Currently resides in: Darien, Ill.
Position: Freelancer
Member since: 1994
Graduated from: MacCormac Jr. College
Theory: It’s been so long I don’t remember.
Favorite brief:
Superintendent – supt
This is the very first brief I learned in high school. Whenever it comes up, I am immediately back in my high school classroom.
What advice or tips would you offer to new reporters?
Be on time to your assignment and in turning in your transcripts. And communicate; no one can read your mind.
Why did you decide to become a court reporter?
I realized I really like working with my hands.
How did you learn about the career?
I went to a vocational high school and machine steno was my major.
What surprised you about your career and why?
My longevity and the technological changes. After 40-plus years, starting with typewriters and carbon paper to computers and realtime, I have managed to stay in and abreast of the profession, I have amazed myself that after all these years and changes, I still love court reporting and still looking forward to the future.
Do you have a favorite gadget? If so, what it is, and why do you like it?
I have two, my writer and laptop. From where I started out these two now have so many aspects to them, they seem like that great toy you get at Christmas you can’t wait to play with instead of something for work.
What book are you reading right now?
Fifty Shades of Grey. I wanted to read before it came to the theater. I haven’t finished the book and haven’t seen the movie. I’m really more of a magazine reader; I have about fourteen subscriptions.
