Wise Words From Alumni to the Class of 2022

“As the years go on, you will find that you will be surprised at how much your law school education has prepared you not only for the practice of law but for other areas of life. . . . The training in how to think, how to solve problems, and how to work collaboratively is as important a part of your educational experience as the specific knowledge that you have gained about the law.”

“Find work you enjoy, and don’t settle for what’s easy/convenient.”

“It may not feel that way, but this is the best time in history to start a career. Be confident; the tremendous changes we are seeing present the greatest opportunities for those who are just entering the profession—because they are starting fresh.”

“Be open to opportunities to use your legal training in law in ways you may not have even imagined.”

“Be professional and kind in all that you do. The people you interact with may not remember the details of your interaction with them, but they will always remember how you made them feel.”

“Find work that is enjoyable, meaningful, and fulfilling for you. Always strive to maintain a healthy balance between your professional and personal lives. . . . Continually reflect on your life, and appreciate all the good things you have. It will make you happier and give you a balanced perspective on where things stand. Remember that life is ever-changing.”

“Observe where there is momentum in the legal services industry, and [do not] place undue weight on tier-one shiny names in private practice. Stay curious!”

“Follow your heart. Don’t hyperventilate over your first job out of law school. There will be lots of great opportunities in your future.”

“Build on the love and support of family and friends as you pursue your dreams. It is important for you to recognize that despite the world’s turmoil, your futures are bright. In each of you is considerable potential, seen and nurtured by those around you. I urge you to firmly embrace that support and propel yourself forward on life’s path with enthusiasm, confidence, and unshakeable self-esteem. The world is a better place because you are here. . . . Never lose sight of your humanity and the humanity of those around you.”

“Be willing to change the practice areas in which you work based on the degree to which you feel satisfied and find your work truly rewarding.”

“The education you received in law school has given you the gift of critical analysis based on facts, not beliefs. It will serve you well, regardless of the career you choose.”

“Learn practical, international, and commercial skills. Read financial statements for sport. And spend a lot of time getting to the top of your game in all things tech.”

“Your career happiness will have much more to do with the people you work with than the prestige of the organization on your business card.”

“Pursue a practice that you are passionate about, and don’t ever forget that we all have an obligation to the profession and the public to promote the rule of law for social good.”

“Keep close contact with your friends from law school. They will be a major asset throughout your life. By and large, my closest friends in life are from or related to my Columbia Law School experience.”

“Follow a career that facilitates your helping others.”

“Do not let the demands of the rest of your life take priority from keeping in touch with your closest high school, college, and law school friends.”

“Learn as much as you can about the human aspects of law practice—e.g., how to relate to and treat people of all stripes.”