unless being in a biotech company is as boring as being a paralegal, I'd say go do biotech. 1 year as a paralegal won't do all that much. However, if you are interested in IP, working for some firm's client or somebody in their industry could be quite helpful. By showing that you have worked in at least a company similar to one that your firm will represent, you will have a great opportunity to demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of clients' needs.