Aspire

Let me add my name to the list of those congratulating you on your admission to Michigan Law.

As an alumnus, I recall when I opened my own letter from Dean Z. I felt euphoria, relief, and…uncertainty. I was taking out sizable loans to finance law school, and I really didn’t know what I wanted to do with my future law degree or whom to ask about my options. Dean Z’s letter provided an opportunity to study at one of the world’s best law schools; what I didn’t realize was that it also was an invitation to join a family of elite attorneys who were willing to pay it forward in order to help me find my way.

I began my career at the world’s largest law firm. I only expected to be there a few years, but I really enjoyed my work and steadily climbed the ranks, eventually making partner. I worked hard for my success, but at every turn, Michigan Law alumni were there with encouragement and support. I interviewed with an alum (whom I later learned was my staunchest advocate in the hiring process). My closest mentors at the firm were alumni. My best friends at the firm were alumni. I could go on, but you get the idea.

Now, back at Michigan Law, I am dedicated to paying it forward. Although many parts of law school are the same as when I was a student, navigating the career planning process is more complicated and challenging than ever. Hiring timelines are falling earlier in the academic year, and the array of career options continues to expand.

Of course, more options is a good thing. But students now need expert career advisers who can help them learn about legal practice, make connections with alumni and practicing lawyers, develop their professional identity, and prepare for recruiting—all while helping them see the bigger picture.

That might feel like a lot, and that’s why we’re here for you.

Our team of attorney-counselors (surprise, many them also are alumni) has more than 80 years of practice experience. We have done everything from working as a legal aid staff attorney to assistant United States attorney, from state supreme court clerk to Michigan Law clinical faculty fellow, from federal law clerk to Big Law hiring partner. We’ve practiced in big cities and small towns. Some of us identify as first-gen, others were K-JD, and still others came to law school as a second career. We are a diverse team of professionals ready to help set you up for success—however you might define that word.

And that last part is the key. As you start your law school career, many people will have suggestions for what you should do with your life and how you should go about charting that path. We are not going to tell you what you should do with your career—our job is to listen to you, help you make sense of conflicting information, and then support you so that you can pursue the path that makes sense for you. We focus on individualized, one-on-one counseling because we know you will get the best advice when we know you by your first name.

So, let me close the way I began. Congratulations on your admission to Michigan Law. I truly look forward to meeting you.