Brandeis alums, professors and 3Ls offer words of encouragement to new students

To the newcomers navigating their way through the halls of Brandeis School of Law for the first time: Welcome. We’re so happy you’re here.

We’re sure you’ve all heard the narratives about law school; the horror stories about stress and anxiety and information overload.

To help make your transition as easy as possible, a handful of Brandeis alums, professors and 3Ls offered up pieces of advice for you to follow. They’ve walked these halls and have so far mastered their crafts. They’re good resources to have, and their words of wisdom are below.

Good luck!

“Keep in focus what the end result is that you are aiming to achieve by attending law school.  Those are the foundations that you will build upon throughout your life and legal career.” – 3L Matthew Dutcher

"It's hard to imagine so early on in the process, but know that everyone will eventually find their niche both in school and in the legal profession. Do all the class readings, utilize your professor's office hours, and seek out guidance from upperclassmen and local practitioners. Do all these and you'll be golden!" – 3L and SBA President Rudy J. Ellis III

“It’s easier to keep up than to catch up.  Making daily incremental progress toward goals is better and produces better work than trying to do it all at once at the last minute.” – Professor Tim Hall

“Be yourself, and pay no mind to what your classmates say outside of class discussion and study group. There is no one ‘right’ answer, even when the ‘rule’ seems clear. Be a leader, not a follower, and speak your mind in class. Also, KNOW YOUR PROFESSORS. And if you follow my advice hitherto, your Professors will know you. They are your guides and greatest tools here. You got this.” – Dave Johnson, 3L

“There is not one way to be a lawyer. If you are open to opportunities and willing to take risks, you will find the lawyer that works for you.” – Alum Laura Landenwich (’07)

“Come to class prepared, embrace the exchange of ideas, and be friendly to your classmates.  In school and in life, you will need them.” – Professor Justin Walker

“Be kind to people, even when they don't deserve it.” – Alum Dan Canon (’07)

“Make sure you pay close attention in your Civil Procedure class. Contrary to popular belief, you will use it every day.  Make sure you shadow an attorney that practices in your field of interest as often as possible. A real life courtroom differs drastically from anything you may learn in textbooks.” – Alum Dawn Elliott (’07)

“Be sure this is what you want to do, as there are many things you can do with a law degree and the changing the world for people is not the norm. You are usually just moving paper around.” – Alum Shannon Fauver (’03)

“My advice is to follow the advice of Louis Brandeis – keep your life balanced. He once said, ‘I soon learned I could do twelve months work in eleven months, but not in twelve.’ Be sure to have the facts before judging.” – Professor Laura Rothstein

“Channel the frustrations, stresses, and demands of studying law toward the important realization that these challenges are not a reason to panic or doubt, but rather a reason to double down on the essential role of lawyers in our community making the density and complexity of the law accessible to all.” – Professor Jamie Abrams

“Get involved with something. There are plenty of organizations and groups in the law school. My experience here has been great because I’ve been involved. It helps with networking and building relationships with people other than those you sit beside in class every day,” – 3L Madison Shoffner

“Life does not stop for law school.  Things will happen that affect your life in ways you would have never predicted before you started this journey.  Don’t let whatever life throws your way keep you from finishing this journey.  The professors and staff are there to help you! If you ask them they will. Trust me. I could not have finished law school without their help and support.” – Alum Amanda Birman (’15)

“Don’t be afraid to fail. Fear of failure has kept more people from reaching their potential than actual failure ever has. Trust yourself, trust your vision, and don’t be afraid to fail. As for law school, pace yourself and learn how to manage your time so you can continue to lead a balanced life. If you can’t do it in law school, you won’t be able to do it as a lawyer.” – Alum John S. Friend (’12)

“Take time to explore many different areas of the law. You might discover that you really enjoy an area of law that you never imagined you would. Also seek out mentors. They can be professors but really should be people in a variety of different practices. Networking is the key and people are always willing to offer advice and support. Just be appreciative and humble – it’s amazing where those positive attributes will get you.” – Cassie Blausey (’14)