They say a dog is a man’s best friend, but they can also be a flier’s best friend. I learned this while volunteering as a K9 decoy at the George Bush Intercontinental Airport, and it was truly one of the coolest experience I’ve had!
This program is part of TSA’s Passenger Screening Canine (PSC) initiative. It’s designed to enhance passenger safety by using canine assisted detection to help prevent the unauthorized entry of explosive materials into airports. These highly trained K9 teams and their handlers work together in real-world environments to detect potential threats before they happen. Volunteers like me help create realistic scenarios that prepare these teams for the real thing.
Before beginning, I received a safety briefing which covered everything I needed to know. Volunteers are given instructions on what to wear, what not to do, and how to behave. The idea is to look and act like a real airline passenger. All details regarding the type, placement, and quantity of training aids used during training are classified information.
My job is easy! Blend in like any other traveler. The day was divided into three training phases:
First, I walked through the security lane as if I were preparing to go through TSA screening;
Then, I meandered through the terminal hallways and blend in with big groups of people.
Finally, I sat in the boarding gate waiting area as passengers do before a flight.
Throughout each phase, the K9 teams used their sense of smell to detect any concealed training aids. When a dog identified a training aid, they would signal their trainer/handler that something was amiss.
The dogs were rewarded with their favorite toys to reinforce positive behavior.
But it’s not just the dogs having training, the handlers are learning too. They practice interpreting their dog’s signals and ensure their K9 stays focused and well-behaved in the airport. Many of these dogs begin training around one year old and continue working until they retire. Recently, a K9 retired at 11 years old!
This experience gave me a new appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that goes into keeping travelers safe. The K9 teams and their handlers are highly skilled, and it was inspiring to see them in action.
Although the volunteerism was just a small action on my part, there is a sense of pride that comes with contributing to the safety of our airports and airlines, while also learning more about our security systems in practice. It is, in short, a perfect education for a student wanting to go into a law-enforcement career!
The LEAP Center is always looking for new ways to offer opportunities for SHSU students, and this fall, the Center has partnered with the FBI to offer a “Collegiate Academy.” The program, which takes place on Wednesday, November 12, offers up to 50 students an exposure to the FBI, its operations, its investigations, and potential careers with the agency.
Hosted by the FBI’s Houston field office, the program will offer (1) an FBI career panel, (2) a deep dive into art-related crime, and (3) live demonstrations. This unique opportunity is designed to offer transparent views of the FBI’s work, encourage an understanding of its mission, and potentially recruit students for careers in the FBI. It is one of many FBI-focused programs offered by SHSU’s LEAP Center.
LEAP Students Meet With FBI Agent Christopher Combs
Students from all majors are eligible to apply, but it is a competitive process. Only students with a 3.0 GPA (cumulative and SHSU) will be considered, and the FBI only considers students who are legally in the United States. Both SHSU and the FBI are involved in the selection process, with an SHSU committee selecting on various criteria (GPA, involvement in LEAP programs, career goals, organizational activities), and the FBI running background checks on students for clearances. Students should submit a professional resume using the model offered by Career Success Center and LEAP (which can be found at the bottom of this page) and submitting it while filling out the application.
LEAP Students Hear From FBI Director Christopher Wray
Students who apply to the program should have a good faith belief that they can be free from class and work obligations on Wednesday, November 12. Professor Yawn will send a note requesting an excused absence on behalf of accepted students, but it is the Professor’s discretion to decide whether to accept such an absence and whether to allow makeup work.
Pre-Law Society Students Hear From Former FBI Asst Director Frank Figliuzzi
The LEAP Center will rent a bus and provide transportation, with a departure time between 7:00am-7:15am. The program lasts from 9am-Noon, followed by a lunch. Students will likely be back at SHSU’s campus by 4pm.
Students needing more information should contact Professor Mike Yawn. The deadline to apply is October 24, but earlier submissions will be given preference. To apply to the program, fill out the linked form.
Real Time Crime Centers, bomb diffusion, robot dogs, and so much more! Today the LEAP Center had the opportunity to work with Blaine Pyles and Darren Parker from the Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Bomb Squad to present the latest technology in emergency response: Spot, the robotic dog.
The LEAP Ambassadors and I, along with fellows students, enjoyed lunch with Mr. Parker and Mr. Pyles before the presentation. There, we learned about Parker’s time at SHSU, the use of high-pressure water cannons to set off bombs, and the use of Spot in crisis negotiations.
After the engaging lunch, we made our way to the presentation room, drawing interested stares from students and allowing Spot to make robotic friends.
And after being greet by one of our volunteers, Bailey Hopkins…
….Professor Mike Yawn gave a short introduction to the full house at the Future of Emergency Response presentation.
The introduction educated us on the use of Real Time Crime Centers as being good methods for actively recording and catching suspects of crimes. Information on the function of ALPR’s (Automatic License Plate Readers) was also shared. We learned how they assist in the processing of license plates, allowing officers to easily find those with warrants.
With that closing, it was time for Spot to have the “Spot” light.
He, along with his “handlers,” Mr. Parker and Mr. Pyles, provided an overview of his capabilities, which includes: picking up objects; dragging objects; “seeing” through cameras, which are transmitted to apps for the handlers to see; and even setting off combustible devices through the shooting of projectiles.
There was an audible reaction when Spot entered the room, and after permission to photograph was obtained, students took advantage of their phones. Spot did a series of pet tricks: pushups, a dance, a 360, sitting, and he even played dead.
Spot was also able to demonstrate his door-opening abilities, and he picked up a student’s backpack, giving us a glimpse of how he might operate in a crisis situation.
Mr. Pyles and Mr. Parker also discussed how Spot can assist with chemical emergencies: he can be equipped with a chemical reader, providing evidence of the levels of toxins in an environment.
Overall, the experience was a fun and educational way to learn all the different ways technology is transforming all aspects of law enforcement, and I even had a chance to control Spot at the end!
Thank you to Mr. Pyles and Mr. Parker for sharing such amazing technology with us all!
Sam Houston State University’s Center for Law, Engagement, And Politics offers numerous programs for those interested in legal careers. One of the most popular is our Mock LSAT, which is offered every fall (open to all) and spring (open to Pre-Law Society members).
This fall’s practice test occurred yesterday, with Olivia Discon and Michelle Moya coming up early on a Saturday to volunteer, student worker Gabila Flores working, Mike Yawn helping, and Jean Loveall leading the event. To accommodate the record-setting 125 people signed up, the bustling band set up the test in each of the room’s chairs while also providing flyers for a pre-law class in the spring (“Negotiation,” by Professor Chris Thompson).
As people began rolling in around 9am, guests were checked in, pencils and scantrons issued, and soon rules were covered.
Like the real test, the Mock LSAT is given in four sections, each 35 minutes. There are two Logical Reasoning sections, one Reading section, and one experimental section. Over the course of the morning, you could see the students’ energy fade a bit, as the test took its toll.
Getting to law school requires more work than the average post-graduate career or program of study, but with the right mindset and the willingness to take advantages of the resources that the LEAP Center offers–such as the Mock LSAT–law school is within your reach.
There are times when the fields of political science and criminal justice intersect. Today was the case for such an event when Professor Mike Yawn, the director of SHSU’s LEAP Center, was asked to present to the High School Criminal Justice Instructor Training (HSCJIT) Conference held annually on SHSU’s campus and sponsored by the University’s excellent College of Criminal Justice and organized by the wonderful Doris Pratt.
Designed for high-school teachers in the fields of criminal justice, law enforcement, and forensic science, the conference features presentations by experts in myriad disciplines, including: criminal investigations, victimology, forensic DNA, cybercrime, forensic psychology, corrections, and serial murder.
Indeed, Yawn’s session came on the heels of Dr. Mitchel Roth…
…who discussed his research on serial murderers…
…and, following a 15 minute break, Yawn discussed the interdisciplinary use of technology, with an emphasis on first responders.
Covering topics such as smart businesses, smart health devices, smart cities, and Real Time Response Centers, Yawn presented for approximately half-an hour to the 40-plus educators present.
The audience was polite and managed to stay awake (!) during Yawn’s presentation, which involved how technology can be used across major sectors of contemporary life. From ALPRs tracking our vehicles’ movements to the facial recognition of animals so that lost pets can be found.
The teachers really came alive, however, when the Arson and Explosive Squad of the Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office came out to describe their jobs. The “bomb squad,” as they typically known, are licensed police officers–Darren Parker and Blaine Pyles–who specialize in explosives and arson.
Their work can take them to political events, where much explosive-sweeping is required, to large sporting events, to hostage situations and, of course, arson.
They have various equipment to assist with this, including separate robotic assistants, battering rams, state-of-the-art communications, drones, and more. The robotics were the hit of the show…
…but so were the bomb technicians, Parker and Pyles, who approach their job in the spirit of service, with courage, compassion, and competence, qualities on display throughout their presentation.
Indeed, following the event, many of the educators, Professor Yawn, and Parker and Pyles discussed future opportunities for collaboration–a way to benefit the public, higher education, and K-12, a win-win-win.
Many thanks to the College of Criminal Justice (and Ms. Doris Pratt), Darren Parker and Blaine Pyles, and the many high-school educators–all of whom are shaping the next generation of leaders.
The LEAP Center would like to thank LEAP Ambassadors Michelle Moya and Olivia Discon, who stepped up for this event; LEAP Center student worker Gabila Flores, who helped with photos and the blog; and volunteers Bailey Hopkins, Jacob Wessels, and Sofia Soto.
One of the most valuable aspects of the LEAP experience is the chance to learn from leaders who have dedicated their lives to public service. The World Affairs Council regularly provides such opportunities, and at the Royal Sonesta in Houston, we had the privilege of hearing from Admiral John Kirby.
Admiral Kirby began his career in the United States Navy as a Public Affairs Officer, which eventually led him to serve as Press Secretary for the Pentagon and later as Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council. Having worked under both the Obama and Biden administrations, Admiral Kirby has long been at the center of national security, communications, and public affairs.
The evening’s conversation, emceed by Sandiya Bayot…
…and introduced by WAC Board Chair Ken Tubman (President of PPA Resources)…
…and moderated by our good friend Ronan O’Malley, touched on a wide range of issues: foreign affairs with superpower nations, military missions and operations, the role of the media, and the importance of sharing information responsibly.
One of Admiral Kirby’s first reflections was on the difficulty of his role: explaining tough decisions to the American people. He emphasized that while he could not alter the facts or decisions already made, his responsibility was to provide clarity about why those decisions were in the nation’s best interest and how different choices might have carried heavier consequences.
On military matters, Admiral Kirby spoke about the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Afghanistan, and broader concerns about military culture. Regarding Russia, he explained how U.S. intelligence delayed some of Vladimir Putin’s plans and stressed the importance of declassifying information when possible. By making certain intelligence public, the U.S. can share insights with allies and citizens without compromising sources.
Reflecting on Afghanistan, he noted how the Vietnam War left a strained relationship between the press and the military. Later, steps were taken to rebuild trust, such as embedding reporters with platoons during the Bush administration. This gave journalists firsthand experience and allowed them to write more accurate, informed accounts for the American people.
Even with these improvements, Admiral Kirby expressed concern that military service is increasingly becoming “a family business,” passed down through generations. While traditions of service are admirable, he worries this could widen the divide between those who serve and the broader public. For him, bridging that gap remains essential.
A recurring theme throughout the evening was the power of stories and information. Admiral Kirby explained that every story matters, and sharing them connects the military to the people it serves. Stories, he said, keep the world turning.
The conversation then turned toward media and technology. Admiral Kirby noted that while the rapid spread of information makes misinformation difficult to contain, it also provides powerful opportunities when used correctly. He drew comparisons across history: President Kennedy mastering live television, Roosevelt using photography, and Lincoln embracing the telegraph. For today’s leaders, the revolutionizing force is technology and social media, and Admiral Kirby stressed the importance of adapting to it.
One of his most powerful points was that, regardless of political party, Americans ultimately want “information, not confirmation.” Rational decision-making, he reminded us, depends on honest, clear information.
On a personal note, I had the chance to meet Admiral Kirby before the event. As we arranged for a group photo, he asked me about my studies and future goals. When I shared that I wanted to become an attorney and later involve myself in politics, he responded with a smile: “You’ve got it, go get ’em!”
That moment reflected what made the entire evening so meaningful. Admiral Kirby has a rare ability to connect with people, whether addressing an audience of hundreds or speaking one-on-one. His insights were powerful, but it was his ability to inspire and make each person feel included in the conversation that left a lasting impression.
This event will remain one of my favorites from the World Affairs Council.
Being a part of the LEAP program isn’t just about preparing for a career in law –it’s about learning to see the world through a new lens. I came to understand this during a presentation in Professor Yawn’s UNIV 1101 Pre-Law class, where LEAP Ambassadors Olivia McCaughan and Michelle Moya outlined the program and highlighted the wide range of opportunities it offers.
Through LEAP, students gain access to experiences that prepare them for the future—ranging from civic engagement, like volunteering at the Main Street Program’s Scare on the Square (which I look forward to participating in this October), to hearing from special guest speakers, to interning in Washington, D.C., Austin, and local government. I was especially delighted to learn that LEAP is not limited to students pursuing law school, but is open to anyone interested in making a difference in their community through civic work. LEAP members don’t volunteer to meet a quota, but rather to get involved in ways that are meaningful, impactful, and connected to their communities.
My first-year experience has also been shaped by UNIV 1101, a pre-law course designed to introduce students to the field. Professor Yawn’s daily quizzes extend a vast array of subjects, from LSAT prep to Emotional Intelligence to LEAP Ambassadors Olivia Discon and Michelle Moya’s Parasailing trip. True to law school style, at the end of each short quiz, students are called on to announce their answers to the class! On a whole, Univ 1101 has proven to be a very detail-oriented class, reminding our group of prospective lawyers the importance of every detail, even those that seem menial.
This focus on preparation carried into another highlight of my week: attending my first Pre-Law Society meeting alongside several of my UNIV 1101 classmates. We learned about several prospective law schools, including the University of Houston Law Center, South Texas College of Law, and Texas Tech Law, directly from their admissions representatives. We even received Pre-Law Society t-shirts, signifying our official place in the program! I also had the chance to meet our organization’s leaders as they reviewed the agenda and introduced our guest speakers.
As Michelle Moya explained, the Pre-Law Society is just one branch of the broader LEAP program. I’m eager to explore each branch throughout my four years at Sam Houston, confident that every experience—whether in the classroom, the community, or beyond—will bring me closer to the leader and lawyer I aspire to be.
Olivia McCaughan, Allison Plunk, and Michelle Moya
It’s always exciting to begin a new semester in the Pre-Law Society, but this was especially the case this year, when we set a new record for members with 144! The lines delayed the meeting a bit…
…but the wait was worth it: we had Deans of Admission from South Texas College of Law (Nakita Wanza), University of Houston Law Center (Pilar Mensah), and Texas Tech University School of Law (Danielle Saavedra). With a general session moderated by President Olivia Discon and breakout sessions that followed, it was a semester’s worth of information into one record-breaking meeting.
General Body Meeting
Not wanting our minimal business reports to get in the way of the main program, President Discon and the officers moved rapidly through the business.
It was, however, the panelist’s evening. President Discon did an excellent job moderating the event, and we learned information that is useful for pre-law students everywhere.
How important are grades and the LSAT?
Very important! While this is to be expected, many students may not realize that (1) law schools look at your cumulative GPA–grades from dual credit, community colleges transferred in, repeated grades (the original grades are factored back into the GPA for law school)–and (2) the LSAT is the only indicator they have that is common to all students who apply. Keep those grades up and make appropriate plans to spend the necessary time on LSAT studying–the latter of which demonstrates times management, a much needed skill in law school.
What do law schools look for in personal statements and letters of recommendation?
All three Deans emphasized the personal statements, noting that they were looking for authenticity. This is the chance for the students to provide information provided only by a personal statement and to provide an insight into the applicant’s true self. For those who wish to present their true selves through AI, Deans of Admissions can tell. Moreover, applicants should (1) follow instructions and (2) proof read. You’d think this would be common sense, but every year, law schools receive personal statements addressed to other schools, longer than the permitted length, or responsive to prompts not provided by the school.
Similar care should be taken with letters of recommendation. Some students may be tempted to ask the professor they liked the most, or they thought was “cool,” or someone whom they spoke with often. But law schools want to hear from professors who have seen the student’s writing, (critical) thinking skills, and reading ability. If the class didn’t require any of these things, or if you didn’t earn a strong grade in the class, seeking letters elsewhere might be your best bet. Dean Mensah also encouraged students to have their letter writers identified by their junior year, rather than waiting to the last minute–another time management lesson!
Additional Information
The schools emphasized the importance of taking this process seriously and the importance of character. Of course, character can reflect a student’s priorities–such as grades and the LSAT–dedication to those priorities, and those who possess integrity will carry that trait with them into law school, and one hopes, to their career beyond.
President Discon also introduced Michael Chambers, an SHSU alum (class of 2023) who is a 2L at South Texas College of Law. He emphasized the importance of hard work, asking questions when needed, and applying oneself in an area of interest.
With this foundation, the general body meeting was adjourned, and students left for breakout sessions, each of which featured a presentation from a different school.
South Texas College of Law (STCL)
by Katherine Burnett
The South Texas College of Law session was led by Associate Director of Admissions, Ms. Nakita Wanza, along with 3L law student and SHSU alum, Michael Chambers. Ms. Wanza began by walking students through the “holy trinity” of law school applications: the LSAT, the personal statement, and letters of recommendation. She emphasized the importance of researching every school you’re considering—especially their median LSAT scores—and setting that as a target when preparing.
Once the basics were covered, the discussion shifted to opportunities available at STCL. These include internships, legal clinics, student ambassador positions (which Michael called the “best job ever”), moot and mock court, journals, and more. Michael shared personal insights about his law school journey, noting that success comes from daily study habits but also from keeping a flexible schedule. He reassured students that “cold calling” isn’t as terrifying as it’s made out to be—it feels more like a conversation once you get used to it.
Michael also discussed how summers in law school are “what you make of them,” whether through internships, travel, or taking a break. On the topic of grades, he explained that law school’s suspenseful grading system makes it harder to track progress, but the best indicator of understanding is whether you truly know what’s happening in class.
The session wrapped up in just thirty minutes with Nakita and Michael encouraging students to study hard, stay open-minded, and remember that law school is within reach.
University of Houston Law Center
By Madison Cawthon
In another breakout session, we heard from Pilar Mensah, Assistant Dean of Admissions at the University of Houston Law Center–which we toured on August 1! Dean Mensah shared valuable details about UH’s programs, starting with the flexibility of part-time and full-time options, as well as the availability of dual degree pathways alongside the JD.
She also highlighted UH’s wide variety of legal courses, student organizations, and other opportunities for involvement, along with the amenities and on-campus housing available to law students.
These resources, she explained, help foster both academic and community life at UH Law.
Toward the end of the session, Dean Mensah offered insight into what admissions officers are really looking for in applicants, sharing her perspective on how to stand out in the process. She then opened the floor to questions, giving students the chance to engage with her directly about both law school in general and the UH Law experience specifically.
Texas Tech School of Law
by Madison Thurkettle
Danielle Saavedra, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Director of First-Generation Resources at Texas Tech Law School, brought an encouraging perspective to the session.
For many, applying to law school can feel daunting, but Dean Saavedra worked to replace that sense of intimidation with confidence and motivation.
She began by highlighting the importance of undergraduate years in the admissions process. Law schools carefully consider your GPA from the first three years of college, but she reminded us not to view “median numbers” as immovable barriers. While GPA and LSAT scores matter, Texas Tech looks beyond the numbers, valuing the strengths, experiences, and qualities that make each applicant unique.
On the LSAT, Dean Saavedra stressed preparation and time management but also reminded us that the exam does not define who we are—it’s simply one more step toward a legal career. She also shared practical admissions advice: timing is critical, and applying in the fall helps your application stand out.
Dean Saavedra highlighted the personal statement as one of the most important components of an application. She urged students to follow instructions carefully and to write authentically, rather than trying to predict what admissions officers want to hear. She even admitted that she wished she had reached out to admissions when she was applying, encouraging us not to hesitate with questions.
She closed with a reminder to adopt a growth mindset. Law school, like the application process itself, comes with challenges, but each obstacle is an opportunity to learn and improve—a mindset that will serve us well far beyond admissions.
Concluding Thoughts
With 144 members–one of the largest organizations on campus–and a top-notch panel, members left the meeting with a bounce in their step, despite the late hour. They also have a renewed sense of mission, understanding the importance of committing oneself to a course of study, behaving with integrity, and managing their time and energy toward their highest priorities–qualities that, incidentally, are valuable in all courses of study, careers, and in life.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 