Student Spotlight: Jaylan Sanders, 2L

Meet Jaylan Sanders, 2L and learn more about her story at South Texas Law in this Student Spotlight by the Career Resource Center.

Q: Name & class year?

A: My name is Jaylan Sanders and I am currently a 2L.

Q: Why did you choose to attend STCL Houston?

A: From the moment I stepped foot on the campus for my very first tour, I just knew South Texas Law was the place for me. I came into law school with a strong interest in litigation, so the advocacy program and extensive clinic program really resonated with me.

Q: Where are you working next summer?

A: I am thrilled to announce that next summer I will be spending the first 6 weeks as a summer associate with Baker Donelson and the second six weeks as a summer associate with Bradley.

Q: How did you secure that employment opportunity?

A: My journey to securing these opportunities started with the Career Center. For my Baker Donelson position, the Career Center sent me an email informing me that Baker Donelson was accepting applications for their Diversity Scholarship and Summer Associate program. Under the guidance of my career counselor Marie, I was able to finalize my application material and submit to the firm.

After a few rounds of interviews, I was offered the Baker Donelson Diversity Scholarship. My opportunity with Bradley also began with the Career Center who informed me about a program called Sunbelt Diversity Recruitment. This program allowed me to apply to the Firm and complete my initial interview in Dallas, Texas. The second round of interviews was in the Houston office, and I was offered the position shortly thereafter.

Q: How did the CRC help you successfully navigate the recruitment process?

A: The CRC has been an invaluable resource throughout my journey in navigating the recruitment process. They have provided comprehensive assistance, guiding me from the creation of my initial legal resume and cover letter, to keeping me informed about various employment opportunities.

They’ve served as an essential sounding board as I’ve maneuvered through the intricacies of the recruitment process. During my 1L experience, the weekly lunch and learn series offered by the CRC proved exceptionally beneficial. These sessions aided me in clarifying the areas of legal work that resonated with me, and they also equipped me with optimal strategies to engage in those areas effectively.

I’ve not only developed a strong rapport with my dedicated career counselor, Marie, but I’ve also fostered meaningful connections with the entire CRC team. Their unwavering support and genuine investment in my growth, both within the recruitment process and as a student and individual, have left an incredible mark on me.

Within the walls of the CRC, I’ve shared moments of laughter, tears, celebration, and strategic planning. I wholeheartedly credit my success in the recruitment process to the invaluable guidance and assistance I’ve received from the CRC.

Q: What are your career goals for the future?

A: My career goals for the future are ever-evolving however, currently I have an interest in real-estate, construction litigation and I would even be open to dabbling in labor and employment.

Q: What piece of advice would you share with the future generation of STCL Houston students going through recruitment?

A: My suggestion to future South Texas Law students going through recruitment is to direct your focus towards wholeheartedly engaging in the work itself – to embrace the challenges, invest the necessary effort, and persevere through the demanding tasks. By truly immersing oneself in the process and demonstrating the unwavering determination, results will follow.

Q: Which professors have influenced you or your career path the most?

A: I can truly tell you today that every single professor I have had the opportunity to learn from has been influential to me, however, if I had to identify a few professors I would say Professor Moore, Professor Nelson, and Professor Jankowski. Each of these professors showcase an incredible amount of passion for the legal field and motivate me to strive for their same level of greatness.

Q: What student organizations have you been involved with?

A: Currently, I am involved with the BLSA group – the Black Law Student Association — and the Houston Young Lawyers Association. I am looking forward to getting more involved with student organizations this semester.

Q: Beyond CRC, how has the STCL Houston community supported your growth?

A: Beyond the CRC, the STCL Houston community has supported my growth in ways beyond what I ever could’ve imagined. Every individual within the community, ranging from the security officers to the library staff, the writing center, and even Candyman, has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to my growth and achievements.

The South Texas community ensures I know how welcome I am and how much everyone is rooting for me and my success. As a student of South Texas, I am deeply aware that a multitude of people stands ready, willing, and eager to offer a receptive ear, a comforting presence during challenging times, or a guiding nudge in the right direction.

The South Texas community has truly created an environment where I feel profoundly supported, fostering a network of individuals who are genuinely invested in my well-being and success.