Chaiyeon Lee

Experiential learningWhat experiential learning experiences (clinics, externships, etc.) did you participate in, and how did they contribute to your legal education?    

During law school, I participated in the Family Law Litigation Clinic, where I represented clients in custody and support matters under the wonderful supervision of Professor Katz and Professor Cobb. This experience allowed me to advocate directly in court, draft pleadings, and counsel clients, which taught me so many valuable lessons about strong advocacy and deepened my understanding of both the legal and human aspects of family law. 
 
I also served as a Legal Extern for Arcadia University, where I assisted with a wide range of higher education legal matters, including policy review, compliance issues, and employment matters. This externship gave me valuable exposure to institutional decision-making and really taught me the importance of details in the legal field.  

What participation and leadership positions did you hold, and how did that shape your law school experience? 

I served as Co-President of the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA), where I focused on building community and creating inclusive programming. A highlight of this role was helping bring back the tradition of the Lunar New Year Banquet, which had not been held since 2019 due to Covid. This event really brought together students, faculty, and alumni to celebrate culture and foster connection. Leading APALSA shaped my law school experience by giving me the opportunity to build incredibly meaningful connections with other Asian American law students and practicing attorneys, advocate for the Asian American community, and mentor peers. 
 
I also participated in the Integrated Transactional Program (ITP) as both a student my 2L year and I returned as a teaching assistant my 3L year. As a TA, I supported second-year students by playing various client roles in simulations, providing feedback on their performance, and grading assignments. The ITP program was a wonderful community led by amazing professors who not only taught students valuable skills in the transactional field, but also built an encouraging community.

Do you have networking advice to offer to current or prospective students? 

I would encourage current and prospective students to attend as many networking events as possible. Not every event will result in a direct opportunity, and that is perfectly fine, some events will resonate more than others. It is important to approach networking not with the expectation of immediate gain, but with a commitment to being your genuine self and building meaningful connections. Engaging with people because you are genuinely interested in their perspectives often leads to more authentic and lasting relationships. Equally important is maintaining these connections through thoughtful follow-up, which helps foster ongoing professional relationships over time. 

What are some ‘can’t miss’ opportunities at Temple Law? 

One “can’t miss” opportunity at Temple Law is a trial advocacy course. The courtroom simulation is an incredible experience that teaches invaluable advocacy skills and really develops your public speaking. The professors are not only experts and trailblazers in litigation, but they also provide thoughtful, constructive feedback that helps you grow with each exercise. Even if you are not planning a career in litigation, this course is a must because the confidence, communication skills, and practical lessons you gain will benefit every area of law. I walked away feeling far more prepared to advocate effectively and think on my feet in any legal setting. 

How did you go about balancing law school and your personal life? 

Balancing law school and personal life can be challenging because it feels like school requires so much. But just as it is important to make outlines, study for finals, and apply for internships and clinics, making time for rest, fun, and meaningful activities is equally important. Law school can be intense, so it is important to enjoy yourself and avoid burnout. Philadelphia offers so much to explore, attend a Sixers, Phillies, or Eagles game, visiting the Art Museum, or going out to dinner with friends at one of the many amazing restaurants Philly has to offer. Most importantly, make time to connect with your peers, who often become some of the most valuable connections for your future legal career.