Networking and Career Development Services Opportunities

Criminal law. Immigration law. International law. Health law. Animal law. Entertainment law. Tax law. The list goes on and on. There are so many different areas and specialties in the law and seemingly only three years to figure out what to do, which track to take, and how to do it. What is one to do?!

Fortunately, being a student at Loyola provides countless opportunities to learn more about the different areas of the law that one may be interested in practicing, may have never even considered practicing, or may have never even heard of!

For example, Loyola holds what’s known as the Dean’s Den series, in which Dean Waterstone has conversations with different faculty members about their background, work, and specialty. It’s a great way to learn more about that area of the law you may be learning about in class or even the specialty you’re considering. Even better, it’s a great way to learn more about your professors, which could be the gateway to networking with them, having more in-depth conversations about the area of law that you both have interest in or passion for, and learning about potential research or work opportunities with them that someone like you could do!

Another opportunity is through the various panels, workshops, socials, and meetings held by on-campus clubs. For example, I am part of the Entertainment and Sports Law Society (ESLS), and I particularly enjoy when they hold panels with alumni and friends of Loyola that serve in all different positions and capacities within the entertainment industry. Last semester, ESLS held a panel with members from the different legal departments of the Walt Disney Company, and they discussed multiple topics such as what they do on a daily basis, how they got to where they were, and how to succeed in the profession. I for one originally came to Loyola with significant interest in immigration law, but since attending the various ESLS panels and presentations, my interest in entertainment law, specifically the transactional side, has been piqued.

Thus, it’s okay to know exactly what you want when you start law school, be torn, or have absolutely no idea! Loyola provides several events, such as the ones aforementioned and others including On-Campus Interviews (OCI), Brown Bag Lunches, and Spring Law Reception, to help students learn more about the different areas of the law and the various work and volunteer opportunities that are accepting applications. Moreover, there are academic and practical opportunities such the clinics, practicum, and concentrations that allow students to get a more in-depth look into an area of the law and really explore their interests.

So go into law school with an open heart and an open mind! You never know what you might find yourself interested in and doing!

Until next time friends!