Plaza College recently hosted Steno Stars, featuring Samantha Cipriano, a distinguished freelance court reporter and a 2021 graduate of Plaza College. The event, held virtually via Zoom, attracted over 200 attendees, offering students a valuable opportunity to learn from an experienced professional. Samantha shared her personal journey and provided candid advice on overcoming challenges and achieving success in the field.
“The beauty of this field is that you can find your own little niche—whatever fits your lifestyle.”
Samantha’s path to court reporting began in September 2017, when she decided to return to school at the age of 31. Determined to excel, she took every test available, transcribed extensively, and worked hard to address her weaknesses. Instead of allowing mistakes to discourage her, she focused on improving in areas where she struggled. Her dedication paid off—just two days after graduating, she secured her first job. Remarkably, the very next day, she became notary-certified after preparing for the New York State Notary Public exam. This additional credential enhanced her career by enabling her to swear in witnesses and notarize legal documents.
“I graduated on a Sunday, started working by Tuesday, and within a month, was earning a full paycheck.”
Her externship transitioned into a full-time freelance position, demonstrating that success in court reporting is within reach with dedication and persistence. Now a fully remote freelance court reporter, Samantha manages multiple jobs in a single day, taking full advantage of the profession’s flexibility. She continues to refine her skills, seek guidance from industry peers, and adapt to the evolving landscape of court reporting.
“One of the coolest things about court reporting is how it connects to so many different interests. If you love true crime, court reporting gives you a front-row seat to real cases, real testimonies, and the legal system in action.”
Samantha Cipriano’s story serves as a testament to the endless possibilities available to aspiring court reporters. Her experience highlights that success in this field depends on hard work, adaptability, and a lifelong commitment to learning. The success of Steno Stars reflects Plaza College’s dedication to preparing students for rewarding careers in court reporting. By sharing real-world experiences from professionals like Samantha, students gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to thrive in the industry—and the confidence to pursue their own paths to success.
