Douglas W. Dimitroff '89

Segment Synopsis: Dimitroff grew up in Buffalo with a suburban background. He lived with his mother, father, and three siblings, in a busy house. Neither of his parents went to college, but they encouraged the children to. Dimitroff decided to attend law school when he was born; his entire life was built around going to law school.

Keywords: Being a Lawyer; Family; Perceptions; Value of Education

Subjects: FAMILY HISTORY; LAW

Segment Synopsis: Dimitroff came to a decision with his newly married wife to go to law school, while she began medical school. The movie Paper Chase formed expectations for his experience at law school. He was a bit intimidated in class, but he grew into it. UB trained him to be a lawyer and understand all types of practices. Dimitroff started work in litigation then transitioned to commercial real estate. During summers in law school, he worked with a local firm in Buffalo for a couple years.

Keywords: Choosing UB Law School; Expectations; Experience as Student; Internships; Spouse; Undergraduate Education; Value of Education

Subjects: EDUCATION; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; UB LAW AS STUDENT

Segment Synopsis: After living in NYC, Dimitroff's wife, with a new baby, wanted to move back to Buffalo. Once back, he applied to Phillips Lytle a few times before he was accepted. Dimitroff loved commercial real estate because he enjoyed the process; beginning with an idea to finishing with a physical, tangible result. After six years in the practice, he was offered to work within telecommunications and international/Canadian border law. This great experience grew his company and the particular area is still increasing.

Keywords: Choice of Law; Law Firms; Practice; Satisfaction; Service

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Segment Synopsis: Dimitroff's favorite part of his job is seeing his projects finish effectively. His considers his greatest professional achievement to be named to the Federal Communication Commission's Broadband Deployment Advisory Committee. It gave him an opportunity to see things from a different perspective.
His career was influenced by high school and college professors, and former department chairs.

Keywords: Accomplishments; Career / Professional Experience; Distinction; Expectations; Greatest Achievement; Law Professor; Value of Education

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Segment Synopsis: Dimitroff believes that professional opportunities have changed drastically over time because lawyers can show their expertise much differently than they could when he was in law school. Due to societal and economic changes, lawyers can show skill sets differently. Also, the face of legal education has changed due to the concept of interdisciplinary perspectives.

Keywords: Career / Professional Experience; Character and Values; Choice of Law; Expectations; Experience as Student; Legal Education; Teaching Law

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; EDUCATION; UB LAW MISCELLANEOUS

Segment Synopsis: Dimitroff would redo his law school experience if he had the chance because it had a profound impact on himself and his family. Dimitroff and his wife started their careers at the same time, so they had a mutual understanding. He was always surrounded by work and admits that he tried to involve his family when he could (events, meetings, etc.). Dimitroff's favorite way to spend time off is when he relaxes at home and works out. His hobbies include walking and hiking with his wife. He tries to balance his personal life along with his work.

Keywords: Academic vs. Career Success; Career / Professional Experience; Choice of Law; Family; Hobbies; Perceptions; Spouse

Subjects: FAMILY HISTORY; PERSONAL ISSUES

Segment Synopsis: Dimitroff has been involved in the UB Law School since he graduated. It began with the Gold Group, which got him in touch with law students and graduates. After, he was involved in alumni activities, then asked to join the Dean's Advisory Panel. Each year he awards a scholarship to student. Dimitroff admires the law school history, and ability to tap into the wider university. He admits that students won't be successful if they don't love what they do.

Keywords: Advice; Alumni; Alumni Association; Choosing UB Law School; Community Involvement; Law School History; Law Students; Relationship with UB Law

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; LAW; UB LAW MISCELLANEOUS