Deans, alumni offer advice for new law students
The 2009 fall semester is officially underway for new and returning students of the USC Gould School of Law. Dean Robert K. Rasmussen, faculty and staff welcomed the J.D. Class of 2012 and LL.M./M.C.L. Class of 2010 during orientation festivities held the week of Aug. 17-21.
The incoming class of 217 1Ls boasts a median LSAT score of 167 and undergraduate GPA of 3.6. Fifty-four percent of the class is female, up from 45 percent last year. Thirty-five percent are from out of state; 31 percent identify as an ethnic minority; and a quarter received their bachelor’s degree three or more years ago.
“Each of you with your unique talents and gifts will contribute to the vibrancy of our community,” said Associate Dean Chloe Reid, head of admissions.
Among some of the more unique talents are stand-up comedy, ballet dancing, opera singing, boxing and poetry. Other first-year students have served in the United States Marine Corps, worked in a family wholesale diamond business and volunteered in Iraq and Malawi.
USC Law’s incoming Graduate and International Programs for 2009-10 consist of 127 students from 24 countries, including China, Thailand, Japan, Korea, Germany, Brazil, Italy and Trinidad & Tobago. More than half of them have passed the bar in their home countries, and their work experience ranges from two months to 16 years. Forty-nine have worked for law firms, 12 for companies and another 12 for courts.
Going to law school “is going to define who you are as a person going forward, for the rest of your life,” Rasmussen told the new students during a morning convocation Aug. 18. “Each of us who has gone through law school still strives every day to become a better lawyer.”
To continue on that path, Rasmussen encouraged the new students to build their foundation in legal analysis through law school classes as well as their classmates; to discover their passion by exploring different subjects and getting to know the USC Law faculty; and to develop a sense of professional identity, which will allow them to lead a meaningful life.
Rasmussen introduced USC Law alumna the Honorable Candace Cooper ‘73, retired Court of Appeal justice currently practicing as a private mediator/arbitrator, who had her own advice to share.
She told the new students to work hard, do good, and have fun.
“Take your work seriously, but there’s enough time to have a life as well,” Cooper said. “Maintain true respect for other people; you’re fabulous, but keep it in perspective.”
Law school is a time to continue to develop one’s character. Students should increase their professionalism, ethics and integrity, empathy and compassion and a sense of duty, Cooper said.
“Your reputation is your most valuable asset as a lawyer,” she said.
Assistant Dean and Dean of Students Gabriela Ryan asked the students to expand their view of law school beyond the journey from point A to point B.
On the road to law school “you have encountered people who have changed your life, lived through experiences that have influenced your thoughts and studied in schools that have shaped your minds,” Ryan said. “I want to offer you one piece of advice: Do not leave these at the door as you take your first steps into the law school this morning. Bring these things with you: These people, stories, accomplishments will help inspire you, motivate you, pick you up when you are down, and help you believe in yourself when you feel overwhelmed and challenged.”
At the conclusion of the convocation, Cooper led the 1Ls in an oath committing to uphold the highest standards of academic honesty and ethical practice throughout law school and their careers.
Later in the week, the new students participated in the annual Community Service Project, teaming up with Surfrider Foundation to clean up Venice Beach. That evening, about 380 students, staff and faculty attended a Dodgers baseball game.
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