Paralegals, legal assistants and individuals working in other paraprofessional capacities (referred to herein as “paraprofessionals”) play a vital role in supporting attorneys, serving clients, and ensuring the efficient functioning of law firms and legal departments across Wisconsin. Recognizing their importance and potential, this scholarship aims to support current and former paraprofessionals who have demonstrated a strong dedication to the legal profession and are aiming to advance their careers by attending law school.

Scholarship Amount: $5,000
Number of Available Scholarships: Up to 6
Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
Source: Donations to the MBA Foundation for the 2023 DEI Hackathon Program

Who is Eligible?

1. Paraprofessional Work Experience: Applicants must either be (A) presently working as a paraprofessional within the legal sector or (B) current law students who were employed as paraprofessionals prior to enrolling in law school.

2. Duration of Work Experience: Applicants must have a minimum of two (2) years of paraprofessional work experience.

3. Connection to Wisconsin: Applicant must either (A) be a current resident of the State of Wisconsin, (B) have met the work experience requirement while residing in the State of Wisconsin or (C) be attending law school in Wisconsin.

4. Undergraduate Degree: Applicant must have earned a bachelor’s degree.

5. Financial need: May be considered but will not be the sole determining factor.

How to Apply?
Each applicant must submit the following materials in a single email to paraprofessional.scholarship@gmail.com:

1. a resume highlighting applicant’s paraprofessional experience, academic achievements, and other relevant work experience.

2. relevant transcripts (undergraduate, paralegal studies, etc.).

3. a personal statement discussing applicant’s motivation to pursue a law degree.

4. a personal recommendation (encouraged but not required).

 

We look forward to supporting current and former paraprofessionals in their educational and career aspirations!

 

Funds for this scholarship are made possible by the generosity of sponsors of the 2023 DEI Hackathon.