By Cindy Vega
The Deposition Reporters Association of California (CalDRA) held its annual Student Picnic on Oct. 10 at Don Knabe Community Regional Park in Cerritos. More than 70 students and 20 volunteers attended, making the event a great success.
The day began with students getting to know one another. Court reporting school can sometimes feel isolating, so the opportunity to connect in person is an important and much-enjoyed part of the picnic.
Everything was going smoothly — until the weather had other plans. Strong winds swept through the park, followed by rain, forcing everyone to pivot quickly, break from the games, and secure supplies and pop-up canopies. There were still many laughs along the way, and a little wind and rain didn’t dampen the spirit and enthusiasm of the students.
Despite the weather, the event continued with the popular “speed dating” activity. Volunteer court reporters moved from table to table, answering students’ questions and offering advice based on their professional experience in the field. The activity allowed students an opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from working reporters in a variety of professional settings.
Students also had chances to win door prizes, and everyone received a tote bag filled with goodies. Eventually, the rain stopped and the sky cleared, allowing attendees to enjoy a lunch of sandwiches, chips, salad, and cookies.
The response from students was enthusiastic.
“I didn’t have any expectations coming in, but it was beyond anything I could have imagined,” said student Jewels Von Rabenau. “It was informative and helpful and amazing. And you did a fabulous job!”
Student Ayana Hardaway reflected on the value of making relationships and networking a priority throughout school. “This is my second year, and it helped me because I see familiar faces, so I feel comfortable, but also talking to new reporters about their journey, listening, and asking questions.”
An event like this truly takes a village. CalDRA is grateful to the selfless volunteers whose time and effort made the picnic possible. Special recognition goes to picnic chair Jaclyn Kinsbursky and co-chair Jenn Porto, who spearheaded the event and did an outstanding job bringing everyone together.
The event demonstrated the value of connecting aspiring court reporters with the professionals who understand their journey.
Cindy Vega, RDR, is the current president of Deposition Reporters Association of California. She has been a licensed reporter in California since 1984. She can be reached at cindyvegacsr@gmail.com.
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