MSU Law Grad Discusses his Career Path to Lead IP Practice Team
MSU Law graduate Vito Ciaravino (’08) was the keynote for the January Intellectual Property (IP) Speaker Series event hosted by Professor Adam Candeub. A partner with Warner Norcross + Judd in Detroit, Mr. Ciaravino serves as the Chair of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice group.
Professor Candeub and Vito Ciaravino
He shared his journey from an aerospace engineering background and serving as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Air Force to obtaining a law degree from MSU Law and securing his senior position with Warner Norcross + Judd. He reflects on his time at MSU law positively and says that as an alumnus, it is important to support “those students who are pursuing a similar career. I want to bolster their confidence and enhance their knowledge of what their future could possibly look like.”
Mr. Ciaravino credits great mentors who have pushed him throughout his career. “I was very blessed and fortunate to start at MSU Law, as this school continues to produce excellent IP attorneys.” He reminded the students “that the practice of law is a marathon and not a sprint, and they are not expected to know exactly what they are doing from day one.”
His advice to students when they take the next big step after graduation, “Hard work, humility, and a positive attitude are three of the most important attributes that a new associate should possess. Everyone is bound to make mistakes. It is important to let go of the ego. This is a starting job, and you need to be comfortable with making those mistakes.”
Law Students interested in IP
Further, Mr. Ciaravino stressed that “a positive attitude, the ability to take constructive criticism, and a willingness to learn from experienced colleagues, are all key to becoming a better lawyer.” He closed by telling students that there will be times when they are busier than they want to be, but says it is imperative to have perspective, rely on others if possible, and present the best work with the time given.