Ms. Eriquea Ifill is a student currently completing her Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies this Fall 2023 semester! To her, the Student Spotlight represents “professionalism and achievement. It’s evolutionary for yourself to grow as a student as you come into your expected field.”
Ms. Ifill was motivated to pursue the Paralegal Studies major because she envisions herself “helping others, including family, from a legal perspective. I wanted to dive into learning every aspect of the law which being a Paralegal does.” Her most memorable experience at Plaza College was her first day in the program. “I didn’t know what to expect, but soon found myself opening up like a flower and stepping into myself during Professor Eder’s class of Psychology Development. This course allowed me to learn different scientific perspectives of how others view the world.” This semester, Ms. Ifill is interning at the Estate Planning Elder Law Group with Andrew Jaloza, Esq. She has loved her time there learning how to be a “helping hand to someone in the arena of estate planning and Medicaid planning.”
Ms. Ifill’s professors in the Paralegal Studies Program have been wonderful. “They have a keen sense when I’m concerned about something and they step in to support me. They are hands on with students and passionate. They make sure students accomplish what they want in the course.” Director Lazarus shares that, “Ms. Ifill is a highly intelligent, motivated, professional, and personable student. She is always ready to participate in class discussions and makes significant contributions to the class. Ms. Ifill is committed to succeeding as is demonstrated by her excellent academic performance. Her strong desire to learn is evidenced in all of her class projects and assignments. She is respected by faculty members, staff, and fellow students. She is an asset to Plaza College.”
Her dream job originally was to be a journalist but this was altered when she found the pathway to a paralegal degree. Eventually she wants to become a District Attorney and focus on supporting women in domestic violence situations. “I was to help women from all different cultures. I want them to know they have a voice and make them aware of their rights.” Professor McKeithan says that, “I am beyond honored to have been asked to write a quote about one of Plaza’s BEST students. Ms. Ifill is an exceptional student and always eager to learn. She comes to class prepared to learn and always does her best. I remember when she was a new student at Plaza. She came to me to ask for some assistance about a topic we were going over in our Introduction to Law class, that she was confused about. We spoke privately about the matter, and it was then that I realized how dedicated and committed she was to achieving her goal of learning all she could about the law and graduating. I was even more impressed that she actually took my advice about the topic, did her own independent learning, research, and follow-up, and ultimately excelled in the class. This speaks to who Ms. Ifill truly is-a go-getter, determined to accomplish whatever goal she sets for herself. I am honored to be a part of her journey. Ms. Ifill is most deserving of this student spotlight, because she embodies what Plaza students are all about. She is bright, tenacious, kind, caring, and will not stop until she gets the job done. I am confident that she will be even more successful than she is now, because of her commitment and dedication to hard work, and not quitting when things get tough. Congratulations Ms. Ifill! I am so proud of you. Continue to shine bright. “
When it comes to balancing responsibilities of her academics and home life, Ms. Ifill says it’s all about structure and organization. “I like to plan ahead to give me a start and finish. I recommend structuring your organization around executing your goal.”
Her favorite Fall beverage is Dunkin Donuts coffee and her favorite show to watch is a mini series on Lifetime called Small Sacrifices. She has also read the book by Ann Rule, which is a true story from the 1980’s.
