Experiential learning
Hometown: Gaithersburg, MD
Education: Temple University, Philosophy
Job: Still Seeking
Program: Full-Time Day
I participated in the Social Justice Lawyering Clinic and it’s been one of the best experiences I’ve had in law school. I love client-facing work and this clinic gave me that opportunity. As a student-attorney with the supervision of my faculty supervisor, I was able to work directly with clients, helping them in a wage collection claim. As part of a policy project, my group explored existing labor laws and ways in which they could be improved to enhance the rights of black workers. This clinic opened my mind to an area of law that I hadn’t considered before and gave me that hands on learning that I was looking for.
Faculty impact
Professor Jennifer Lee quickly became a constant influence throughout my time in law school. Working with her in the Social Justice Lawyering Clinic, I learned from how she approaches legal questions, client needs, and even the procedural issues of civil litigation. I learned the nuances of working on a case from her. Outside of the clinical work, she has been a great support personally and in seeking out job and internship opportunities.
Networking advice
Networking is one of those things that can be so daunting. The biggest thing that has made it easier for me is changing my mindset on it. Instead of thinking about it as this task to meet certain people or trying to get a certain opportunity, I now realize it’s just relationships. Outside of getting an internship or job, go into networking just open to have regular conversations with people you connect with. Whether it’s a connection on a hobby or your hometown, these are the connections that will matter and that you and the other person will want to build upon when you meet again at the next “daunting” networking event. Like any meaningful relationship, it doesn’t happen overnight– it takes following up and being genuine.
Advice to current or prospective students
Study abroad! Study abroad! Study abroad! Temple has so many opportunities to study outside of Philadelphia that most students either are not aware of, or think they won’t be able to fit into their schedule. I had the pleasure of studying in Puerto Rico for a semester and loved every bit of it. Outside of skipping out on part of the Philadelphia winter, I enjoyed learning about how Puerto Rico’s legal system is impacted by its relationship with the United States and learning from the great faculty at the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico. I loved exploring the beautiful island and culture of Puerto Rico and I wish everyone had the chance to experience it. Outside of PR, Temple has campuses in Italy and Japan and partnerships with many other law schools around the word so it’s definitely a ‘can’t miss’ opportunity.
Balancing law school and personal life
Maintaining balance that first year was difficult, but I realized that I am better off academically when I take some time for myself. For me it was the gym- staying active was great for me because it cleared my mind and allowed me to set goals that were not academic. I also made time for my family- they were in another state so I could not see them in person that much, but I made sure to stay connected through facetime and group chats.