As the ISBA opens applications for its newest Leadership Development Academy Class, we take time to reflect on the experiences of other LDA class members. Below, learn about Andrew Teel's experiences and takeaways from the program. The application for the 2020 LDA class is due Nov. 4. Learn more and apply here.

How has your career progressed during the time since you graduated LDA?
It is no exaggeration to say that my career has progressed more in the five years since graduating from the LDA than in the nine years before my involvement. Whether it was presenting oral argument at the Indiana Supreme Court’s bicentennial event in Corydon or assuming leadership positions in the state and local bar, the LDA gave me the confidence to put myself out there for opportunities that would otherwise have passed me by.

In what ways have you seen LDA impact your career?
The biggest impact for me was the realization that success as a lawyer is more than how many hours you can bill. The idea of servant leadership really resonated with me and gave me the push I needed to pursue causes that I was passionate about, both within the legal community and the community where I live. I am much more fulfilled now than when I measured success and failure by my salary.

Do you still connect with anyone from your LDA class?
Yes! One of the best things about the LDA is having an instant network of people from all over the state, practicing in virtually all areas of the law. 

What advice do you have for attorneys early in their careers?
Expose yourself to as many areas of the law as you can. When I began my career in a small insurance defense firm, I could have never imagined that I would try multiple federal criminal cases or argue a plaintiff’s case to the Indiana Supreme Court. Had I stayed with what I knew, I would never have even attempted to most noteworthy accomplishments in my career.

Why would you recommend LDA to new attorneys?
There are so many reasons, but the one I would highlight the most is the personal connections. I know of no other program or opportunity where you can have one-on-one time with Supreme Court Justices, engage in conversations with state-wide business leaders, or just grab a beer with a remarkable attorney from the other side of the state. It is these connections that have stuck with me long after the paintball bruises have healed.

Andrew L. Teel is a Law Clerk to the Hon. Holly A. Brady, United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana