Hometown: Spartanburg, South Carolina

Undergrad institution: University of South Carolina Honors College, bachelor's in political science and government

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? During my time at Rice School of Law, I had the incredible opportunity to clerk for two United States Federal District Court Judges, which provided invaluable insight into the federal judiciary system and strengthened my legal research and writing skills. I also served as the first student ambassador to the South Carolina Access to Justice Commission, where I helped expand conversations about access to justice across the state. Additionally, I had the privilege of serving as President of the Matthew J. Perry Black Law Students Association, where I worked alongside talented peers to build community and support future legal leaders. I was also honored to moderate a fireside chat with former Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, which provided a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about leadership, justice and public service.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? The past three years have challenged me academically and professionally while also helping me grow personally. Law school taught me how to think critically, communicate clearly, and approach complex problems with confidence. Just as importantly, it taught me resilience and the importance of community. I have been fortunate to learn from faculty and staff who support students as people, not just as future attorneys.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? During law school, I learned that persistence and discipline truly pay off. The process reinforced my ability to stay focused through demanding work while also reminding me to trust my own path. I also discovered how important mentorship and community are in shaping a fulfilling legal career.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I served as President of the Matthew J. Perry Black Law Students Association and was the first student ambassador to the South Carolina Access to Justice Commission. I was also a member of the Mock Trial Competition Team, which helped sharpen my advocacy skills and courtroom presence. Additionally, I served as a Student Ambassador for Admissions, giving tours and helping prospective students learn about the law school community. Through these experiences, I learned the importance of leadership, collaboration, advocacy and mentorship within the legal profession.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? Throughout my time at Rice School of Law, I strengthened my legal research and writing abilities, analytical thinking, and advocacy skills. My involvement with mock trial and leadership roles also helped me develop strong public-speaking, leadership and collaboration skills.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I am interested in pursuing litigation. My experiences clerking for federal district court judges and competing on the Mock Trial Team gave me a firsthand look at the impact of strong advocacy and thoughtful legal analysis in the courtroom, which solidified my interest in litigation.

What's next? After graduation, I will be doing a judicial clerkship. I am excited for the opportunity to continue learning from the judiciary and further develop my litigation and legal analysis skills before beginning my long-term legal career.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In five years, I hope to be developing as a strong advocate and gaining meaningful experience in my legal career. In 10 years and beyond, I hope to continue growing professionally while also mentoring younger attorneys and giving back to the legal community in the same way so many USC alumni have supported me.

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. candidate? My time at the University of South Carolina Rice School of Law has given me more than just a legal education — it has given me a community. I am grateful for the faculty and staff who supported me throughout this journey and for the friendships I built along the way. The people I met here will not only be lifelong friends but also trusted colleagues in the legal profession.

Hometown: Madison, Georgia

Undergrad institution: Georgia Southern University, bachelor’s in criminal justice

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? Two very unique opportunities I have been able to participate in are (1) being a research assistant for the Excellence in Policing and Public Safety Program and (2) being an extern for the Federal Public Defender's Office, Columbia Division. Both programs have allowed me to gain exceptional skills and experience in two areas of law that I am extremely interested in.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? The last three years have shaped and prepared me to be an effective communicator and advocate as a future attorney. Law school is not easy, however, being able to adapt to the challenges presented allows you to grow into a better version of yourself. Which leads to my next point, law school pushed me to be a better version of myself generally. Specifically, I have been able to articulate myself more precisely, and I have been able to communicate more effectively with friends and family.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I love this question! I would not say that I have learned this; however, I have relearned this about myself, and that is that I will do and can do whatever it takes to be proficient. I used to think this way when it came to sports, back in high school, but now, I strive to meet the challenges that law school brings. I feel that whenever school knocks me down, I always find a way to get back up and continue to learn. 

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I have mainly participated in three different student orgs, (1) South Carolina Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys (SCACDL), (2) Public Interest Society (PILS), and (3) Pro Bono. Through my experiences in these orgs I have learned to not take this profession for granted. The legal profession can be extremely effective in righting wrongs, and these organizations help people who can't help themselves because of the lack of judicial resources they may encounter.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? My advocacy and writing skills.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? Criminal law but specifically being a public defender. I always wanted to help the most amount of people effectively, and there is no better avenue to do that than being a public defender.

What's next? I have secured a position at the Richland County Public Defender's office, in Columbia, South Carolina.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? I have no idea where I will be in the future, but what I do know is that I will be advocating my tail off for my clients.

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. Candidate? Though law school has kicked my tail, and I mean KICKED, I value every experience I have made throughout my journey: Including the professors, my mentors, my peers and my friends.

Hometown: Alpharetta, Georgia

Undergrad institution: University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, bachelor’s in computer science

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? I've been able to participate in all kinds of real-world experiences here, from clinic and externships to conferences and study abroad. I've met so many of the key legal players in the state and really do feel like if I wanted to pursue an opportunity, I'd have the school's full support.  

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? The past three years have completely confirmed my decision to become a lawyer. The people I've met here have helped me grow both academically and professionally. 

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I've learned that I am capable of far more than I thought, both personally and professionally. 

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I served as the president of the Children's Advocacy Law Society for two years, where I learned a lot about managing both events and people. I was also a member of the SC Law Review, where I had the opportunity to have my work published. I was able to connect with 1Ls as an LRAW tutor and the education community through my participation in the Education Law Clinic. 

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? My undergrad major was computer science, and I'd been out of school for five years by the time I applied to USC, so I was really nervous about my ability to write. Through both the classes I've taken and the opportunities I've pursued, I've been able to improve my legal writing, and I now feel much more confident!

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I want to pursue juvenile justice. I used to be a teacher, so I came to law school to continue working with kids. I'm passionate about keeping kids out of the system, and I'd like to use the skills and knowledge I've gained here to do that. 

What's next? After graduation, I'll be clerking for Justice Verdin on the South Carolina Supreme Court.  

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In five years, I see myself representing kids. In 10 years or beyond, I'd love to become a judge! 

Hometown: Asheville, North Carolina; she was the first in her family to be born in the U.S.; her family is originally from Colombia.

Undergrad institution: University of Virginia, bachelor's in Medieval and Renaissance Literature

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? One of the most impactful experiences of my time in law school was participating in the Judicial Scholar Program. I spent a month each with the South Carolina Court of Appeals, the South Carolina Supreme Court and Richland County Circuit Court. Those placements allowed me to build meaningful relationships with judges, justices and law clerks while gaining invaluable insight into the judicial decision-making process.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? Professionally, law school has reinforced the importance of collaboration and cultivating strong professional relationships. Personally, it strengthened my resilience, discipline and ability to perform under pressure. The experience challenged me to grow in confidence and composure.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I have learned that I thrive in structured, high-pressure environments and that I am motivated by purposeful work. I discovered the value of adaptability and persistence when facing uncertainty. Law school clarified both my strengths and the areas where I continue striving to improve.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I had the privilege of serving as vice president of the First Generation Law Student Association. Through that role, I learned that while being a first-generation law student can feel daunting, meaningful mentorship and community make a profound difference. It reinforced my commitment to building networks of support for those who follow similar paths.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? I significantly strengthened my legal research, writing and oral advocacy skills. I also developed sharper critical thinking and refined my ability to analyze complex issues strategically and efficiently.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I plan to pursue a career in commercial and business litigation, with a focus on insurance coverage matters. I am drawn to the strategic depth of complex disputes and the responsibility of representing clients in high-stakes litigation. The analytical rigor and advocacy involved in this field strongly align with my interests and strengths.

What's next? Upon passing the Bar Exam, I will join Gallivan, White & Boyd, P.A. as an associate attorney. I look forward to beginning my practice and continuing to learn from experienced attorneys in the field.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In five years, I see myself as a confident associate with a solid foundation of practical skills. In 10 years, I hope to have developed a specialized area of expertise and to mentor younger attorneys. Long term, I aspire to take on leadership roles while maintaining a steadfast commitment to ethical and thoughtful advocacy.

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. candidate? Law school was demanding, but it was transformative. USC Rice School of Law provided the academic rigor and professional development necessary to transition into practice with confidence. I leave prepared to uphold the responsibility and integrity that the profession requires.

Hometown: Neptune, New Jersey

Undergrad/graduate institution: Georgia State University, bachelor’s and M.A. in political science

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? I have had the privilege to participate in several impactful opportunities during my time here at the law school. I have had the opportunity to complete two judicial externships, one with the Richland County Family Court and the other with the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. I have also been able to practice as a student attorney in the Education Rights Clinic, where I represented a family in efforts to obtain special educations services for their child.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? The past three years have shaped me into not only a lawyer but also a person who stands firm in their beliefs and boundaries and one who is not willing to compromise their morals to advance my own interests.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I like to say that I thrive in chaos, but honestly, I have learned to trust that all of the work I put in will pay off, and so far, that has not led me astray. I have also learned that I am much more capable than I think. Even now as a 3L, I am constantly surprising myself, and it is just reassuring to know that I have been equipped to have a successful legal career in the future.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I’ve participated in the following organizations/clinics:

• Black Law Students Association - Community Service Director (2024-2026)
• ABA, Real Property, Trust, and Estate Law Journal - Member (2024-2025); Production Editor (2025-2026)
• 1L Peer Mentor (2024-2026)
• Pro Bono Board - Board Member (2025-2026)
• Education Rights Clinic - Fall 2025

Each one has taught me the value of time management. As someone who has been extremely involved, learning how to manage my priorities has been a skill that I am still working on to this day. However, I think being a part of all these extracurriculars has placed me in a position to be successful in balancing my professional and personal responsibilities once I begin practicing. I have also learned the value of community and how important it is to have one as I navigate through not only law school but also life.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? I have had the opportunity to really grow and refine my legal research and writing skills as well as my client advocacy skills.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I am unsure of what type of law I will be pursuing. I am interested in criminal and family law. However, I hope my judicial clerkship will expose me to new areas that I have not previously considered.

What's next? I will be moving to Greenville, South Carolina, to complete a judicial clerkship. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? I honestly don’t know where I see myself in 5 years. While I have thoughts of what may be, I am a firm believer that everything will work out exactly how it’s supposed to. I do hope that I am in a position where I am doing meaningful work while also pouring into those that will come after me. Long-term, I hope to eventually go in-house for a company or hospital system.

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. candidate? I am extremely grateful for my time at USC Rice Law. I have met some of the most amazing people who have turned into lifelong friends, and I will forever cherish these relationships that I have built over the past few years.

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

Undergrad institution: Michigan State University, bachelor’s in political theory and constitutional democracy

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? I have been able to do some really cool things in my time in law school. I got leadership experience with being the President of the Labor and Employment Law Society, the Associate Managing Editor of the South Carolina Law Review, and the Treasurer of the Jewish Law Student Association. I also got to extern for the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals judge and spent a week in Richmond, Virginia. Lastly, I have had the privilege of being in the Federal Civil Practice Clinic and represented a real client.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? As a lawyer, I am now confident that I can handle problems. Before starting law school, I thought I knew how to read and write, but law school reading and writing is so different. I know that I can take on huge and stressful challenges and work through them. I know that I can take a problem, dissect the issues and create a plan to solve it.

As a person, I believe I am a better communicator and am more patient. You spend a lot of time with many different people at school, and you have to learn how to work and learn from each other. That pushed me to become more flexible and adapt to different people and situations.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I learned that I can make friends in any situation. I left Michigan without knowing anyone in South Carolina. I know have a group of friends from school that will be with me for the rest of my life.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? As President of the Labor and Employment Law Society, I learned how to plan events with lawyer leaders in the community and had to problem solve when things did not go to plan. As the Associate Managing Editor, I learned how to build a community that is supportive. In Clinic, I learned to be patient and empathetic.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? I have gained the ability to quickly see the big picture but also the small parts of any legal problem. As a lawyer, I think you need to figure out what are the big goals of the parties but also cannot miss out on the small underlying issues. You have to address everything but figuring out early in the process the high-level stuff helps you with the low-level stuff later on.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I think I want to do employment law. I find the fact patterns interesting because anything and everything happens in the employment setting. Also, it involves real people in a real setting. While one party is likely a corporation, the suit is caused because someone in the corporation did something that another person did not like. It is completely people focused.

What's next? I will be clerking for Judge Daniel Coble in South Carolina’s 5th Judicial Circuit in Richland County, South Carolina.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In five years, I hope to be an associate at an employment law firm. My goal is to be at one law firm. I want a place where I am happy and pushes me to be the best attorney I can be. The best situation for me would to be at that place for the rest of my career.

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. candidate? Through the highs and lows of law school, I am so happy that I picked to come here. The community here is so supportive of each other, and I never felt that it was overly competitive. The upper classmen were always willing to help in any way they could. The faculty care about their students, and it shows during class and during office hours.

Hometown: Bend, Oregon

Undergrad institution: Tulane University, bachelor’s in international relations and national security studies

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? Getting to work in the Veterans Legal Clinic during my last semester has been incredibly impactful. I’ve gotten to build relationships with my clients, sharpen my legal skills and learn to manage my own client matters. It’s meant the world to give back to a community that has given so much for our country.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? These past three years have taught me that my value extends far past grades, awards or recognitions. Through experiences like Mock Trial and clinics, I’ve grown comfortable in a courtroom — advocating clearly and confidently in front of others. I feel empowered to manage a client matter from start to finish and see the real impact of legal advocacy. 

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? The most important thing I’ve learned from this experience is how important my community is to my success. My friends, mentors, co-workers, professors — they are what has made this experience so meaningful and why I am graduating.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I’ve had the honor to serve as the President of the Federalist Society, a Student Ambassador, an Associate Justice of the Mock Trial Bar, and recently worked in the Veterans Legal Clinic. All these experiences have taught me more about being an effective leader and have also re-affirmed how rewarding it is to be involved in my community and give back to it in any way I can.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? Law school, and especially the activities I participate in, have sharpened my leadership skills. I feel more confident delegating work and trusting the people around me. 

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I am going into civil defense litigation. It was the people on my team who really drove my decision to take that route. Someone told me to hitch my wagon to the people and not necessarily the practice; that couldn’t be truer for me.

What's next? I will be joining Nelson Mullins in the Columbia office after the Bar exam. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? I was very intentional that when I came to USC, I wanted to stay in Columbia. My husband and I are really looking forward to planting roots and raising a family in the coming years. I look forward to building an even stronger community in the next decade both professionally and personally. Ideally, I hope I can be in a position to pour into the next generation of lawyers the same way my mentors have poured into me. 

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. candidate? I could not imagine what life would look like if I had not said yes to USC. It has brought me so many blessings, sometimes it feels too good to be true. Choosing USC was the best decision. 

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

Undergrad institution: University of South Carolina, bachelor’s in political science and government

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? Through the Pro Bono Board, I supported the Native American Law Student Association and the Latinx Law Student Association by organizing a handful of special events, ranging from a voter registration drive in the Catawba Nation to manual labor and low-income tax clinics. My personal favorite event was a chili cook-off benefiting a foster home for undocumented children, where the children came to the school as celebrity judges!

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? The past three years have taught me the importance of continuous service to my community as both a lawyer and a person. I entered law school with the goal of making a positive impact on my immediate community. I hope to never lose sight of that goal.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I have learned that law school is intimidating, but anyone can do it! The law is, for the most part, straightforward and clear. Success in law school follows from regular, little steps toward a goal, not raw talent or intelligence. Diligence, patience and a little kindness can get you anywhere!

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I LOVED being involved in student organizations. I have participated in the Latinx Law Student Association, Native American Law Student Association, Pro Bono Board and Mock Trial. LLSA and NALSA taught me the importance of community and, most importantly, of supporting that community’s needs outside the walls of the law school. Pro Bono taught me that legal assistance can look very different across scenarios but is equally important and life changing. Mock Trial has taught me to have confidence in the courtroom and sharpened my advocacy skills.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? Time management. Time management. Time management. It’s still a work in progress, but my Google calendar has never been so well organized!

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I’m drawn to public interest and government work! I’ve landed on public interest because, at the end of the day, there’s no better feeling than going home knowing you’ve helped someone navigate an intimidating and sometimes confusing system and helped underserved individuals.

What's next? I plan on working at the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office after taking the Bar Exam!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In the future, I see myself spending time serving low-income and underrepresented communities of South Carolina, doing what I love.

Hometown: Gainesville, Georgia

Undergrad institution: Davidson College, ’18, bachelor’s in religious studies

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? I participated in a lot of great programs while here, but my favorite is the Pro Bono Program. My involvement with the Pro Bono Program has been a really rewarding experience because the program has so many different opportunities and ways to get involved. I have helped answer questions at SC Bar Free Legal Answers events, assisted with Ask-an-Attorney Day, planned a Name-Change clinic, volunteer mediated family law disputes, attended Palmetto Leader clinics, conducted research with South Carolinians Against the Death Penalty, and assisted with Homeless Court, just to name a few. I have loved seeing the law in practice at all of these events, and it often helps me conceptualize what are otherwise abstract legal concepts. I also learned practical skills, like how to explain complicated legal concepts to a client, and I am not as nervous about going into the practice of law as I think I otherwise would be, absent my participation in these programs.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? I have definitely learned to think like a lawyer. Everyone says that about law school, but it is true. Law school taught me how to sort through a narrative to find what’s most important for a specific legal claim and then how to use those facts to persuasively present those facts to a judge or jury. It’s a very different type of thinking and writing than what I was used to as a teacher, as legal thinking/writing is focused on conciseness and clarity, rather than narrative structure or creativity. I am still working on writing and speaking concisely, but I have definitely improved in my ability to distill a story down to its key parts for a legal claim.

As a person, law school reaffirmed the importance of family. I could not have done this without support from my husband, and it is not an exaggeration to say my husband put me through school. He had a second job to pay for my tuition, on top of his already demanding job as a college coach. I had to learn how to balance my academic studies and extracurriculars with family time, and it was much harder to find time to spend together during law school than it was before law school. We both had to be intentional with our time, and we often had to schedule time for each other, which may sound odd, but it was very helpful to have dedicated time for us each week. It’s a practice we plan to continue in the future as we each begin new jobs.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I learned that I need a lot of structure to do well. I did better academically and professionally when I had a lot going on because it forced me to be very efficient with my time.

I also learned the power of a color-coded planner. I did not routinely use a planner before law school, but I now have a detailed planner with a color-coded system for each of my classes and other responsibilities. Anyone who knows me is familiar with my planner, and it’s honestly the secret to my success.  

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? So many. I was President of the Pro Bono Board, President of the Student Animal Legal Defense Fund, Treasurer of If/When/How, and a Research Editor for the South Carolina Law Review. I was also a member of the Public Interest Law Society, the Environmental Law Society, and South Carolina Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys. On top of those extracurriculars, I participated in the Domestic Violence Clinic and worked part-time at Richardson Thomas, a local plaintiff’s firm.

I learned different things from each organization, but overall, I learned how important it is to get involved. I met a lot of amazing people through these organizations, and it helped me find people who have similar interests to me. Some also offer great opportunities to do something fun outside of class. For example, SALDF hosts a doggy day out every year where law students volunteer to take shelter dogs out for the day. I participated each year, and it was always fun to hang out with classmates while walking dogs for an afternoon. Even the educational events through these organizations can be fun. I once had to find an original 1960s Spiderman comic for Law Review, and I soon learned that the famous quote — “with great power comes great responsibility” — is actually a misquote of the original. My involvement in student organizations is a large part of what made my law school experience memorable, and it’s memories like these that I’ll carry with me after graduation.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? I was a teacher before law school, so I already had some skills in talking on my feet and conveying information to a group of people, but law school enhanced these skills. It’s a very different experience to explain conspiracy to a hypothetical jury versus explaining synonyms to a second-grade class. But, in both teaching and the law, you need to be able to explain ideas to another group, and law school helped me transfer my skills in public speaking to a different audience. Building on this, law school (and specifically the Pro Bono Program) taught me the importance of using plain language and minimizing the use of legalese when explaining ideas to non-lawyers. This ability to effectively communicate often complex legal concepts to clients is a skill I am still working on, but it is one of the best skills I gained during law school.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? Why did you choose that path? I’m not sure where my career will lead. I have not decided on a specialty yet because I have liked everything I have done so far, but I have not fallen in love with anything yet. Whatever I do, I know I want my future career to support pro bono and public interest work in some way, and I would love to get involved in addressing access to justice issues.

What's next? I am moving to the Asheville area to clerk for Judge Martin Reidinger in the Western District of North Carolina. I am excited for my clerkship because it will be a great opportunity for me to learn more about different areas of the law, especially since I have an interest in litigation. Judge Reidinger is also well known for his extensive knowledge of the rules of evidence, and I am excited to learn from him.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? I don’t usually plan that far in advance. If you had asked me five years ago, I don’t think I would have seen myself in law school. Ten years ago, I definitely didn’t anticipate ever going to law school. Life can take unexpected turns, and you never know where life may take you. I try not to plan too far ahead because I don’t want to shut doors or close opportunities that I don’t know exist yet.

Hometown: Columbia, South Carolina

Undergrad/graduate institution: College of William and Mary, bachelor’s in finance; University of South Carolina, Master of Sport and Entertainment Management

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? One of the most impactful opportunities was the Maymester Study Abroad program in the U.K. The Maymester was an amazing opportunity to examine and compare international legal systems with some of my best friends! We traveled and shared unique experiences, including High Table dinner at Gray’s Inn, Evensong at Middle Temple and Shakespeare’s Cup at Middle Temple. We got to see where legal history of the United Kingdom was made. 

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? The last three years have transformed my way of thinking. It taught me to seek solutions, not just answers. Law school taught me to be flexible and thoughtful. As related to a more specific skill, learning to keep my time has been a reminder that time is valuable and fleeting. Having to record time for clinics and Law Review makes me focus on efficiency in the task at hand, as opposed to inefficient multitasking. The ways I have grown as a lawyer and legal professional have made me a better wife, better friend and better person.  

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I learned that I can do hard things and to laugh at myself. Before law school, I probably would’ve been too embarrassed to admit some of my mistaken beliefs about law school, but I have learned that laughing about my earlier self is part of what helps me celebrate your growth. And being surrounded by trusted friends and loved ones makes those moments of humility feel safe and non-judgmental. 

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? The most impactful organization in my law school experience has been the South Carolina Law Review, which has introduced me to wonderful classmates and alumni and offered opportunities to grow academically and in leadership opportunities. I have opened the Bluebook and debated the nuances of a minor rule with the same people that I have laughed so hard that I cried in the Law Review suite more times than I can count. 

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? To be still and wrestle with the confusion. I showed up looking for a singular answer to each problem. I am leaving a more holistic, dynamic problem solver. I am leaving this law school equipped with a confidence that no problem is insurmountable with hard work and dedication. 

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I plan to pursue a career in civil litigation, specifically I am interested in business and  products liability, and appellate litigation. While I found my own path in law school, my interest in these fields is also following in my parents' footsteps. 

What's next? After graduation (and the July Bar Exam), I will clerk for Judge Anderson on the District Court and then Judge Quattlebaum on the Fourth Circuit. Following my clerkships, I plan to pursue a career in civil litigation. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? I don’t know what life will look like in 5, 10 or 20 years, but I hope I am happy. My goal is to build a family full of love, to have a career that challenges me, and to lead a life that gives back to the community, but what that looks like, time will tell. 

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. candidate? Enjoy the little moments. The big moments are easy to celebrate and easy to find, but one day you’ll blink, and it’s time to graduate and for the next phase of your career. 

Hometown: Belmont, North Carolina

Undergrad institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, bachelor’s in philosophy and history

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? One of the best and first opportunities I had at the law school was through the Pro Bono Program. They had a Good Deed Friday event, which is a reoccurring event, and for this one, we were cleaning trash outside and around a house. What I did not know until I got there was the reason. The person we were helping was elderly and unfortunately had a house fire. The city was coming around and fining them for all the trash. We were able to help them by cleaning up the property. This experience reminded me just how much the law is a practice that impacts every one of us.  

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? Once you go to law school, your brain will never work the same again. I’ve learned never to assume I know what a word means and to always ask questions. I’ve also never worked harder in my life. I think law school is ultimately an exercise in discipline, and conquering it makes me feel I can do pretty much anything! 

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I’ve learned I’m not as smart as I thought I was, but also that hard work is the key to my success. So many of my peers are so much smarter than I am, but at the end of the day, I was able to be successful by working hard and being myself.  

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I have loved competing in Mock Trial for the law school. I have learned so much beyond the simple procedures and rules in a courtroom. I’ve learned how to think about a case from the ground up, how to build a theory and how to present to a jury. Most of all, it’s given me the confidence and ability not to be afraid when I step into a courtroom, which I have had the opportunity to do as part of my clinic!

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? Reading comprehension, forming arguments, and most importantly, listening!

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I am planning to pursue a career in civil litigation. I chose this route because I always knew I wanted to be in a courtroom. While criminal law certainly has more trials, I found that it was very difficult to deal with the substance of it day in and day out. Ultimately, I found my home on the civil side of things.  

What's next? I will be working at McAngus Goudelock and Courie post-graduation after I pass the Bar in July. MGC is really like a family. I was blown away by the culture there and how everyone treats each other. I am so excited to join not only a firm with outstanding lawyers, but also good people too.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? I see myself being very happy at MGC for a long time. At some point, I would love to become a judge and maybe even a professor!

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. candidate? The best thing about being a student here at South Carolina Rice Law is the people who come here. I have met so many kind, wonderful people who are going to be amazing lawyers. It is so fun to talk to people and figure out what they are going to do. I cannot wait to see all the amazing things my class is going to do after graduation!

Hometown: Warwick, New York

Undergrad institution: The Pennsylvania State University at University Park, bachelor’s in political science

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? During my time at the law school, I was a member of the Moot Court Bar and later had the honor of serving as Chief Justice. Through Moot Court, I had the opportunity to argue before judges at the South Carolina Court of Appeals. I also traveled to Boston to compete in an external moot court competition, which was an incredible experience as a student advocate.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? The past three years have pushed me to grow both intellectually and personally. Law school challenged me to become a stronger advocate and more thoughtful problem-solver, while also teaching me resilience and the importance of supporting the people around you.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? Law school taught me that the things that seem the most difficult at the beginning often become the most rewarding in the end. Many of the opportunities I was initially nervous about turned out to be some of the most meaningful experiences of my time here.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? During law school, I was a member of the Moot Court Bar and had the privilege of serving as Chief Justice during my 3L year. I was also a peer mentor for the Student Bar Association during my 2L year.  Additionally, I was a research assistant to the Family and Small Business Program. Through these experiences, I learned the value of mentorship, leadership and supporting other students as they navigate law school.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? One of the most valuable skills I gained in law school is discipline. Motivation can be temporary, but discipline is what carries you through the long hours and difficult moments. Learning how to stay consistent and committed, even when things are challenging, is a lesson that will stay with me throughout my career.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? After law school, I will be joining K&L Gates LLP in Charlotte in the firm’s corporate mergers and acquisitions practice group. I was drawn to this area because transactional lawyers play a central role in helping companies navigate complex deals and major business decisions. The fast-paced and collaborative nature of the work makes it an exciting area of practice to begin my career.

What's next? After law school, I will be joining K&L Gates LLP in Charlotte in the firm’s corporate mergers and acquisitions practice group.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In five years, I hope to be continuing to develop as a corporate attorney and building strong relationships with clients and colleagues. In 10 years and beyond, I hope to take on greater responsibility within my firm while also mentoring younger attorneys as they begin their careers.

Hometown: Blacksburg, Virginia

Undergrad/graduate institution: Virginia Tech, bachelor’s in psychology

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? Two really exciting opportunities come to mind. Firstly, I’ve had the opportunity to become a Guardian ad Litem through the Children’s Advocacy Law Society. This certification allows me to represent the child’s best interest in abuse and neglect situations that are heard in family court. Secondly, I was able to attend a conference in Cleveland this past summer with my co-exec board members to the annual National Association of Counsel for Children Conference to network with other child advocates across the country. I also met with Shannon Felder (a USC Law alumna and the current training director for NACC), participated in trainings on topics including forensic interviewing, best practices for working with children in DSS, and recognizing the intersectional impacts that the judicial and child welfare systems have on every child.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? I think I underestimated just how much law school changes the way you think. While law students tend to have a natural tendency towards logical thinking and analytical problem-solving, law school has continued to strengthen that skill to a point of no return. After spending three years learning how to understand and argue not only for the side that I agree with but also for the opposing view, I feel more confident in my ability as a person and as a lawyer to view every client, every case and every trial from not just the angle most convenient and comfortable to me but also from every other angle that could exist. 

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I think the most important thing I’ve learned about myself during my time in law school is how resilient I am. Law school is challenging, and it has the capacity to really shake you if you let it. But leaning into the process, embracing the confusion and anxiety, and learning how to push past the point of discomfort to learn new things has by far been the most important lesson I’ve learned in the last three years.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in a variety of activities, student organizations and academic programs, but by far two of the most impactful opportunities were joining the USC Law Softball Team and participating as a student attorney in the Veteran’s Legal Clinic. The USC Law Softball Team was revived during my 2L year, and I had the opportunity to serve on the exec board this year. We competed against countless teams at UVA, participated in fall and intramural leagues, and have created an environment where first-, second-, and third-year law students can engage in a healthy competitive outlet while forming connections that will carry beyond our time in law school. Additionally, being a student attorney with the Veteran’s Legal Clinic has been one of the most valuable academic activities I’ve participated in during law school. There are so many practical skills, including how to file documents and work with clients outside of a mock setting, that I’ve learned and developed, which will set me up for success as I leave law school. 

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? The main skills I’ve enhanced during law school are (1) the ability to read massive amounts of information on a weekly basis and synthesize it into short, yet understandable, case briefs; (2) how to speak confidently during cold calls, presentations and simulations; and (3) learning to say “I don’t know” and recognizing that learning new things is a lifelong process.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I initially plan to pursue military law for the opportunities that being a JAG offers — the chance to practice a wide variety of law without having to move from firm to firm; the ability to travel internationally; and to carry on my family’s legacy of serving in the U.S. Army. However, I also plan to practice criminal law upon leaving the military. I worked as a legal advocate for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse during my time in undergrad and have always felt a particular pull towards working in the criminal prosecution of violent crimes. It’s important to me that I advocate for those survivors in the role I have as an attorney.

What's next? I have accepted a commission to serve as an officer in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps upon graduation and successful passing of the Bar. I look forward to serving my country and having the opportunity to engage in a wide variety of experiences over the next few years. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In 5 years, I still see myself serving as a JAG officer, hopefully stationed overseas in Germany or Italy. In 10 years, I will likely be wrapping up my career in the military and will be beginning my time as a civilian attorney back in South Carolina working in criminal prosecution of violent crimes and crimes against children. Many many years after law school and being an attorney, I hope to retire and own an animal sanctuary in Virginia near my family. 

Hometown: Charleston, South Carolina

Undergrad institution: University of South Carolina, bachelor's in economics

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? During my time at USC Rice Law, I had the opportunity to extern with a judge on the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals with the Honorable Judge DeAndrea G. Benjamin, where I wrote a bench memorandum and traveled to Richmond, Virginia, gaining firsthand insight into the appellate process. I also participated in the Federal Civil Practice Clinic, which allowed me to practice in federal court as a student and develop real-world litigation skills. These experiences gave me invaluable practical exposure and strengthened my confidence as an advocate.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? Over the past three years, I’ve developed into a more confident and capable advocate, with a stronger ability to think critically and communicate with purpose. Law school has challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone and rise to higher expectations. As a person, it has instilled resilience, discipline, and a belief in my ability to succeed in spaces I once found intimidating.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? Law school placed me in a space that was completely unfamiliar to me, and at times, that felt overwhelming. As the first in my family to take this path, I’ve learned how to navigate uncertainty, trust myself and grow into spaces I once questioned whether I belonged in. More than anything, I’ve come to see myself as a trailblazer for my family and community, and that has given my journey a deeper sense of purpose.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? I was involved in Moot Court, where I served as associate justice and competed in both internal and external competitions, along with organizations like South Carolina Journal of International Law and Business, the LatinX Law Student Association, and roles as a student ambassador and as a peer mentor. Through these experiences, I developed confidence in my advocacy, strengthened my leadership skills, and learned how important mentorship and community are in this profession. They pushed me to grow both professionally and personally and helped shape the kind of lawyer I want to be.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? During my time here, I’ve significantly strengthened my legal writing, critical thinking and resilience. Law school taught me how to analyze complex issues with precision and communicate clearly and effectively. It also pushed me to develop the perseverance needed to navigate challenges and continue growing.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I plan to begin my career in civil litigation, where I’m drawn to the challenges and opportunities the field offers. That said, I’m keeping an open mind and am excited to see where this profession leads me. I’m eager to learn, grow and embrace whatever opportunities come my way.

What's next? I have formally secured a position after graduation. I will be working in civil litigation at Nelson Mullins in Columbia, South Carolina. I am looking forward to joining a great firm here in South Carolina.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In the years ahead, I see myself continuing to grow both professionally and personally while becoming more deeply involved in my community. I hope to use my career not just to succeed but to also create opportunities and serve as an example for others who come from backgrounds like mine. Ultimately, I want to continue being a trailblazer and open doors for those who follow.

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice Law J.D. candidate? My time at USC Rice Law has been truly transformative, both personally and professionally. As someone who entered law school from a non-traditional background, I leave with a strong sense of purpose and confidence in my ability to succeed in this profession. I’m grateful for the community that supported me along the way and proud to carry forward the role of being a trailblazer for those who come after me.

Hometown: Greenville, South Carolina

Undergrad institution: Hampden-Sydney College, bachelor’s in government and philosophy

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. Candidate? I had the opportunity to participate in the JOE program after both my 1L and 2L years. My first placement was in Family Court, and my second was in Federal District Court with Judge Donald Coggins Jr. These experiences were eye-opening and gave me valuable insight into how courts operate behind the scenes and how judges approach legal decision making — an opportunity many of my peers at other law schools said they did not have.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? The past three years have shaped me as a lawyer by reinforcing the importance of truly caring for your client. While a case may be one of many for an attorney, it is often one of the most important moments in a client’s life, and they rely on you to guide them through it. As a person, this school has emphasized the importance of service and the responsibility to give back to your community whenever you can.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? During law school, I learned that persistence is one of my strongest traits. When things did not go as planned, I found that I was willing to keep preparing, adjusting and pushing forward rather than giving up. That experience showed me that consistent effort and resilience are qualities I can rely on when facing difficult challenges.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? During law school, I was involved with the Lincoln–Douglas Society, the Student Bar Association, Veterans in Law and the Pro Bono Board. These experiences allowed me to engage in meaningful discussions about important legal issues, serve the student body and give back to the community. They reinforced the importance of leadership, collaboration and service within the legal profession.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? I’ve become much better at organizing and prioritizing my workload. I also learned how to delegate effectively, communicate expectations clearly and trust others to carry out responsibilities. Overall, I think that I’ve developed a more structured and efficient approach to getting things done.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? I plan to pursue litigation because I want to be in the courtroom advocating for my client. There is something compelling about the traditional role of a lawyer presenting arguments, examining witnesses and speaking to a jury. That setting is where I believe I can make the most impact.

What's next? I have accepted a position with Tonnsen Bach in Greenville, South Carolina, as a Business Litigation Associate. I am excited to work with a great team and to once again call Greenville my home!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In five years, I see myself established as a litigation attorney and continuing to build strong courtroom experience. In 10 years, I hope to take on greater responsibility and leadership within the practice of law. Beyond that, I hope to mentor the next generation of lawyers and eventually have the opportunity to teach.

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. Candidate? My time here reinforced the importance of service, professionalism and community within the legal profession. I’m grateful for the mentors and classmates who helped shape my experience and look forward to carrying those lessons forward in my career.

Hometown: Spartanburg, South Carolina 

Undergrad institution: Claflin University, bachelor’s in business administration and management 

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? I obtained a clerkship during my 1L summer in Milan, Italy, and served as the Editor-in-Chief of the South Carolina Journal of International Law and Business. 

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? Over the past three years, law school has shaped me into a more disciplined, strategic and confident advocate. Personally, even when faced with adversity, this experience has taught me resilience, balance and the importance of staying grounded while navigating demanding environments.

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? During law school, I have learned that I thrive in challenging, fast-paced environments and am capable of balancing high expectations with leadership responsibilities. I also learned the importance of trusting myself and remaining adaptable when navigating uncertainty.

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in and what did you learn from them? During my time in law school, I served as the Editor-in-Chief of the South Carolina Journal of International Law and Business, Vice President of the Sports and Entertainment Law Society, and Corporate Relations Chair of the Black Law Students Association. Additionally, I had the privilege of leading the final student presentation as a student member of the John Belton O’Neall Inn of Court. Through these roles and opportunities, I developed strong leadership and organizational skills, particularly in managing large teams, coordinating complex projects and ensuring high-quality work under tight deadlines. I also strengthened my ability to build professional relationships through mentorship programming and external engagement. Most importantly, these experiences taught me how to lead with intention, balancing collaboration, accountability and adaptability in both academic and professional settings.

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? During my time at USC Rice School of Law, I have gained many valuable skills, but most notably, I have strengthened my determination, refined my time-management abilities and cultivated a more innovative mindset.

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? In the long term, I plan to pursue international transactional law. I have always been passionate about business on a global scale, and my experiences at USC has only deepened and reaffirmed that passion.

What's next? I will be working as a workers' compensation associate at MGC in Atlanta, Georgia.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In five years, I see myself as a practicing transactional attorney continuing to build a strong foundation in complex deals and cross-border work. In 10 years, I hope to be deeply engaged in international transactions and taking on greater responsibility and leadership in my practice. Beyond that, I envision a career that allows me to operate on a global scale, leading high-impact deals while also mentoring and creating opportunities for others. However, I am open and excited about wherever the legal profession takes me. 

Hometown: Wilmington, North Carolina

Undergrad institution: University of South Carolina Columbia, bachelor’s in journalism

What unique and impactful opportunities were you able to participate in while a J.D. candidate? One of the most unique and impactful opportunities I participated in during my J.D. candidacy was my participation in the Great Britain Maymester during the summer in between my 2L and 3L years of law school. While on the Maymester, I was privileged to travel around the United Kingdom with some of my best friends from law school while learning about comparative constitutional law and legal systems from distinguished Oxford University faculty. The Maymester was the experience of a lifetime and was my favorite part of my law school experience.

How have the past three years shaped you as a lawyer? As a person? The past three years have shaped me, both personally and professionally, as a confident problem solver, dedicated friend and passionate leader. As I'm nearing the end of law school, I am now more confident in my abilities and can recognize my strengths and weaknesses. Overall, I have gotten to know myself better throughout law school, and I am proud of the person I've become. 

What have you learned about yourself during your law school tenure? I have learned that I have the ability to accomplish any hard task or goal I set my mind to. Law school gave me the tools to reach my goals, and I look forward to using these skills in practice. Additionally, I learned that I do my best work under a bit of healthy pressure, and I function at my best when I have a schedule packed with meaningful and enjoyable commitments. 

What activities/student organizations/clinics did you participate in, and what did you learn from them? During law school I have been honored to be part of many student organizations including Women in Law, the Pro Bono Board, the ABA Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Journal, Christian Legal Society, the Student Bar Association, the Business Law Association, the First Generation Law Student Association, and Phi Delta Phi. Of these involvements, I serve in leadership as president of Women in Law, social media and communications chair for the Pro Bono Board, special projects editor for the ABA Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Journal, and 3L representative for the Student Bar Association. Additionally, I serve as a student ambassador for the USC Rice Law admissions team, which is a position I enjoy immensely.  Overall, these commitments have taught me the importance of meaningful community service, and because of that I will be dedicated to public servitude during my legal career. 

What are the main skills you've enhanced/gained during your time here? The biggest skill I've enhanced during my time at USC Rice Law is my ability to be an effective leader among my peers. I have been blessed with multiple high-impact student organization leadership opportunities while in law school, most notably within Women in Law and on the law school's Pro Bono Board. Being a strong leader means being compassionate, dedicated and servant-hearted, and I am thankful to have learned that in law school. 

What type of law are you planning to pursue in your career? After graduation, I will be pursuing a career in civil litigation. I chose this path because I immensely enjoyed my experience in adjunct faculty Richard Willis and Clifton Newman's Trial Advocacy class, and I look forward to trying cases in my career. Besides Trial Advocacy, some of my favorite law school classes were Contract Law and Business Associations. Taking advantage of the diverse class opportunities available to USC Rice Law students helped me come to the realization that my skills are best suited to a civil litigation practice, as opposed to criminal law or some transactional field. 

What's next? After graduation, I will be working for the law firm of Murphy and Grantland in their Columbia office. I will be taking the July 2026 South Carolina Bar Exam. Before I take the bar exam, I plan to spend the summer studying; but after I take the bar exam, I plan to spend time traveling with my family and friends from law school before starting my job. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10? Beyond 10? In the future, I see myself working in a career I enjoy, surrounded by the people I love, and proud of the progress I've made towards reaching my goals. I hope to have tried successful cases, built meaningful professional connections and made a name for myself as a lawyer. In addition to the law, I have always been passionate about travel, and I hope to have the financial stability to see and experience new cultures in different parts of the world. I am not sure where my legal career will take me, but wherever I end up, I hope I am happy with my career choice and feel fulfilled in my work. 

Anything else you want to add about your time as a USC Rice SOL J.D. candidate? I have had a wonderful time as a J.D. Candidate at USC Rice Law, and it is bittersweet that my time in law school is coming to an end. USC Rice Law has the kindest and most dedicated network of faculty, staff and alumni, and I am proud to be joining the impressive group of USC Rice Law alumni!