Megan Thomas came to the College of Law knowing she wants to work toward ensuring equal opportunities for all students. To that end, she was able to complete an internship in education law this summer. Her skills will be further honed by earning as master of public affairs degree from the Maxwell School.
Why did you choose the Syracuse University College of Law?
Megan Thomas
I chose Syracuse because I got into both the M.P.A. program and the J.D. program. It was really important to me that I could do both in three years. When I visited Syracuse, the alumni network also instantly impressed me. The alumni stay really connected and are supportive of current students. Another big factor was that my husband got into the Maxwell School.
How has law school been so far?
I absolutely love law school. I feel challenged in my classes, motivated by my professors and supported by the staff. After just one year, I feel like I have learned so much about the law. I also really like the other students. I have met many inspirational and interesting people at law school.
What kind of internship did you get this summer?
I am working at Legal Assistance of Western New York in Geneva, where I help advocate for education services for low-income families. I feel so lucky because I get to focus on education law, which is what I want to go into. I’m getting a great balance of hands-on work and research experience. I went to several IEP meetings with my boss where we advocated for services, researched multiple educational issues and got the chance to examine a witness at a fair hearing.
How will this experience will help you going forward?
This experience is going to help me immensely because I am learning education law that will help me in my career. I am learning where to search when I have a legal question relating to education. I am also learning about how to use law to help students who may not be getting the services they need. Finally, I am getting to know a lot of the local players in education law.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to work in education law locally.
What advice would you give to prospective law students?
Law school is a great time to work on your professional goals. Once you get into the work force, it can be more difficult to improve things like public speaking, leadership skills and collaboration. Take time during law school to work on your professional goals.
