By New Jersey State Bar Association
Katrina Homel is chair-elect of the New Jersey State Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division and is a trustee of the New Jersey State Bar Foundation. She credits much of her early success as an attorney to her involvement with the bar. She serves as legal counsel for the New Jersey School Boards Association. Check out a video about her here.
What has being a member of the NJSBA meant for your career? 
Through my involvement with the New Jersey State Bar Association, and particularly the Young Lawyers Division, I’ve found a supportive community of attorneys who encourage each other to grow and thrive in the legal profession. As I’ve become more engaged in the Association, I’ve not only expanded my professional network and leadership skills, but also made some great friends along the way. Joining the bar association is one of the best decisions I’ve made, personally and professionally, and continues to be immensely rewarding.
What advice do you wish you could have given to yourself when you were a law student or just starting out in the profession?
The practice of law is both exciting and difficult, and leaning into the challenging moments can open the door to opportunities for extraordinary growth. Additionally, I think the importance of extending professional courtesy to fellow attorneys can’t be over-emphasized. Honestly, I would have gotten involved in the NJSBA earlier. I’ve sincerely found that being engaged with the organization has been tremendously rewarding.
What do you like to do when you aren’t practicing law? 
Hiking is a new hobby that I discovered during the pandemic. Now I’m always searching for new trails and places to explore. We live in such a beautiful state! I’m also fascinated by New Jersey history. I serve on my local historic preservation commission and enjoy visiting our state’s many impressive historic sites.
What book would you recommend?
Hannah Gadsby’s book, “Ten Steps to Nanette: A Memoir Situation,” which I recently finished, and Colson Whitehead’s most recent book, “Harlem Shuffle.”
Learn more about Katrina in this video. Join the NJSBA today at njsba.com.