Written by Lauren Rosenthal, a Moorpark College student and student worker with the Ventura County Community College District
Elek Batoczki always knew he wanted a career in law. His first job in the field was as a receptionist at a law firm, but to accomplish his goal Elek knew he had to take it a step higher. He enrolled in the paralegal studies program at Oxnard College.
“Until I attended Oxnard College, I never thought I could become as proficient in the field of being a paralegal as I do now,” said Elek, who’s currently climbing the ladder at a family law firm in Westlake Village.
A Thousand Oaks native, Elek headed to Moorpark College after graduating from high school in 2012. He initially wanted to pursue criminal justice, specifically through law enforcement. At MC, Elek earned an associate degree in criminal justice and corrections.
While working as a senior student specialist at the college, he continued his studies for another year to obtain a degree in sociology. He then transferred to Cal State Channel Islands. After some time pursuing a degree in sociology, he dropped out, realizing his talents were put to better use in the legal field.
Elek started at the Westlake Village law firm, where he was surrounded by professionals who embodied the invigorating ins and outs of the legal system. This inspired Elek to continue pushing for his dream of working in law.
As Oxnard College was close to his home, offered paralegal studies and was a part of VCCCD whose educational opportunities he previously enjoyed, Elek saw the campus as a perfect match.
Once Elek enrolled in classes at OC, he began to learn the fundamentals of being a paralegal, which reinforced his passion and helped him identify specific interests. He noted the specialized attention instructors can provide and the accommodating class schedules with regard to home and work life. Elek felt eager not only to learn in school but also to succeed in his job.
Elek earned both a certification and degree in paralegal studies from OC. Because of his accomplishments, Elek was promoted and assigned more challenging, thought-provoking work.
Elek moved to a Thousand Oaks-based firm to gain more experience in other areas of law. After a few months, he decided to return to his roots in family law. He rejoined the firm in Westlake, where he’s worked for four years. Elek plans to stay there while deciding whether his future lies in taking the bar exam or enrolling in law school. (A little-known fact is that you can take the bar exam to become an attorney without attending law school.)
“Getting a degree from Oxnard College in the field that I was working in has been great leverage in learning all the skills I am using currently at my job,” he said. “I highly encourage everyone to find some kind of work while you are obtaining your degree. You will see how the work you do in school applies to the job and will put you above the rest when it comes not only to education, but also work experience.”