Advocating for individual rights through media law: Jessica Frederick, L’16

A self-described advocate, Jessica Frederick pursued law with the intent to help others. She found her niche with the Media Law Clinic and its focus on First Amendment and individual rights. Frederick was drawn to the clinic by Professor Mike Kautsch and his open, student-centered teaching philosophy. The seminar’s discussion format exposed Frederick and her classmates to a variety of …

Building confidence through the Criminal Prosecution Clinic: Thomas (T.C.) Penland, L’15

As an aspiring prosecutor, the Criminal Prosecution Clinic was one of the factors that drew T.C. Penland to KU Law. “I knew about the clinic through the admissions process,” Penland said. “That was one of the things that pushed me toward KU. I went in with full expectation of participating in the clinic.” The Criminal Prosecution Clinic has two components: …

Speaking and listening: Bill Walberg & Kasper Schirer, L’15

Before he enrolled in the Legal Aid Clinic, Bill Walberg described his communication skills as “lacking.” “I had a terrible fear of public speaking,” he said. “My first oral argument I panicked and could barely get my argument out. I wanted experience in an uncontrolled setting like the courtroom, and that’s what the Legal Aid Clinic provided for me.” Within …

A ‘particularly meaningful’ experience: Kathleen Watson, L’16

When Kathleen Watson took Professor Craig Reaves’ Elder Law class, she found a passion for helping seniors address the legal challenges that accompany aging. That experience led her to pursue the Elder Law Certificate, which included an externship with Kansas Legal Services (KLS) and a weekly class that covered issues ranging from elder abuse to grandparent rights. “Twice a week, …