Brooke Wilson
Senior Manager, Recruiting Outreach
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
This month WALRAA is proud to shine a spotlight on Brooke Wilson! Brooke is the Senior Manager for Recruiting Outreach at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP. She has been a member since 2014. Read about how WALRAA has helped Brooke in her career, the challenges she faces, and more in her own words below.
1. How long have you been a member of WALRAA? What has been your favorite experience so far?
I've been a member of WALRAA for roughly 10 years (plus 2 years in NYCRA). I've always enjoyed getting to meet so many wonderful people in the field. Over time I've also been able to build a network for support and growth.
2. How has WALRAA helped you in your field?
When I was more junior I was lucky enough to have some great WALRAA 1:1 mentors and have people outside of my firm to talk to about my career path. Getting to know people who were more senior than me gave me resources to go to if I needed advice on anything. It's also been great to talk to people who are in other roles outside of recruiting and learn more about what it looks like to take on other functions.
3. How did you first learn about and get started in Attorney Recruiting/Career Services?
When I was in college, I ran my schools tour guide program and just loved it. After graduating, I knew I wanted a career in recruiting or admissions but wasn't really sure where to look. My mom actually sent me the WALRAA job board where I applied to my first firm - Baker Botts!
4. What is your favorite moment of your career so far?
It's been really awesome to watch my first few classes of summer and fall associates make partner!
5. What is it that challenges you most in your job?
Probably the changing landscape of the different recruiting "seasons" - although it does make it interesting!
6. How do you balance your career and personal life?
I carve out time during the week (and add it to my calendar) for things that are important to me. Sometimes that's a 6 pm pilates class and other times its meeting a friend for lunch. On the weekends I prioritize time with my family.
7. What professional goals have you set for yourself this year?
Making connections at through NALP!
8. What is the best professional advice you have received?
That the worst thing someone can say is no. It was always hard for me to speak up and share ideas because I was afraid of rejection but that's part of growth.
9. What do you like to do for fun?
We moved to Old Town Alexandria last year and are enjoying exploring the neighborhood! I love spending time with my husband and step-daughters, and am always up to try whatever the new trendy gym class is.
10. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know?
I grew up here!
