
Marcela Vazquez
Immigration Paralegal
Bryant & Stratton College
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Leveraging nearly seven years of experience in immigration law, I provide specialized consulting services in legal document preparation, client communication, and case management. My consulting experience includes:
- USCIS Filings: Expertise in preparing and filing petitions such as Family Petitions, Citizenship Applications, Residency Renewals, DACA, and Work Permits.
- Complex Immigration Cases: Skilled in handling Asylum, FOIA, U-Visas, VAWA, SIJS, and 42B cases.
- Case Strategy: Advising clients on strategies for family reunification under current immigration laws and policies.
Collaborated with supervising attorneys to ensure seamless case admission processes, ensuring all necessary legal and procedural steps were followed for effective client representation.
- "My consulting privileges reflect my dedication to providing clients with compassionate and efficient support, helping families navigate complex immigration policies."
- "I am proud to have contributed to successful case outcomes while upholding ethical and professional standards in the legal field."
Throughout my coursework, especially in PLEG120 – Legal Ethics, I strengthened my understanding of the ethical responsibilities that guide paralegals in every setting. The assignments required me to analyze realistic scenarios involving confidentiality, conflicts of interest, unauthorized practice of law, and proper client communication. These activities helped me learn how to apply ethical rules to difficult situations and defend the correct course of action.
This outcome was also reinforced through my immigration paralegal experience, where maintaining confidentiality and avoiding the unauthorized practice of law are critical. By connecting classroom theory with real-world cases, I learned to identify potential ethical issues early and address them professionally. This has prepared me to uphold high standards of integrity, protect clients’ rights, and support attorneys effectively across different areas of law.
1. Revocable Living Trust Drafting
- Details: Drafted a comprehensive Revocable Living Trust for a hypothetical client, including provisions for modification or revocation and identification of trustee and beneficiaries.
- Skills Gained: Researching state-specific estate planning laws, applying Bluebook citation standards, and drafting clear and legally sound documents.
2. Research Proposal on Immigration Law Reform
- Details: Developed a research proposal analyzing the impact of immigration policies on family reunification. Advocated for reforms to simplify and expedite the reunification process.
- Skills Gained: Conducting legal research, analyzing diverse perspectives, and presenting evidence-based arguments.
3. Ethical Summary for Wills and Trusts
- Details: Created an ethical summary addressing paralegal responsibilities when drafting estate planning documents. Focused on ethical behavior, client confidentiality, and professional integrity.
- Skills Gained: Understanding the role of ethics in legal practice and applying ethical standards in real-world scenarios.
4. Portfolio Project: Family Reunification in Immigration
- Details: Designed a portfolio project using a Block Method outline to compare perspectives on family reunification and national security in immigration policies.
- Skills Gained: Developing a thesis, organizing complex arguments, and integrating real-world scenarios into academic work.
5. Academic Writing & Public Speaking
- Details: Delivered a 3–7-minute presentation based on research findings, including a PowerPoint presentation with voiceover, to demonstrate effective communication skills.
- Skills Gained: Improving public speaking, pronunciation, and audience engagement strategies.
- "These assignments have allowed me to develop a well-rounded understanding of legal principles, ethical considerations, and effective communication in both academic and professional settings."
- "I’m grateful for the opportunity to apply classroom learning to practical scenarios, preparing me for a dynamic career in law."
Currently enrolled in Bryant & Stratton College’s Paralegal Studies program, focusing on developing practical legal skills such as research, writing, and document preparation. The program emphasizes ethical practices and builds expertise in specialized legal areas, including Wills, Trusts, and Estates.
- Expanding knowledge in contract law, estate planning, and probate processes.
- Gaining real-world experience applicable to my role as an Immigration Paralegal.
- Building a solid academic foundation to support my future goal of becoming an immigration attorney.
- "Being part of Bryant & Stratton College has been a transformative experience, allowing me to strengthen my professional skills while preparing for greater career opportunities."
- "This program complements my nearly seven years of professional experience and is equipping me with the tools to broaden my expertise in the legal field."
- "Through this program, I’ve gained valuable insights into estate planning, probate processes, and ethical standards that directly complement my experience in immigration law."
- "I’m excited about the opportunity to broaden my career prospects and bring a versatile skill set to any legal team I join."
- "The courses have allowed me to explore new legal fields, such as contract law and estate planning, expanding my understanding of the legal profession as a whole."
Living and working in the United States since 2020, I’ve embraced a multicultural perspective that helps me connect with people from diverse backgrounds. My bilingual ability in English and Spanish allows me to serve a wide range of clients in immigration law effectively.
- "My cultural background has instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility to give back to my community and support families navigating the complexities of immigration law."
- "Being rooted in two cultures enables me to understand the challenges immigrant families face and fuels my passion for advocating on their behalf."
- Maintained a high GPA while balancing full-time work and family responsibilities.
- Developed a research portfolio advocating for immigration law reforms to simplify family reunification.
- Successfully applied academic knowledge to real-world scenarios in my paralegal role.
- "My educational journey has equipped me with a strong foundation in legal principles and ethical practices, preparing me for a dynamic career in law."
- "Pursuing a Paralegal Studies degree has enhanced my ability to serve clients effectively, and I look forward to continuing my education to achieve my goal of becoming an immigration attorney."
Skills
Legal Expertise:
- Proficient in USCIS petition filing, including Family Petitions, DACA, Citizenship Applications, Work Permits, and Residency Renewals.
- Skilled in preparing complex immigration cases such as Asylum, U-Visas, VAWA, SIJS, and Consular Processing.
Research & Writing:
- Strong legal research abilities, including analyzing statutes, case law, and procedural rules.
- Proficient in drafting legal documents such as wills, trusts, and estate plans, with adherence to Bluebook citation standards.
Client Support:
- Experienced in handling sensitive client communications, providing case updates, and resolving inquiries.
- Adept at explaining complex legal concepts to clients in an understandable way, ensuring transparency and trust.
Technical Skills:
- Proficient in legal software and tools, including [insert specific software you use, if applicable].
- Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and creating professional legal presentations.
Soft Skills:
- Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, balancing full-time work, academic responsibilities, and family life.
- Effective communicator and problem solver with a focus on client-centered service.
- "My bilingual ability and legal expertise allow me to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds and provide comprehensive support tailored to their needs."
- "I am dedicated to continuous learning and growth, ensuring I stay updated on legal trends and best practices."

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