Maryland Carey Law’s Intellectual Property Program was proud to once again host the Intellectual Property Section of the Maryland State Bar Association as they held and sponsored a career panel on October 30. Organized by Tom Lynch, Partner at Edell Shapiro Finnan IP Law, the panel provided a broad perspective of potential career paths in the intellectual property field. The panel was moderated by Michael Greenberger, President of the MSBA IP Law Section. Panelists included Jan Berlage, a partner at Gohn Hankey & Berlage LLP, USPTO Vice Chief Administrative Patent Judge Janet Gongola, and Christia Ravenell, a Staff Attorney at Maryland Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts.
Although the panelists had diverse career paths, they offered strikingly similar advice and insights on topics such as networking, continuous learning, and finding a mentor. This consensus underscored the fundamental principles of professional success regardless of specialization. Maia Gordon ’25 noted, “The panel was helpful in that it introduced me to professionals in my field of interest, and the career advice they shared was authentic and guiding.”
Students were encouraged to take a broad range of courses beyond intellectual property since IP cases often involve other subject matter as well. Panelists shared insights on clerkships post-graduation as positive experiences, and they stated that there is not just one path to success, as evidenced by the accomplished panelists.
Chikezie Aguocha ’25 shared, “The panel was great for aspiring lawyers interested in IP law who don’t really have an idea of where to start. It was inspiring to hear how panelists started their careers and where they are now. Their stories really helped me put into perspective the different paths available in IP law, and I’m grateful to the MSBA for hosting the panel at our school.”