Big Law Attorneys Share Why Mentoring Matters: Part Six

In the sixth part of our “Why Mentoring Matters” series, two Big Law attorneys—a partner in the nation’s capital and a partner in Costa Mesa, Calif.—write about their personal journeys and why mentoring or being mentored has played an important and positive role in their careers.

WilmerHale partner Kirk J. Nahra, in Washington, D.C., says mentoring is a great way to pay it forward. He explains how he got involved later in life when he was a senior, “meaning old,” partner with children in high school and college. He notes the similarities with parenting and mentoring, with both being rewarding and challenging at the same time. His best advice for mentees is “don’t be shy.” Mentors sign up “because we want to help. It’s not a bother,” he says.

Meanwhile, Latham & Watkins partner Hilary Shalla Strong, in Costa Mesa, Calif., shares how she learned early in her career that one of the most meaningful acts a mentor can perform is expressing confidence in their mentees. She says she needed that confidence to get over her feelings of imposter syndrome after moving from an Iowa farm to Los Angeles for her job at Latham. She recalls how her mentors lifted her up with humor and displays of trust.

Click on the attorneys’ names below to read their stories of how being a mentor, or receiving that kind of coaching or guidance, has played a significant role in their lives and careers.

• WilmerHale Partner Kirk J. Nahra (Washinton, D.C.)
• Latham & Watkins Partner Hilary Shalla Strong (Costa Mesa, Calif.)

Then, join us again next week for our seventh installment of “Why Mentoring Matters.”