Jessica Perlick, '13

Tell us about a turning point in your career.

Even though my work colleagues were wonderful, four years after graduating, I realized private law practice was not for me. So, I applied for an opening at the Nevada Attorney General’s Office in the Post-Conviction Unit. I found I could apply my existing skill set to what, at first, seemed a disparate area of law – federal habeas litigation – and now, I am a Senior Deputy Attorney General. By taking this chance, I not only fulfilled my goal of working in government service, but also achieved other goals that seemed out of reach while in private practice, including oral argument before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

What do you enjoy in your off hours?

As much as I would like to say I enjoy only non-law-related activities and entertainment, the recent availability of all OG Law & Order episodes belies that claim. When not engrossed in random viewing marathons, I enjoy going out with my friends to explore the amazing beer and food options Las Vegas has to offer. I also enjoy spending time with my dogs and traveling with my husband.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would that be?

Sometimes I take on too much. I need to remember that “No” is a complete sentence.

What advice you would give to a new colleague?

This job is nearly impossible to do without support. Many people in this profession, especially women, find themselves suffering from imposter syndrome. The best way I have found to combat that feeling of inadequacy has been to find a group of trusted friends. No matter how difficult it is to do, we make time for each other, whether to celebrate our successes or to acknowledge our failures. It’s surprising how often those experiences you view as failures look very different through someone else’s eyes. Most importantly, spending time with other people who feel the same way serves to remind you that you are not alone.