SE Valley Times

Jared Simmons has successfully transitioned from a student to a paralegal with the Maricopa County Attorney's Office. Initially interested in law enforcement, Simmons decided to pursue a career within the legal field, opting for an office setting. He began his educational journey at Estrella Mountain Community College, enrolling in the Administration of Justice program which offered a pathway to Northern Arizona University.

After completing his bachelor's degree, Simmons shifted focus to become a paralegal. "I saw that Rio Salado offered a Paralegal Studies program," he explained. His experience with Maricopa Community Colleges encouraged him to enroll at Rio Salado.

Simmons appreciated the support from instructors during his online classes despite preferring in-person learning. "All of Rio’s instructors were more than happy to answer any questions that I had with assignments, legal topics, and provided me with great feedback," he noted.

He identified criminal law as an area of interest during his studies and aimed for a role either in the prosecutor’s office or an immigration law firm. With help from Laura Girard, an adjunct faculty member at Rio Salado, Simmons secured an internship with the Maricopa County Attorney's Office after completing his degree.

“Thanks to my Rio professors, I am working as a paralegal for the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, in the Criminal Trial Division,” said Simmons. The internship led to full-time employment earlier than expected.

Now settled into his new role, Simmons plans on staying at MCAO until retirement. Reflecting on his education at Rio Salado, he stated: “I got a solid foundation of paralegal duties...The program also provided me with the knowledge to use legal research sites such as Westlaw.”

Simmons recommends Rio Salado for its affordability and convenience: “Rio Salado is affordable, convenient, and probably one of the best options for someone who’s working full-time.”

“At large universities, you’re a student ID number,” he added. “At a smaller community college...their goal is to have you succeed.”