Hey All,

I hope your semester is winding down.  Oklahoma, it’s something else. So we made the stupid decision to move before the semester is over.  If you have ever contemplated this decision, just go ahead and don’t follow through with it.  Last night, we picked up the U-Haul at 5:00 and by 6:00 we had hail and tornado warnings.  An hour later the sun was shining and it was about 70 degrees.  The weather is always…interesting.  Picking out an outfit that will be suitable for the entire day is always a challenge, but it brings a great deal of personal satisfaction whenever you’re successful.

It seems so strange that 2L year is over.  Last week and this week are all of the end-of-the-year social events for student organizations.  One really cool activity that TU student organizations participate in is self-hosted end-of-the-year social banquets.  Last Sunday was the SBA banquet and last night we got to celebrate the Ambassador Gala.  Both were an absolute blast!  I have to be honest though; the Ambassador Gala was may more fun.  The dinner was hosted at the Philbrook Museum, which is a beautiful exhibit in Midtown Tulsa.  They served us filet mignon, chicken marsalla, and, most importantly, unlimited wine (up to the point of driving home safely, ofcourse).  It was a very beautiful evening.  Our admissions staff really take good care all the students, particularly the ambassadors.  All the 3L ambassadors got cords for graduation while the 2L’s got nametags.  Some of the 2L’s who consistently write blogs (which includes me) also got special pens for blogging!  I was/am so stoked!

This has been one heck of a year.  Trial team, law review, three jobs, SBA, and all the drama in between has made for an exciting time.  I’m really excited about this summer.  One thing I found out in law school is that many students get to participate in summer associate programs the summer following their 2L year.  A summer associate program is just as it sounds.  As an intern, you are treated (to the extent allowed by the Rules of Professional Conduct) to be an associate attorney.  You work on substantive research, motion drafting, client correspondence, and if you have your Legal Intern License, even some preliminary hearings.  In short, it’s what everyone waits for: the chance to be treated like a lawyer.  I’m really excited because we have a four-month summer due to building renovations.  In addition to having 18 weekends by the pool without the stress of being a student, we have a real opportunity to see what it’s like to be a lawyer.  Some people are splitting their summer experiences (9 weeks at one place and 9 weeks at another).  I’m staying with the same firm all summer.  It’s going to be great!  I work at a high-volume, plaintiff’s only, personal injury firm.  It is crazy busy and a ton of fun.  Most importantly, I found out yesterday that I’m getting business cards!!!  I can’t wait!

Another year over and another year done.  As you prepare for school, try to live in the moment.  It really does go by way too fast.  Everyone I talked to in law school told me how terrible their experience was.  I feel sorry for them.  I’ve had a wonderful experience and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.  I hope you enjoy yours too!

Have a great summer!  For those of you coming in the fall, just relax and know that you will be amazing!  For those still working and in undergrad, remember to keep your eye on the prize.  One day, you will be writing the blogs telling others what they are missing!

Ryan