Background to my question:
I am 22 years old, and am enrolled part-time in school (still in my first year of classes as well). I was previously working full-time at a professional position, as an office assistant in a 2 lawyer law firm. Prior to this, I have absolutely no "professional" work experience, and had been working in customer service-slash-retail positions (gas stations, convenience stores, etc). Getting this position was due to family connections and that my employer was willing to train me literally from scratch because she was so desperate for help. I devoted myself to learning as much as I could absorb in this position as I'm studying for a paralegal degree and I was excited to be working in the law field so early in my schooling. When I was let go, I had been working there for less than a year (10 months total). I am on good terms with my previous employer, but am uncomfortable approaching her with a "do you know where/how I can look for work based on our work scenario?" kind of question.
So, my question is:
What are a few steps to take to continue working in this field with my current experience level?
I want to go about applying to similar positions, perhaps not in a law firm, but looking for professional office positions. I know that with my age, my schooling, and my experience, I do not have a leg up on other more experienced candidates, and if a company tells me that, then I can accept it. However, I do feel that I learned a lot during my first foray into the professional world and workplace and would like to continue this trend. I know this means I should be looking for companies willing to train "entry-level" people in this field, who would be willing to "bear with me" so to speak as I continue to learn.
Is there a set of standards when first breaking into a field that I should follow when drafting a resume/cover letter or being interviewed, that allow me to convey this professionally?
I did take a look at this question and this question, but I don't feel they appropriately answer my scenario, as there are no "steps you can take" kind of standards for when breaking into a new field and knowing you are in need of continued training. I also checked out this one to get help in building a resume with both non-professional and professional experience. If there are any others that I missed, please feel free to direct me.
Additionally, answers like "wait until you are further in school" or others that involve me staying unemployed or earning experience in any unpaid manner are not an option in this scenario due to financial reasons. Telling me to "just go get a customer service job" is also not helpful, as I can and will do so, but would like to know if there is a way to give me a better chance in the professional field as I continue job hunting.