Hello.
Many, many years ago I was a legal assistant / paralegal at an extremely prestigious law firm. At that time I was an undergrad at USC, majoring in business administration and worked part-time. My work as a paralegal brought in good money, but my recollection of that time was that I considered it just as a way to make some money. I didn't consider it to be a long term thing, and this is probably because the attorneys unfortunately treated me harshly and disrespectfully.
I also noted that there were few women lawyers, and no minority lawyers. (I'm an Asian woman).
I felt that having a law degree, would help with giving me added credibility. A paralegal / legal assistant works just as hard, has tons of stress as a lawyer, but it was clear to me is considered a lesser valued member.
Law school was expensive, and my relationship suffered. Law school, if you really put yourself into it, is a lonely experience.
But worth it.
I'm now a type of a judge in Los Angeles hearing juvenile criminal cases. Prior to becoming a juvenile judge, I represented children in child abuse matters. I made about $70,000 as an attorney, and now I make about $130,000....this is not very much considered to what first year lawyers make in big firms. It is extremely stressful.
However, I love this job where I feel I can make a difference in some lives. For me, the opportunity to help people and make a difference was worth the struggles.
Good luck to you.