SU College of Law welcomes Class of 2011

SU College of Law welcomes Class of 2011 August 19, 2008Jaclyn D. Grossojgrosso@law.syr.edu

The Syracuse University College of Law welcomed its 113th first-year law class on Monday as 226 students arrived for a three-day orientation program. Monday’s activities included a formal convocation with SU Chancellor and President Nancy Cantor; Melanie Gray L’81, a member of SU’s Board of Trustees; and College of Law Dean Hannah R. Arterian. Other orientation opportunities include discussions and tours with second-and third-year law student mentors, as well as small group meetings with nearly 30 alumni who have returned to campus.

As part of orientation, on Wednesday, Aug. 20, the College of Law’s Office of Student Life will partner law students with the City of Syracuse and local nonprofit organizations to complete a community service project. Law students will be separated into small groups and sent to city parks and schools to clean buildings, pick up litter, and landscape. In addition, students will prepare food and serve a meal to clients at The Rescue Mission.

Entering students come from 29 states and 12 countries. While the average student age is 24, the range in age spans almost 30 years. Nearly half of the first-year class is female, while students of color account for 27 percent. Close to 68 percent of the students are non-New York state residents representing 138 undergraduate colleges and universities; 7 percent have advanced degrees.

“We are excited for the start of a new year and proud to welcome these students to both the SU and College of Law communities,” says Nikki Laubenstein, director of admissions for SU College of Law.