Rebecca Pendleton Juarbe

Closing Attorney Manager / Supervisory Counsel for New York State

I must have been the only 12-year-old that drafted and added copyright language to school projects. While others kids were interested in becoming teachers, doctors and astronauts, I gravitated towards government and politics. I believed that focusing on constitutional law would change the world. I finally got my opportunity as an intern on Capitol Hill. It was thrilling, educational, and fun (especially the employees-only tram that goes from the House to Senate side). As great as that was, I realized it was not my calling.

The next big step was getting accepted and then graduating from New York University. Then, following that 12-year-old girl’s dream, I entered law school. It wasn’t easy. I worked as a paralegal during the day and went to law school at night. I believe that gave me a unique edge as a real estate lawyer. Being able to work in a high-volume Manhattan law firm while going to law school at night only confirmed my vision—that I can use that drive, determination, and dedication to excel as a real estate lawyer.

Changing the world has taken on a new meaning for me. That 12-year-old girl’s dream of legislating the world into a better place has evolved and matured into helping other people fulfill their dreams. I find it by helping a parent refinance in order to send their child to college debt-free or helping the newlyweds buy their first house. I love what I do and the people I do it for and with. Do what you love, and you’ll never work another day in your life.