It is the start of a new semester, and for court reporting students, this means continuing their courses to become a certified shorthand reporter. An education in court reporting looks different than a typical college class. Lectures on history and memorizing important dates for pop quizzes are replaced by learning the technical skills needed for a court reporting career. The DMACC program in Newton is a wonderful program that spends ample time preparing students for the realities of court reporting in the real world. I am part of their mentor program that pairs professionals with students so we can lend a helping hand and give advice when needed.
For the court reporting students that are looking for tips to increase their skills, or are wondering what the “pros” did to make it through school, you’ve come to the right spot! The women of Susan Frye Court Reporting compiled their best tips to help give you a boost in your program!
“As competitive as the program can be, try to have a healthy competition, but don’t let it stop you from making friends with your classmates. When you’re out working, you will enjoy catching up and asking advice of each other. Also, your progress will greatly increase if you spend all your free time practicing. I know it’s cliche, and it gets old hearing it, but the time you put in practicing will pay off with passing quicker takes.” - Kaylan McCord
“Practice at a higher speed than the next test you’re planning to take.” - Julie McCurnin
“Be diligent to set enough time aside each day for writing practice. Be consistent, and don't cut that time short no matter what. Also, get involved in professional groups as much as you can or local groups that will help you grow as a reporter.” - Stacey Karsjen
Melissa Burns was full of tips (and a fun story!) to use in your studies as well as when you begin your career.
“Speaking from experience, I Googled every way I could think of trying to find the spelling for a Dr. Znou. Finally, after an SOS to my coworkers for help, I was informed it was actually a business called Doctors Now (thank you, Sonya!). If there is anything you are unsure of when you hear it in a deposition or in the courtroom, ask the attorneys or the witness for help. I make a note as I'm writing the testimony of anything I want to be sure and check at a break. Don't be embarrassed to ask - everyone involved wants you to get it right rather than wrong.”
“Never forget that at all times we should be impartial and fair to all involved in any proceeding we are asked to report. One party to a lawsuit should not have any advantage over another due to any action on the part of the court reporter. For example, if you are asked by an attorney to prepare a rough draft in advance of the final transcript, all other parties involved should be informed that a rough has been ordered if they would like to purchase one.”
“Be selective on any suggestions you might feel you should make in terms of how the record is being made. You may know that Attorney A is referring to "this" and "that" when looking at an exhibit and that the transcript will make no sense to someone reading it later, but Attorney B may, in fact, be well aware of this and is happy about the fact that the testimony will not be clear. It's not the court reporter's place to get involved in this kind of a situation.”
We all agreed that practice, and more practice makes...nearly perfect. Practicing will pay off in the long run. When you’re hired for your first job, all those late nights with your steno machine will suddenly be worth it!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your instructors, a mentor, or classmates. This program is designed to support you as a court reporting student. Utilize the resources available!
