POLS 4081 & New Skills: Kicking Off a Purposeful Summer Semester

by Michelle Moya

The summer semester is almost halfway through, and we are in the midst of a productive “break.” With a lighter campus crowd and a more flexible schedule, summer presents a unique opportunity to focus on learning new skills!

Between new responsibilities and summer coursework, I’ve found the perfect balance of challenge and opportunity this summer. One of the biggest surprises so far has been exploring the new course on campus, POLS 4081, “How to Win in the Courtroom,” which is designed as a preparation for Moot Court.

Unlike a traditional political science lecture, POLS 4081 simulates the experience of arguing a case before the United States Supreme Court. Structured around a fictional constitutional law case from the American Moot Court Association (AMCA), the class has us acting as attorneys—preparing and presenting oral arguments on behalf of either the petitioner or the respondent. In this course, there is an emphasis on reading the original judicial opinions–reading closely for the facts of the case and legal nuances. And, you don’t just study legal concepts; you also apply them in a courtroom-style setting.

“How to win in the Courtroom” is not just as an academic course but also as a preparatory experience for those considering trying out for the official Moot Court team in the fall semester. It’s a chance to build confidence, sharpen public speaking skills, and gain experience in persuasive legal reasoning in a supportive classroom setting. It’s an entirely new experience for me—and a challenging one—but also exciting.

Beyond this course, the rest of the summer is filled with creative pursuits and professional development opportunities for all LEAP Ambassadors. With new responsibilities, fresh academic challenges, and creative pursuits, this summer promises to be both busy and rewarding. Even though it’s technically a break, it’s the perfect time to stay engaged with coursework, contribute to meaningful projects, and continue growing both personally and professionally. Here’s to a strong and promising start to the summer semester for everyone!