JusVox Interview Series: Ava Taylor, Court Reporting and Captioning Student

Ava Taylor | Court Reporting and Captioning Student

What school or training program are you attending?

Lakeshore Community College.

What city and state are you located in?

Midlothian, Virginia.

How did you first find out about this profession? Was there a person, experience, video, social media post, or something else that introduced you to it?

I have always been someone who found themselves really involved in law and writing. But I didnt have a true idea of what career out there had those type of skills combined. I ended up doing my own research one night, and came across court reporting! I was convinced this career path was exactly what I wanted. I could do something that I do best in and make a true difference in peoples lives by making sure every word spoken in a courtroom was heard. I instantly looked up resources to help me find ways to get myself into school for it.

Who are you outside of work and school, what do you like to do?

Outside of school and work, Im truly a writer at heart. Ive always had my own passion of writing poetry for myself as a way of relaxing. I as well love keeping my area clean and neat! Im a very organized person; I love that about myself.

What made you think, "I could actually see myself doing this"?

I noticed throughout my life people commented on my skills in writing. How I always write fast, good grammar, etc. People have always complimented my writing and english skills. Once I saw myself looking into this career I saw a lot of hope. I noticed that compared to other careers Ive looked into, I actually had a passion for this. I did lots of research, practiced early before school began, and was excited for something so niche.

Before you started school, what did you think this career was going to be like? Has that perception changed since you started learning?

Before I started school, I knew that it would be something different and new, but didnt realize the workload. But even after every assignment or exam, instead of dreading it, I know that I wouldnt wish for anything else. I truly look at school as if its my hobby! As you would say in steno, AOEU HRAOEUBG T!

What part of this profession interests you the most right now?

The most interesting part about school is how incredibly hard it is but something youre willing to do no matter what. Even when its hard, it pushes me more, because its literally learning a new language!

How long is your program or course, and where are you currently in your training?

Im in my first year of court reporting school at Lakeshore College, and currently studying my theory!

What has your experience at school been like so far? What have you enjoyed the most about learning the profession?

Its definitely a lot of work, but I wouldnt want anything else. Sometimes it feels impossible but the next week youll know it like nothing!

What is something about your school or training program that you really like?

Lakeshore college provides us with many short forms to use throughout our theory. I really enjoy that many of our word requiring three strokes often can be turned into just one!

What is something about your school or the way the profession is taught that you do not like?

I think Id prefer for more schools to be offered. I dont like how most programs are fully online or so hidden mostly no one knows about it. This should be offered at every community college or university!

Do you feel like your school is preparing you for the actual business and professional side of the industry, or is it primarily teaching you the technical skills?

Everyday we learn something new! Whether its grammar, short forms, briefs, all of it helps with building our dictionaries before we start our niche careers.

Are you using social media to document your journey, promote yourself, learn from professionals, or connect with people in the industry?

I currently use Instagram and Tiktok to document my journey in stenography. I find that sharing my journey connects me with the amazing groups of other court reporters out there, as well with finding new ways of studying and learning!

Do your friends and family understand what you are going to school for? What do they think about your career choice?

This career is not talked about enough! Most of my family was confused about my decision. Its not a career everyone knows about. After they were informed about my career, they were so interested and impressed on how I was even able to grasp the keys on the machine.

Have you told your friends about this profession or encouraged anyone you know to consider joining the field?

I realized sharing my journey connects other people into joining. After I began posting about my experiences, I noticed many people messaged me saying Ive encouraged them to research the career and start school.

Do you think enough people know that this career exists? What do you wish the general public understood about the profession?

Definitely not! People need to know about this career. I wish people knew that this is something hard but anyone is capable of doing.

Do you think this profession fits your personality, skills, habits, and preferred way of working? What makes you feel like it is or is not a good fit?

This profession fits me perfectly like a suit. I love how I have the capability to type like I enjoy, and be involved in a courtroom.

What are your thoughts on AI in this industry?

AI will never take over our talent.

Where do you go, what online or in person resource do you use to find a community to talk with about your studies, ideas, questions or comments?

Joining online communities is the best way to do it!

What's Your Favorite Restaurant? (add city or state it is located in)

Mission BBQ, Midlothian Hull, Virginia. They are the most amazing people and keep our veterans heard.

Coffee, Tea or Energy Drink?

Energy Drink

Social Media Links

Instagram: Avivrea, Tiktok: avasteno

Website and/or Contact Information