Why did you choose South Texas College of Law Houston?
Growing up in the Houston area, South Texas Law has always had a reputation for developing practice-ready lawyers. I wanted to be part of a law school that had a long history of high bar exam passage rates and success within the booming legal environment of Houston. Most importantly, I knew I would be practicing here in the city, so I wanted to stay close to home.
Where are you working this summer?
I have a summer externship with Judge Sonya L. Aston with the 80th District Court of Houston. After applying through Symplicity and on-campus interviews, I had an interview and received the offer.
How did the Career Resource Center (CRC) help you successfully navigate the recruitment process?
My career advisor guided me through the entire process of applying to potential jobs, as well as how to navigate the Symplicity website. She was there for me every step of the way and was very involved in checking on me and my status.
What are your career goals for the future?
I plan to join a corporate law firm practice, though I am still deciding on commercial litigation or mergers and acquisitions within the transaction sector. My goal is to become partner at my firm, then later in life, become part of a general counsel’s office for a Major League baseball team.
What advice would you share with students going through recruitment?
Trust your CRC advisor, trust yourself, and trust your abilities. Your first semester will feel overwhelming. There is a lot expected of you, but you are here for a reason. STCL Houston believes you can become an excellent attorney, and you should never let go of that confidence. Let the CRC help you orchestrate a game plan to maximize your opportunities. They are great at what they do and want the best for you. Lastly, I know going into an interview is nerve-wracking, but remember the hours you’ve put in to get to this position. Trust your preparation and believe you are the right one for the position!
Which professors have influenced you and or your career path the most?
I have two in mind. First, my thesis-guiding professor at Georgetown University in D.C. Nina Bishop. She supported my dream to pursue a legal career and always encouraged my skills. At South Texas Law, it’s Professor Browne-Barbour. I had her for Torts my first semester, and the demand for excellence never wavered. I genuinely believe having her as a professor set me up for success the rest of my law school tenure and beyond.
What student organizations have you been involved with?
I’m currently the 1L representative for the Republican Law Society. I’m also a member of the Business Law Society, the Sports and Entertainment Law Society, and the STCL Golf Club.
How has the law school community supported your growth?
The community is so tightly knit. Everyone feels like family, and you know people want each other to succeed. In my past career I worked in politics, and one compliment I always heard about STCL Houston is that the people within the school care about the law and they care about each member being excellent at practicing the law. This is categorically the truth. When I step on campus I am met with friends, professors, future colleagues, and staff who all care about making this place the best it can be. That, in turn, makes me want to try to be the best I can be every single day.
What is something unique about you that we can’t learn from your resume?
I played college baseball and was team captain my senior year of college. I also have a beautiful wife Liz and a handsome 14-month-old little boy named Holden. He always keeps us on our toes!
