PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

What does this committee do for you?

Throughout the year, the PDC organizes networking events and provides resources to students to assist them in their professional development. This Committee is dedicated to providing Robson Hall students with opportunities and resources to build their professional development by hosting networking events with firms and practitioners, assisting students in preparing their resumes and cover letters, and facilitating workshops and panels throughout the school year.

Why should you join this awesome committee?

An individual who joins this Committee will be able to engage with other professionally motivated individuals and will be encouraged to brainstorm and create opportunities to enhance students’ professional development. Committee members are also responsible for organizing core Robson Hall networking events such as the Law Banquet and the Small Firm Wine & Cheese.

PDC resources:

1. Information Sessions

Throughout the year PDC, in conjunction with the Career Development Office (CDO), offers information sessions on upcoming recruits. These will be announced via email, Facebook and on school calendars.

2. Recruit Materials

The PDC and the CDO are creating materials to assist students in the recruitment process. A link will be posted here once they become available.

PDC events:

1. The Law Banquet

The Law Banquet is a formal networking dinner with the biggest law firms in Winnipeg. Students will get to sit with one of the firms of their choice to network with practicing lawyers, all while enjoying a three-course meal. This event is available for all years.

2. The Small Firm Wine & Cheese

The Small Firm Wine & Cheese is a semi-formal soiree where students can network with lawyers from small and medium firms and in-house counsel over drinks and appetizers. This event is available for all years.

3. Panels and Small Events

These events are still in the works, but some notable panels and smaller events this year include: LinkedIn Workshop, Articling Student Panel, Out-of-Town Panel, and a Small Firm Meet and Greet.

Committee Chairs

  • Jeremy Tran

    Email Jeremy

    My name is Jeremy (he/him), and I am currently a third year at Robson Hall. As one of the co-chairs of the Professional Development Committee, I help oversee networking events and provide resources to students for their professional development. As a committee member last year, I helped organize and plan the Robson Hall Law Banquet and the Meet the Rookies Event.

    Prior to law school, I completed a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Manitoba, with a focus in biology and microbiology. During my time at Robson, I’ve been involved with the Canadian Journal of Human Rights, the Professional Development Committee, the Spirit Committee, and the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers.

    In my free time, I enjoy golf and tennis.

  • Skylar Ferbers

    Hi! My name is Skylar (she/her), and I am one of this year's Professional Development Committee (PDC) Co-Chairs. 

    I am currently a third year at Robson Hall. Prior to law school, I completed a Bachelor of Commerce at the Asper School of Business with a major in Accounting. Since coming to Robson, I have been involved with Pro Bono Students Canada, the Legal Research Centre, the Community Outreach Committee, and the Professional Development Committee. 

    Last year, I was one of the Law Banquet Coordinators on PDC where I planned and organized networking events like the Law Banquet and Meet the Rookies. This year, I am excited to help the new Law Banquet Coordinators in their roles, and provide them with support however they need! I am also excited to work with my lovely co-chairs Denise, Danielle, and Jeremy. 

    In my free time, I love to travel, spend time with friends, try out new restaurants in the city, and stay active!

  • Denise Sarmiento

    Email Denise

    Hi everyone,

    My name is Denise (she/her), and I am one of the Professional Development Committee (PDC) co-chairs.

    I was born and raised in the Philippines, moved to Canada during my last year of high school, and completed a BA in Psychology Honours for my undergrad. Since coming to Robson, I’ve been involved with PDC, the Criminal Law Group, and Pro Bono Students Canada. My hobby is having hobbies - swimming, surfing, travelling, pottery, Pilates, and whatever else I feel like doing at the moment. I also love checking out new places to eat and meeting new people!

    As co-chair, I help PDC team members organize networking events for Robson Hall. This year, I’m helping new team members organize the Roundtable Event and the Wine and Cheese (both events for small and medium firms, government, and in-house counsel). I think practicing law is definitely not one-size-fits-all, so I love that my role involves helping students meet all kinds of lawyers to learn about their stories and the many ways you can practice law!

  • Dani Rabichuk

    Hi my name is Dani Rabichuk (she/her) and I’m an incoming 3L student! I am excited to serve as one of the co-chairs of the professional development committee. Our goal is to facilitate new connections, and help you find your perfect fit within the legal community! 

    During my time at Robson, I’ve worked for the Manitoba Law Journal, the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, and Gowling WLG in Calgary.  I am interested in pursuing a career in intellectual property or medical defence. 

    In my spare time, I love to hike, travel, and try new restaurants! 

    If you have any questions about networking in Winnipeg or Calgary, or have any suggestions for making networking events better, please feel free to reach out!