Tag: Pre-Law Society

So You Want To Go To Law School…

At the beginning of each semester, the Pre-Law Society hosts an informational for those who are considering a future involving law school. For the past year and a half, the person leading this informational has been President Olivia Discon, and she again welcomed returning and prospective members.

She also did her usual effective job at describing the organization, highlighting upcoming events, and providing an overview of how to prepare for law school. Highlighting the organization, Discon stressed that the commitment is purposefully light: one official meeting per month. For those with more time and ambition, however, there are at least as many unofficial meetings–socials, mock LSATs, simulated law classes, live hearings, and guest speakers. The goal is to allow students to obtain the information they need but have the time necessary to study for the LSAT.

Indeed, this semester is likely to bring the usual share of events. These include:

  • September 17: “How to Get Into Law School,” with Admissions Deans from Texas Tech Law, University of Houston Law, and South Texas College of Law;
  • October 15: “Law at the Local Level”
  • November 19: Litigation in Action

Moreover, students will have the opportunity to try out for Moot Court (September 8), and if they make it, they will have a scrimmage (October 11-12) and a live tournament at Texas A&M Law. The organization and its parent department, LEAP, will also host a Mock LSAT (October 4), and will likely participate with the Student Legal & Mediation Services for conflict resolution seminars.

Perhaps the most useful information provided by the Pre-Law Society, however, is information pertaining to the law-school path. Throughout a student’s college career, the Pre-Law Society and the LEAP Center offers services that help students achieve their goals. This includes a lending library, scholarships for prep courses, law-school advising, and workshops.

To join PLS, new members pay $55 and returning members $25. Hard-working co-treasurers Jacob Wessels and Olivia McCaughan are available:

  • Tuesdays: 12:30-4:15
  • Wednesdays: 12-4
  • Thursdays: 2:00-4:15

They will also take dues from 5-6pm on September 17, the date of the first official meeting–and, importantly, the last date to pay dues.

After the informational meeting, students had the ability to chat one-on-one with Pre-Law Society Officers and members. Many students who joined us gained a hopeful view on their future from like-minded individuals.

To stay up to date and involved with upcoming events and information, you can follow our Instagram @prelawsocietyshsu. For more information and questions, please contact President, Ms. Olivia Discon, at Oliviadiscon@shsu.edu.

Reflections from the Capitol: A Day of Service, History, and Perspective in Austin

by Olivia Discon

I recently had the opportunity to visit the Texas Capitol and share a few reflections from my term as student regent. I was invited by the Governor’s Appointments Office to speak to the newly appointed student regents, which was a real honor—and a full-circle moment I didn’t take lightly. I wanted to make the most of the opportunity and my time in Austin.

One of the biggest highlights of the day was being invited to the Governor’s Mansion. After a quick security check by DPS, I had the chance to tour one of the most historic and iconic buildings in Texas. The Greek Revival-style mansion was designed by Abner Cook—who, interestingly, also supervised the construction of the Walls Unit in Huntsville. That connection alone was enough to trigger my compulsive need to tie Sam Houston into everything.

Photo Courtesy of The Office of Governor Greg Abbott

I’ll admit I was a little photo-shy walking through the mansion, but that didn’t stop a few photos from happening. To my surprise, I got to greet Governor Abbott again and take a quick photo with him—inside his house, no less. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Being appointed as a student regent during my undergrad was an incredible opportunity, and I’ve felt supported at every level of my college experience. That support made moments like this possible.

As we made our way through the mansion, we passed through rooms filled with stunning 18th-century furniture—and, of course, nods to Sam Houston in almost every one. They even have a room named after him. Seeing this more glamorous side of Houston’s life, and then comparing it to his final years at the Steamboat House in Huntsville, was oddly moving. He was so committed to his principles that he gave up comfort for conviction. It’s just one of the reasons Huntsville has such a strange charm to me. Somehow, all roads in Texas lead back to it.

Even though the Governor’s Mansion is a historic landmark, it’s still a lived-in space. Just outside the window, we caught a glimpse of the Abbott family’s three golden retrievers playing in the yard. The timing of the visit couldn’t have been better—it was a great reminder of how historic homes can still be part of everyday life, thanks to organizations like the Friends of the Governor’s Mansion.

Photo Courtesy of SHSU LEAP Center, 2016

Later that afternoon, I joined Chris Covo, a former student regent for the Texas State University System, and Luke Shwartz, who was recently appointed student regent for the UT System (congrats again, Luke!). We sat down with Brent Connett for a moderated conversation about the role, what surprised us, and what advice we’d offer.

For me, the biggest takeaway was this: being a good representative can open more doors than you might expect. Investing in your professionalism, doing your research, and showing up prepared—not because you’ve “made it,” but because you’re serious about learning—goes a long way. When you present yourself as someone competent and curious, people take notice. You get to be in the room for real conversations and real opportunities.

After the panel, I stopped by to see my good friend Michelle Cardenas, who was deep in the legislative trenches as session wrapped up. She took a much-needed breather and walked me through the Governor’s Reception Hall. Watching her in action, compared to where we started—back when we walked into the Capitol for the first time with LEAP—was surreal. We’re in completely different places now, but there’s something meaningful about knowing LEAP brought us both here.

Electric Gravy
For dinner, I continued on my sappy tirade by joining Cinthia Villarreal and Michelle Cardenas at an Indian fusion restaurant—Electric Gravy.

It’s been getting a lot of local attention, including a recommendation from former LEAP Ambassador Saara Maknojia.

We started with the curry queso (which was excellent), and then I had the chicken tinga curry, Cinthia got the chicken masala, and Michelle went with the pork vindaloo. All of it was solid—definitely a fun place worth checking out.

Mount Bonnell
To wrap up the day, I visited Mount Bonnell for a great view of Lady Bird Lake. It ended up being the perfect spot to close out a long day—quiet, scenic, and full of the kind of quirky passersby you can only find in Austin.

The sun didn’t set until about 8:30 p.m., but once it started going down, it dropped fast.

I might be wrong, but I think this was the first time I ever intentionally watched a sunset. It was a nice experience!

Murder Most Foul: An April Adios

For all Pre-Law Society members, our April was the last get together of the academic year. But for one unlucky member, it was, at least in the world of fictional fun, the last meeting ever. That’s because our social involved a murder mystery, something of a theme for our sinister solicitors.

Our officers and activity committee put together treats to bribe encourage us to attend, and it worked!

A healthy 30 or so students attended, a reflection of our growing sociality as an organization.

Mikaela Baires was the unlucky victim. Indeed, she was doubly unlucky, inasmuch as the murder weapon was a laxative, giving new meaning to Shakespeare’s phrase “murder so foul” (thankfully, we did not meet at the beautiful Wynne Home this year…).

The suspects were Mikaela’s peers: Chrissy Biello…

Jose Carreno…

Katherine Burnett…

Madison Cawthon…

Neehal Ahmed…

and Niya Thompson.

Given the suspects–any one of whom is capable of such a dastardly act–it was going to be a tough evening for our social sleuths.

Thankfully, there were four clues uncovered, and throwing Miranda out the window, the suspects were questioned without their lawyers being present.

After much debate, hand-wringing, and interrogation, the law-enforcement, apparently imitating the Keystone Kops, accused the wrong person–Katherine Burnett–perhaps motivated by a strong desire to sequester her from society for eternity, or at least until they graduate.

In fairness, the actual murderer, Jose Carreno, broke the rules of the game and lied. Who knew a murderer would lie about his whereabouts? Following the game, Jose vowed that, “when things have settled a bit, I will pursue as my primary goal in life the killer or killers who slaughtered Nicole and Mr. Goldman…Mikaela Baires.”

On a happier note, Madison Cawthon led the speed debating contest.

Befitting our status as future lawyers in society–and, perhaps, lawmakers–we spent our time arguing over trivialities ending in ludicrous judgments.

Neehal Ahmed, for example, argued that it should be illegal to text a single “k” to indicate affirmation via messaging.

The debate over whether “ttyl” should be punishable by firing squad was tabled. And thank God we didn’t even get to people who use odd text colors or emojis.

It was a fitting and fun end to a record-breaking semester. With 116 members–well, now just 115 members (sorry Mikaela)–PLS garnered its largest membership ever, donated funds to a scholarship and enrichment fund, and offered pre-law students some amazing events and programs. We can’t wait to see what never year brings!

SHSU Pre-Law Among Top in Nation

Few schools offer as much as SHSU when it comes to preparing students for a career as an attorney. Sam Houston has a dedicated pre-law advising center (the LEAP Center), offers law-related internships, features a robust Pre-Law Society, boasts extensive programming, sports a Moot Court team, and ranks among the top four percent in North American Universities as a “law-school feeder,” according to the Law School Admissions Council.

One small part of this equation is students’ access to free practice LSATs under supervised conditions, professionally scored. Each long semester, the LEAP Center hosts a Mock LSAT, where students–freshmen to post-grad–can come in and take the LSAT under test-like conditions. In the past year, more than 100 students have availed themselves of this option.

This includes 45 students who showed up today, on a rainy Saturday morning for a three-hour test.

All of them are part of the Pre-Law Society at SHSU, one of the largest academic organizations on campus, and one of the largest pre-law organizations in Texas.

The simulated test provides many advantages: (1) it provides test-day conditions for the LSAT, giving students a better idea of what to expect on the day of their real test; (2) it gives students an idea of how close they are to achieving their desired score; and (3) it allows them to compete for the Pre-Law Society scholarship for LSAT test preparation.

These advantages are just some of the reasons that SHSU ranks among the top LSAT feeders in the country. Of course, that ranking also reflects the fact that SHSU students are sufficiently dedicated to their studies and their futures that will awake early on a Saturday and sit through a grueling test.

For the motivated students at SHSU or who might be considering SHSU for their pre-law studies, advising is available at the LEAP Center. Professor Mike Yawn (mike.yawn@shsu.edu) or Ms. Jean Loveall (jal072@shsu.edu) can assist students with a timeline, steps to take, and, of course, regular opportunities such as the Mock LSAT.

Simulated Law Class with Professor Val Ricks

by Chrissy Biello

Every spring, the Sam Houston Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics invites South Texas College of Law Professor Val Ricks to teach a Mock Law Class. Professor Ricks is a renowned legal mind and a national expert in contracts, among other areas of law.

Approximately thirty students attended this year’s session; any student at Sam Houston State University was able to register for the event. Before the class, participants were expected to prepare with case materials that Professor Ricks provided.

The mock case, Joseph Vian v. Mariah Carey (1993), focused on the legal concept of consideration and whether a valid contract existed between Mr. Vian and Ms. Carey. Professor Ricks opened the session by providing a working definition of law, saying that it revolves around the precise words used in legal documents.

He then employed an analogy comparing law to chess. Finding a self-identified chess player in the audience, Professor Ricks guided students to understand the parallel between chess rules and legal principles. Both systems operate within defined parameters; they require much thinking and a thorough understanding of established rules.

When moving on to the case discussion, Professor Ricks first told the class the facts of the case, then activated his random number generator to begin his use of the Socratic Method. From this, selected students were asked numerous questions about the case; Professor Ricks insisted they cite directly from the text, reinforcing his earlier point that the law is “all about the words.”

Once the class reached a general consensus on the case interpretation, Professor Ricks opened the floor for questions. Pre-Law Society President, Olivia Discon, asked what undergraduate students could do to prepare for law school. After thoughtful consideration, Professor Ricks began to speak on his own experience. He explained that studying scholastic philosophy during his undergraduate years was truly helpful; the language structure closely resembled legal texts, easing his transition into law school. 

By the end of the session, students had not only sharpened their legal reasoning skills but also gained a clearer picture of what to expect in law school. Professor Ricks once again allowed students to sit in the shoes of a law student for an hour.  By challenging students to truly understand the case and come out of their shells, he provided a better understanding of the power of precise language in the study of law.

The Pre-Law Society is Back–Beyond A Reasonable Doubt!

by Olivia Discon

After a quick recess for Winter Break, the Pre-Law Society (PLS) reconvened for our very first (official) meeting of the semester! With many important items to cover, including some general business, exciting upcoming events, and the election of our Secretary and Vice President of Marketing positions for this semester, our members were prepared to deliberate. And in great numbers, as well! Once more, the Pre-Law Society has broken its membership record with an astounding 116 members.

Dr. Chris Thompson, a Business Law Professor at Sam Houston State University and local attorney, joined us as our guest speaker for the evening.

Before jumping into the engaging discussion with Dr. Thompson, there were a few matters to cover. The group, very graciously, allowed me to go over these items and participated in a meeting in accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order. Dr. Thompson would later note that parliamentary procedure is a key element of the legal field, and through such participation, we are gaining valuable experience in our young professional careers.

We had quite a few members who ran for office in PLS. Niya Thompson…

Michelle Moya…

Ashlee Orizaba…

and Jacqueline Santos Romano ran for Vice President of Marketing.

On the other hand, Olivia McCaughan…

and Laila Alimi ran for the Secretary position.

Each of these students did an excellent job articulating their vision for the organization, and we would be proud to have any of them serve as leaders within PLS.

The votes were cast, but while we counted, Dr. Chris Thompson took the podium to have a Q&A session with the students about the legal field. Receiving his undergraduate degree at Stephen F Austin University and his J.D. at St. Mary’s University School of Law, he comes from a wealth of experience and expertise.

He shared that his story isn’t particularly “special”, not to diminish himself or his accomplishments, but rather to emphasize that it was possible for everyone in the room to attend law school. He went over the LSAT and the importance of discipline in studying, the rigor of law school classes, and how he entered the workforce as a young attorney.

What I particularly enjoyed was his reasoning for working in Walker County, both at the DA’s Office for 9 years, and currently, at a local law firm. Having lived in Huntsville and having family in the area, serving in a local capacity seemed natural. However, it was the idea of working to do “what is right” and doing so for the people in his community, that made that decision all the more admirable.

The Q&A concluded with one final question: “If you could go back and start your law school journey all over again, what would you change?” He replied: “To learn how to use commas and semicolons”–a lesson that the members would do well to take to heart.

At last, the verdict is in! Laila Alimi secured the position of Secretary! But our VP of Marketing position required a runoff between Niya Thompson and Michelle Moya. Niya ultimately won the vote to serve as our VP of Marketing for the semester.

Congratulations were in order, along with a photo of our new team. I look forward to working with them and seeing what all we will accomplish together this semester!

Stay tuned for our next meeting, which will be held on March 19, and it will include a series of hands-on workshops over various topics– all designed to help students grow professionally and progress toward their law-school dreams.