Phi Alpha Delta Members visit Cleveland-Marshall College of Law.
Phi Alpha Delta, Ohio University’s Pre-Law Fraternity, spent Veteran’s Day weekend traveling to Columbus and Cleveland visiting four Ohio law schools. Approximately 40 students, ranging from freshman to seniors, went on the trip.
The trip included visits at Capital University Law School, Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, Case Western Reserve University School of Law, and Cleveland-Marshall College of Law.
Taylor Hagen, a senior studying Sociology-Criminology, recalled Case Western as the most impressive school.
“They were extremely welcoming and even had a faculty member come in on a Saturday to teach us a mini criminal law class. Their facilities were beautiful, and the law school is right next to the botanical gardens and art museum in University Circle, which is a great location,” she said.
The freshmen who went on the trip found it helpful in many ways, such as guiding them in the direction of applying to law schools as well as helping them to decide if law school is a good choice for them.
“It was intimidating at first to visit all the law schools, but I’m glad I did. I learned what law schools are looking for in applicants and what I need to accomplish in the next three years,” said freshman Elle Hudak.
Abby Bentley, another freshman on the trip, said, “I think the trip helped me because I’m not entirely sure if I want to go to law school yet, but touring the schools helped me get an idea about what I should expect and how I can be prepared if I do decide to go.”
Phi Alpha Delta had the opportunity to speak with Ohio University alumni who are currently enrolled in law school at each school, as well as a chance to speak with faculty and staff about the opportunities that each school had to offer.
To conclude the weekend, Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Administrative and Presiding Judge John Russo spoke to the group about his experience in law and being a judge.
“Judge Russo offered great insight for what it looks like to work in the state courts and, thus, in the criminal justice system,” said Keeghan White, president of Phi Alpha Delta. “For PAD members considering public interest law, it was inspiring to get to talk to a man of such distinction, who still has so much passion for what he does. We were able to ask him questions about law schools we had just toured, the Cleveland job market, and much more. It was a great way to end our trip.”
Larry Hayman, CLJC Pre-Law Specialist & Advisor and Phi Alpha Delta’s adviser, said, “This was a meaningful experience for each of the students who went on the trip, from first year students to seniors. Observing a law school class and meeting with current law students and professors is helpful in allowing students to assess whether legal education may be a good fit for them. Additionally, students who have made the decision to attend law school should visit law schools before making their final commitments. Every school has its own feel, and a student should feel comfortable in a place where they will be spending much of their next three years,” Hayman said.
This trip was made possible by the executive board of Phi Alpha Delta as well as the Senate Appropriations Commission of Student Senate.
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