LEADERSHIP IN LAW 2021: Rachel Woloshin

Rachel Woloshin

Church Church Hittle & Antrim

Duquesne University School of Law, 2012

Why did you decide to enter the legal profession?

I have always had a passion for helping people in their time of need. The legal profession puts you in a unique position to help others with legal issues and impact a life in a positive way.

If you hadn’t pursued a legal career, what would you be doing?

I would probably be in the medical field. In high school, I had a strong interest in attending medical school and took all the advanced math and science courses that I could. When I arrived at IU, I planned to study biology and chemistry, but I was waitlisted for a majority of the courses due to my last name starting with a “W,” and by default being placed at the very end of the line for class registration. I ended up taking some legal courses instead and never looked back. It may also be what attracted me to the personal injury field of law.

Who is someone who has inspired you in your career?

I have been blessed to cross paths with so many inspirational individuals throughout my career. My parents, though, have always been supporters and probably my main source of inspiration. Their ability to manage their own business and career, raise four children and still find time to be involved in the community has always amazed me. They have taught me a lot about work ethic, work-life balance and the importance of making a positive impact on those around you.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Make what is valuable important. Instead of thinking about what is profitable, think about what is valuable — people. Invest your time in others and you will see growth both personally and professionally.

What makes a good lawyer/judge?

Skills such as analysis, research, writing and creativity can make a good lawyer, but at the end of the day, lawyers are working with people and making decisions that affect people’s lives. People skills — personable, good communicator, empathy and compassion — are really what make a good lawyer into a great lawyer.

How do you spend your free time?

My husband and I just welcomed our first child, Emma, into this world, so I have a feeling this answer is about to change. But for now, my husband and I are avid DIYers. There is almost always some sort of project going on at our home. We have done just about everything from accent walls and trim work to building a screened-in porch addition onto our home. When not working on projects, I enjoy being outdoors as much as possible and spending time with family and friends.

If you were an animal, what would you be?

That’s a tough question. Maybe a dolphin? Dolphins are intelligent, peaceful and joyful creatures. I also tend to think of them as good communicators and team players. Everybody loves dolphins!

Which superpower would you rather have: invisibility or the ability to read minds?

I would rather be invisible. I’m a little afraid of the ability to read minds. The mind can be a very wandering and private place. I imagine there would be many times that I’d rather not know what someone else is thinking.

Why did you decide to join Women for Riley?

Over the years, I have had several clients that are pediatric trauma patients of Riley Hospital for Children. I saw firsthand the importance of its programs and services for the patients and their families. It inspired me to get involved and give back to the organization.

Tell us about your work with Prevail Inc.

Prevail Inc. is a nonprofit organization in Hamilton County that provides crisis intervention and restorative support services for adult, adolescent and child survivors of crime and abuse. I first started volunteering for Prevail Inc. about seven or eight years ago, providing pro bono legal services to their clients in need. I eventually joined the board of directors and served in that capacity for six years. I continue to volunteer and support the organization today.•

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