February 27, 2013 at 11:00 am

The value of a legal education does not reside solely in legal training. The numerous skills I have acquired throughout my time spent at TU are invaluable. While my “chills” are multiplying in anticipation of taking the bar exam I find comfort in knowing TU has provided me with the skills I need to be successful. Additionally, I imagine my law school graduation resembling the end of Grease. I will fly away in a magical car with Olivia Newton-John, and my friends and family will wave at us with no fear for our safety…….How absurd is the end of that movie!? Also, what high school has a team of professional teenage auto mechanics?? I digress.

On the eve of the TU Family Law Negotiation I thought highlighting the various skills offered in law school would be proper. My 2L year I was a member of TU’s ABA Negotiation Team. Prior to the experience I did not know one could receive training for negotiating. My coaches did a wonderful job in preparing us for competition, and taught me many lessons on the finer points of negotiation. The skills I developed during my time on the team will be with me throughout the rest of my life, and will benefit me in everyday life.

The greatest skills acquired during the legal education process are analytical reasoning and writing. The development of these two skills allow law graduates to succeed in any career field they chose. My writing style and analytical process have drastically strengthened over the past three years. These skills have practical application in all career fields, and assist in arguments with family members. If you are committed to completing your legal education the opportunities available post graduation are by no means limited to the legal field. I would venture to say a modest percentage of my graduating class are currently pursuing jobs outside the legal field, and started law school with the same intentions.

The law school journey is a worthwhile decision. It is an investment for your future, and an investment in yourself. In light of my law school training coming to an end,  I will leave you with the actual dialogue from Grease:

Sandy: Todd…is this the end?

Todd: Of course not; it’s only the beginning.