Sydney Goodhart

“Live with Purpose.”

Major: Criminal Justice/Legal Studies
Hometown: San Jose, California
Class: Senior
Program Position/Job Title: Director of the Worker’s Rights Program

How did you first get connected with the Community Legal Information Center (CLIC)?
I got started with CLIC last January. I interned with the Workers’ Rights Program (WRP), and fell so in love with it that I decided to apply to become a director last May.

How would you describe your role as the Worker’s Rights Program Director at CLIC?
I am encouraged to be a leader and the face of the WRP program. I hire interns who look to me for guidance, and I aspire to be a positive role model for them. I not only help clients, but I promote the organization as a whole by holding outreach events and running statistics each month.

What does working at CLIC do for you personally, professionally, or academically?
Working at CLIC has opened so many doors for me. I have met a variety of the best students on campus and built positive relationships. This program has also helped me prepare for law school and given me the skills I need to succeed like communication, professionalism, and critical thinking about legal matters. Client communication is critical because we’re dealing with sensitive situations and clients for whom we may be their last resort for legal information. Maintaining a very professional office environment is important to gaining a client’s respect. Learning how to identify a client’s legal question so that we can research the appropriate government agencies and statutes is essential to effectively assisting the client. This combination of skills has also made me a more active leader within my community.

What do YOU bring to the table in your role as a Program Director at CLIC?
I always have a positive attitude. No matter what I face in my day to day routine, I do so with a smile on my face. I also never back down when faced with an obstacle; this motivates me to do my best and to succeed.

What are your career plans and how does your role with the Associated Students better prepare you for that path?
I hope to become an attorney one day. I’m still exploring employment law and criminal law, but the first step is getting into law school! Working with the Associated Students has given me a multitude of skills that will help me to flourish in this field.