Michael Mann

Michael Mann
Class of 2021

What undergraduate degree do you have?

I received a Bachelor of Science degree from Murray State University, where I majored in Agricultural Business and minored in Military Science. 

What is your hometown?
I grew up on a farm in Washington County, Kentucky, which is about an hour south of Louisville. 

What do you love most about your family?
The thing I love most about my family is how I know for a fact that they have my back and they know I have theirs. I grew up on a farm with my parents and younger brother and sister. We have been through a lot together and they have taught me strength. Family is the single most important thing to me.

What made you want to serve your country?

Originally, I joined the service because my dad was in for over 30 years. He served and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. I enlisted in the Kentucky Army National Guard in 2012, and left to Fort Benning, Georgia shortly after my high school graduation. 

What are you most proud of?
After completing the ROTC program and upon graduation from college, I commissioned as a Finance Officer in the Kentucky National Guard in 2017, serving in the 101st Airborne Division MCPOD.   

I worked in Washington D.C. for a year for Congressman Comer and Congressman Guthrie before starting law school.

Why do you want to be a lawyer?
I want to be a lawyer because I want to help people in agriculture. Whether it be through policy or protecting them and their interests, I want to give back to those who feed and clothe us.

What do you like most about Louisville Law?
My favorite part of my time at the law school has been the Ordered Liberty Program, which has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. 

In five years, I want to be...
Upon graduating from law school and passing the bar, I intend to (finally after nine years of hard work) accomplish my dream of being a Judge Advocate General in the Kentucky National Guard.

How have you changed since you started law school?
My writing has greatly improved since my 1L year. That is definitely one of the things I have worked hardest on and have seen some great results. I have also become a more competent thinker and problem solver.

What would you tell a 1L about law school and/or life?
My advice to 1Ls — get some smart friends. I’m joking, but a good support system of friends in law school definitely helps. I have a good one and am grateful for my friends. Additionally, if you feel overwhelmed, keep working. When things get hectic, I wake up early and head to school to work on things. My most productive hours are sometimes between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. because everyone else is still sleeping.

How do you cope when times are challenging?
To cope with struggle, I always tell myself that the challenge in front of me will be over soon enough. Whether that be through accomplishing the challenge, working through issues with other people, or inner challenges, this strategy has done wonders for me.

Your favorite quote?
"A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both."- President Dwight Eisenhower