The most important success factor, I think, was maintaining a full range of visibility and involvement. I didn't merely squeeze as many billable hours into my 1400 hours/year. I also co-chaired the Recruiting Committee, served on the Opinion Committee and the Corporate Department Executive Committee, chaired the Securities Group, and founded the Women's Forum, a network that grew to include 750 of Chicago's business and professional women. I'm a big believer in the theory that value contributed, rather than time spent, is the key to a successful legal career.

Thanks for the inspiring post!

I am a 3L, planning on graduating in May and taking the bar in July. I decided to have a child while in law school - I had my son over winter break after third semester and was back in school ten days later for to start my fourth semester! It has been hard, but worth it. This is a scary time to be starting a career, and I would love a part time gig like Jodi was worked her way into. The interview and this site are so inspirational, thank you so much!

Lucie