After graduating from USC Gould’s Center of Dispute Resolution programs, Melinda Feldman (ADR Certificate), Jack Gannon (MDR) and Xochilt Rosas (MDR), combined their strength in mediation and conflict resolution to establish a joint business venture: Ad
vanced Mediation Solutions.
In the Q&A below, they discuss their passion for dispute resolution and how their time at USC fueled their current career development.
What sparked your interest in learning about dispute resolution?
Feldman: Early in 2020 with the challenging times of COVID, I discovered an unexpected passion: Mediation. While we were all homebound, I signed up for an online mediation class—and I was captivated from the start. I began mediating Small Claims cases for Orange County Superior Court via Zoom, and the experience was both engaging and rewarding. I realized I could make a meaningful impact by helping others resolve their conflicts
Gannon: During my 40 years in corporate America; I unfortunately spent a significant amount of time as a defendant in various litigations. The process was time consuming, costly, and the organization had little to no control over the outcome. I found that those cases that were settled through arbitration or mediation, were much more efficient and satisfactory to those parties involved.
Rosas: My interest in dispute resolution grew out of my law enforcement career. Having served as a union director and working the ombudsman office furthered that interest. I found myself in roles that required mediating challenging situations. It was these experiences that sparked my interest in learning about dispute resolution and a career transition into mediation.
What made you pursue your degree, and why at USC Gould?
Feldman: The pandemic significantly slowed my career as a Realtor, giving me time to dive deeper into mediation — a field I found myself truly enjoying. I decided to pursue mediation as a new career path. After a conversation with a friend, a highly regarded mediator in Los Angeles, she encouraged me to pursue formal education in alternative dispute resolution. After exploring various programs in the Los Angeles area, I chose USC because of its compelling course offerings, flexible scheduling, and outstanding reputation. I completed the program and earned a Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution.
Gannon: I researched several programs, and determined that USC Gould was what I was looking for. The program offered a diversity of courses, practicums, and the professors were very well respected in their fields of practice
Rosas: My passion for resolving disputes is what led me to pursue a degree in mediation. I chose USC for its flexible MDR program. The program allowed me to attend part-time with evening classes making it ideal for working professionals like me. Additionally, the Human Resources and Compliance Certificate was a valuable addition that aligned with my goals. The diversity I saw on campus gave me a strong sense of belonging, and the options USC had were the perfect fit and a win-win for me!
What is the most memorable experience or learning from your USC studies?
Feldman: My time in the program was filled with memorable experiences. The professors, all experts in their fields, and my fellow students, who came from diverse backgrounds, careers, ages and goals, made every class enriching. When I started at USC, I wasn’t entirely sure where my new mediation skills would lead me. Meeting Jack and Xochilt was an unexpected and lasting gift. Though our backgrounds varied, we shared a common vision and passion for building a new career in Dispute Resolution.
Gannon: The most memorable experience was the opportunity to engage in interactive and challenging discussions in the classroom, team assignments and simulations; with students with such diverse backgrounds.
Rosas: I have two memorable experiences! The first was when I was enrolling in ADR Ethics and I discovered that Professor Pollack, whose articles I had been collecting, was the instructor. I had followed her through Mediate.com and was starstruck! The second was the first day of Contemporary Issues in Human Resource Compliance with Professor Andrew Hoag. On our first day, he encouraged us to look around the room, and reminded us that the people sitting next to us would one day be valuable connections. And he was right. My two classmates Jack and Melinda are now my business partners!
What is something that you enjoyed during your time as a student outside of your studies?
Feldman: I thoroughly enjoyed volunteering as a mediator for the Small Claims divisions of the Superior Courts in both Los Angeles and Orange Counties. This experience allowed me to give back to the community while gaining valuable insights and skills.
Gannon: The opportunity to challenge my mediation skills in the Los Angeles Superior Court system was so valuable as I embarked on a career in Mediation.
Rosas: Outside of my studies, I also enjoyed volunteering for the Los Angeles Superior Court System. And I brought together a group of classmates to attend the USC football games. It was a great way to build and enjoy the camaraderie. The SCamaraderie. Fight On!
How has your USC Gould education given you an advantage for your career upon graduation?
Feldman: USC’s strong reputation is certainly a bonus. When asked about my education, mentioning the USC Gould School of Law enhances my credibility and professionalism. I’m also a co-founder of Advanced-Mediation-Solutions, alongside my fellow graduates, Jack and Xochilt. I feel fortunate that we shared the same journey at USC, driven by a common passion for mediation.
Gannon: The knowledge and technical skills I acquired in the USC Gould program, has set me up for success as I pursue this new career. The USC degree has opened so many doors since graduation. I graduated with a Master of Laws, ADR, with a Certificate in HR Law and Compliance. Presently I continue to work in the Los Angeles Superior Court system, consult for several California companies on HR Compliance, and am co-Founder with two USC Gould graduates, Melina and Xochilt of the firm, Advanced-Mediation-Solutions.
Rosas: The USC Master of Dispute Resolution Degree has given me a distinct advantage in my career by equipping me with knowledge and practical skills in dispute resolution. Through my USC connections, my classmates and I launched our own mediation business (Advanced-Mediation-Solutions) using what we have learned to offer professional services. USC prepared me for this step and connected me with the right people.
What advice do you have for students who may be interested in following a similar path to yours?
Feldman: USC provides a challenging environment with tremendous opportunities. Get involved, build connections, and push yourself. We all shape our own future, so plan accordingly.
Gannon: Your time in the program will go by so fast. Take every opportunity to challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone. Pursue your degree as an active participant.
Rosas: The USC network is second to none. USC has numerous resources to assist in reaching our goals. It was through USC that I became part of the SCMA and ABA network and met mediation professionals. I also met many classmates that became friends and family. The journey is a challenging one, but you have support in the SCamaraderie and remember to Fight On!
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