The Barrister’s Ball has a long history at KU Law. Here a couple enjoys the event in the early 1980s.
The spring semester has begun, and KU Law students are buckling down in preparation for the busyness that is sure to ensue this semester. This particular KU Law student is already fretting over balancing classes and clinics, moot court and preparing for the spring MPRE. With the ever-growing “to-do” list of a typical law student, it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed and nagged by the question, “Where do I fit in a little fun?”
But, alas, we are in luck!!! The Student Bar Association is putting on its very own “Law Prom,” more officially referred to as the Barrister’s Ball, on Friday, Feb. 24 from 7:30 p.m. to midnight. This year’s theme is “Awards Night.” While the event is an excuse to get all gussied up and boogie down with our friends, many law students do not recognize the tradition that accompanies the ball. The Barrister’s Ball occurs annually at KU Law, and every law school in the country puts on one of its own.
SBA President Michael Andrusak says that this year’s Barrister’s Ball will be something very special. The venue has moved to Maceli’s in downtown Lawrence, and students are excited to see a few modifications to the annual event. Changes this year include adding a full-course dinner buffet and access to a photo booth, in which party-goers can take fun pictures with their friends and have them printed. Another fun addition is the presentation of various “Law School Awards,” voted on by our law student peers. Some lucky students will be crowned “Most Likely to Become a Supreme Court Justice,” “Most Likely to Become a Law School Professor,” and “Most Likely to Never Actually Practice Law,” just to name a few. Don’t worry, though: The traditional dancing will still be a main event. A DJ will be playing music accompanied by an “ultra cool” light display. Tickets include access to the bar, which will be serving wine and microbrews free of charge. Hard alcohol will also be available for purchase.
What KU Law student wouldn’t want to be a part of this fun memory?! But, before you pull those dancing shoes from the back of your closet, you better hurry down to the SBA office and purchase your ticket. This event is limited to 300 guests, and Kaiti Smith, SBA Secretary, said that as of Monday, Jan. 30, only 80 tickets remained. They run $30 a ticket, and students may pay by credit card, cash or check. If you’ve already got your tickets in hand, don’t forget to return your completed awards ballots! I’ve got my tickets, and I’m counting down the days until I can request the “Cupid Shuffle”! Hope to see you all there!
— Suzanne Billam, 2L and Student Ambassador