really enjoyed the past five years at Google, and I plan on sticking around. For me, the work/life balance it offers has been great and I still have the opportunity to work on noteworthy cases and issues.
 
Participating in art and culture is important to me. So, I push myself to bring that part of me to work. For instance, with the help of our art group at Google, I have had two 'galleries' installed on campus. Running the galleries has given me the opportunity to reach out and connect with some of my favorite regional artists (Sylvia Ji, Ferris Plock, Kevin Earl Taylor), as well as allowing me to bring a part of myself to work that otherwise might not have been present.
 
Last, I would say that one thing I have been pushing myself to do more of is participate in pro bono clinics. Most of the time, it is as simple as helping people fill out paperwork, but it allows me to flex my skills beyond the day-to-day work and support a cause I care about. Most of the clinics I participated in have been immigration-related.
 
What do you enjoy in your off hours?
 
Music is and has always been really important to me. I would say it dominates my interests outside of work. Luckily, I live in a city where there are at least a couple of good shows per week so I try to attend as many as I can. I also collect Soul 45s and vintage synthesizers. Since space is at a premium in San Francisco, building both collections is at odds with the "one in; one out" policy we have in the apartment. Never take for granted all the house and apartment space you get in Las Vegas!
 
Is there a nugget of advice you would give a current Boyd Law student?
 
If I had to pick one piece of advice for those still in school, it would be to feel confident and unashamed in reaching out to chat with anyone whose job interests you. Do it early, and do it often. You would be surprised at how willing people are to share their experiences - and you never know what doors it will open.