“Camila shows uncommon poise for a newly admitted lawyer. She’s a strategic thinker who makes smart, confident decisions throughout the workday. Camila has proven to have strong lawyering skills as well. She is a concise writer and thorough researcher. She is an effective communicator with adversaries and clients. Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP is thrilled she is with us!” – Douglas Atkins, Partner, Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP.

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? One of the challenges I have faced early in my career has been navigating the steep learning curve of Property Tax Law while being a young attorney. Learning to immerse myself in this field has taught me to trust myself and to lean into the discomfort — by asking questions, studying case law, negotiating and settling cases, and learning to be assertive while remaining diplomatic. I’ve learned that preparation and persistence are powerful equalizers, and that confidence grows through experience. More importantly, I’ve learned how important it is to have mentors you trust and can rely on.

What is your top advice for someone just starting out in your field? My advice for new Tax Certiorari attorneys is to not be afraid of asking the “dumb questions,” and be eager to learn all of the answers. Property tax law is a niche area with many nuances. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed in the beginning. The best way to learn is by engaging with the work and seeking out mentors who are willing to explain both strategy and substance. Having this excitement to learn mindset is crucial because, as a new associate, a key differentiating factor is how you approach your career and how much effort you put into developing yourself as a professional.

This article was originally published in the New York Real Estate Journal.