Meet Roxann L. Jones, 2L and learn more about her story at South Texas Law in this Student Spotlight by the Career Resource Center.
Why did you choose to attend South Texas College of Law Houston?
I am a nontraditional student. I work full time, and I needed a program that would allow me to meet my financial obligations while attending evening classes. South Texas Law offered that flexibility.
Where are you working next/this semester?
I work for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and I also am an extern for the Honorable Joe Venghaus, Fifth Judicial Circuit, Army JAG Corp. I secured the externship through the on-campus interview process through the law school’s Career Resource Center (CRC).
How did the CRC help you successfully navigate the recruitment process?
The CRC team was incredibility helpful. Marie Garcia helped me update my resume and cover letter. She also provided a roadmap to finding legal experiences that would work for a nontraditional student like me.
What are your career goals for the future?
My goal is to become an attorney who provides meaningful and effective legal assistance to every client I serve. Beyond that, I am committed to giving back to my community by offering legal support to those who might not otherwise have access to it.
What advice would you share with future students going through recruitment?
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Put yourself out there and network as much as possible. Rejection is part of the process; don’t let it discourage you. It only takes one “yes.” Create your own path; your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s, and that’s completely OK.
Which professors influenced you and your career path the most?
This is a difficult question. Can I name them all? Professors Shelby Moore and Njeri Rutledge have been truly inspiring throughout this journey; they helped me shake my imposter syndrome and provided a welcoming yet challenging environment. I call them my South Texas Superheroes. Prof. Andrew Solomon pushed me to improve my legal writing and always made time to answer my questions, even on a Saturday night, because he knew my work schedule made it tough to attend regular office hours. That kind of dedication is what makes South Texas Law professors stand out. I also must give a special mention to Prof. Vanessa Browne-Barbour. She was one of my toughest professors, but she challenged me in the best way possible and gave me the encouragement I needed to succeed.
What student organizations have you been involved with?
I am involved in the Black Law Students Association, Veterans Law Students Association, and the Phi Delta Phi Legal Honor Society.
How has the law school community supported your growth?
The Writing Center is a huge asset to enhance students’ legal writing skills. The Law librarians and staff are phenomenal here at South Texas Law, they really go the extra mile to assist any way they can. Lyndsay Garmond-Duvernay and our Student Support staff do a lot behind the scenes, and I would not make it through finals without them.
What is something interesting about you that we can’t learn from your resume?
I love watching professional boxing matches. My all-time favorite boxer was Prince Naseem Hamed (retired).
