Events
About our Mentor Programs
At the St. Mary’s University School of Law, you are part of a community of like-minded students, professors and alumni who are committed to serving not just the community, but each other. We know the law school transition can be hard. But starting your first year, you can find a mentor who will help you navigate on your journey.
Mentor Circles
“Mentor Circles allow for networking with members of the bench and bar, as well as fellow law students, further expanding a student’s resources and support. Mentor Circles are now part of our tradition.”
-Dean Patricia E. Roberts, J.D.
Small group settings. Real world ethical dilemmas.
As a second- or third-year J.D. student, you have the option of participating in the Mentor Circles Program, where you’ll have opportunities to ask experienced practicing attorneys the questions you’ve always wanted answers to.
The Mentor Circles Program pairs up to eight second- and third-year J.D. students with two or more volunteer lawyers.
Mentor Circles are a unique way for law students to interact with experienced attorneys who are willing to discuss the challenges of practicing law and to offer career advice.
Topics include, but are not limited to:
- Things I Wish I Had Known Early in My Law Career
- Practice Areas, Work Cultures, and Career Options
- An Anything Goes Forum
Alumni who wish to get involved with the Mentor Circles Program may contact Robin Thorner, Assistant Dean for Career Strategy.
“I wish this was around when I was in law school, because it definitely would have been something I’d have signed up for. It provides space for a student to talk to their mentors, but also to learn from their peers and get guidance on their law school career and just generally.”
-Alicia Grant (J.D. ’16), associate at Norton Rose Fulbright and mentor
The St. Mary’s 1L Edification Program
The St. Mary’s 1L Edification Program (SM1LE) pairs first-year J.D. students with second- and third-year J.D. student mentors who will guide them as they begin their law school careers. SM1LE Mentors are given a weekly topic to discuss with their first-year J.D. students and make themselves available to discuss any questions students may have. Topics include everything from academics to personal wellness.
To learn more about this program, contact Alan Haynes, Assistant Dean for Law Student Affairs.
