Monday Profile: Jenny Stone

Jenny Stone is the law clerk/bailiff for Jackson County Circuit Court Judge John G. McBain and the recent winner of a $2000 Jackson County Bar Association scholarship. The Jackson County resident is a fulltime student at Thomas M. Cooley Law School, and mother of Justin and Brooke, who attend Western High School. She worked for 10 years in the pre-press department at the Jackson Citizen Patriot, and also served in the U.S. Navy. Residence: Parma Any similarities between law school and the Navy? Two things that come to mind are the importance of self-discipline and preparation. Joining the Navy was the first thing that made me realize I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. What is your idea of perfect happiness? Spending the day with my children and relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan. What's the Number One reason you want to be a lawyer? There have been stressful times in my life when I have had to turn to the experience of an attorney. I know from those experiences, both good and bad, how important it is to have someone who is competent and trustworthy to rely on. It made all the difference in the world during those times, and I hope to be able to give others piece of mind when they are in need. What is your greatest fear? Not getting a job once I finish law school! Is this a universal fear of law students today? I think this is a major concern for law students right now. The school has done a pretty good job providing resources to help in the search for a job. They have also set up a database for students to connect with attorneys in the area that may be looking for volunteers. This is a win-win for everyone. The attorney gets the extra help he/she needs without the extra expense, and the law student gets to work on building their skills. Would you leave the area if that's what it took to get a job? I don't really feel like I have a choice. I don't want to leave the area, but I do have a family to support. What's the hardest thing about being a working mother and fulltime law student? The feeling of guilt. It can be difficult to balance my time to meet all of my responsibilities and make sure I am spending enough quality time with my children. I have had to learn to let some of the little things go to make time for the real important things. Do you get enough sleep? Not really. I can remember telling my mom how tired I was after my son was born and she told me ''get used to it, You'll be tired for the next 18 years.'' Which living person do you admire most? It would definitely be my mother. She is always there to encourage me and offer words of advice without sugar-coating anything. She tells me like it is, whether I'm right or wrong. What is your most treasured possession? A pair of earrings my late grandmother gave to me. They bring me good luck. Would you rather save time or money? Definitely time! Published: Thu, Aug 16, 2012