Most of the students we profile in our Student Spotlight are career changers. But Lila Shepard, from Southeast Iowa, is one of the exceptions. She enrolled in the court reporting program at Des Moines Area Community College right out of high school. And she learned about the career even earlier – from an internet search when she was 15 years old.
UTS | You found court reporting at younger age than most. How did you first hear about it?
LS | I first heard about it on the Labor and Statistics Bureau website, but I researched more about it on TikTok and learned a lot from reporters who post about their daily life.
UTS | When you took the NCRA A to Z® Intro to Steno Machine program was it person or online? What was that experience like?
LS | I took A to Z online and I chose the option with a weekly Zoom meeting, and I am so glad I did. Most of the work is done outside of your Zoom call and then there were three teachers who reviewed and did a lot of Q&A to help us understand more.
UTS | What do you love about stenography?
LS | I love the challenge and I like to push myself. I really love that this is a constant goal to reach and there is always something to be achieved, and it keeps me very motivated.
UTS | Do you have a mentor?
LS | Deb Wellman has been a great mentor to me. She introduced the NCRA A to Z program and even helped set me up with a machine to borrow during that course. We have been in touch, and she has given the most honest advice and support.
UTS | Everyone has their own practice routine. What’s yours?
LS | For my practice schedule I tried to give myself an adequate break after class so I can come back to my practice motivated. I normally block a one-hour practice session and try to get three done in a day. I find that blocking those sessions really helps me get it done and stay focused.
UTS | When you tell your friends and family that you are studying to be a court reporter, what kinds of reactions do you get?
LS | Most reactions I get are positive or curious about the profession, and I try to answer questions as best I can without the experience of being a working reporter. Of course, I have gotten some negative reactions from those who doubt the profession and my choice. Regardless, I am really loving this path and have no plans to change.
UTS | What are your other hobbies – besides practicing?
LS | Although most of my time is spent with school or work, I do enjoy golfing and I have become a frequent reader.
UTS | Where do you see yourself in five years? What does your ideal career look like?
LS | Hopefully, in five years I will be a working court reporter as an official. An ideal career to would grant me experience in an official position and then eventually move towards the freelance side of court reporting.
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