<prompt> Human: Im 20 years old with junior standing at a state school. Im majoring in psychology and Im planning on going to law school in the future. Thanks to a generous relative, good saving habits as a childteenager, and a scholarship, ill be finishing my undergrad with no debt. For financial and personal reasons, I probably will not be able to go straight to law school from undergrad. A B.A. in psychology gives me limited job opportunities, so ive been looking into ways to make myself more marketable immediately out of college. A local community college offers a four-semester paralegal course that has caught my interest. Not only will it lead me to a well paying job right out of college, but working as a paralegal could give me some law experience so I know if I really want to spend the time and money to go through law school.The program would cost 5-6k total, depending on the cost of books. I am planning on doing in addition to finishing my B.A.- in summers, online, and in night classes. I am planning on paying as i go with money I earn through my current part-time job.This plan has received mixed reviews from my family. To me it seems like a good idea, but that may just be me being young and naive. If anyone has any insight, id love to hear it!  <response>: Paralegal here and while I do strongly recommend that you work in a law office prior to committing to law school I am less inclined to recommend you pursue a certificate in the field unless your career goal is to become a paralegal, which does not seem to be the case. It will largely depend on your local market and the expectations of your employers. In most larger markets a four year degree should be enough to get your foot in the door as an entry-level legal assistant or secretary, especially if you still have time to pick up a solid internship to put on your resume. I obtained a certificate but I was also several years removed from receiving my bachelors and didnt have much relevant work experience. It was a worthwhile investment for me but it may not be for you. Send out a few resumes before signing up for more classes. See if you get any interest with just the B.A.And please dont listen to these clowns chiming in who compare the job to a glorified secretarial role. I promise you it is not. Its very rewarding and interesting work. 