Full Careers - which is better?

which is better?

ok i'm planning to get my paralegal certificate from one of those fast career development colleges. but someone else suggested i go to a regular two yr college instead and take the the program there. so i'm kind of confused don't know which one to choose. which would look better in a job aplication. what would you do?

Public Comments

Remember, this is only an opinion, but if I was interviewing two candidates for a job and all else being equal, I would pick then one that went to a traditional school.
The opportunities for a paralegal really depends on the specialty. The most in demand paralegals are those in the litigation field; followed by corporate paralegals who are responsible for maintaining corporate records, articles of incorporation, etc. While the "least" markeable [but the "highest" paid] paralegals are in the field of intellectual property [i.e., patents, trademarks] and immigration law. In conclusion, choose your paralegal courses accordingly, with emphasis on litigation preparation [discovery], docketing/calendaring of incoming pleadings [calendaring] and trial preparation [creating Exhibit tabs, Bajii jury instructions, etc.]. The "pro" side of a litigation paralegal is often "unlimited" overtime which can amount to a high salary range of $65,000 to $75,000 per year, while the "downside," being constantly pressured to meet a monthly client billable quota. And failing to meet that quota, often results in the paralegal's overnight dismissal. It's not a pretty picture. I just want to lay out what really happens in the real world of litigators and their relationship with subordinate paralegals. Good luck!
I laughed about the 1st response...I wouldn't be bothered to interview a grad of a "fast" paralegal program. Go to a traditional (not online) school. Yes, online or "fast" is cheaper and more convenient in the short term, but will cause you nothing but heartache...you'll be on here again 6 months after "graduation" asking why no one will hire you. The truth is harsh, but better to know now.