Inside the Minds of Rubenstein Scholars: Featuring the Class of 2017
Last fall, David M. Rubenstein, ’73, generously renewed his commitment to the University of Chicago Law School’s Rubenstein Scholars Program with a $13 million gift, which will provide 60 full-tuition scholarships and stipends for outstanding students in the Classes of 2020, 2021, and 2022.
“David’s inspiring gift has transformed the Law School,” said Dean Thomas J. Miles, the Clifton R. Musser Professor of Law and Economics. “His generosity makes it possible for some of our brightest applicants to receive the very best legal education—a University of Chicago legal education.”
The David M. Rubenstein Scholars Program was established in 2010 with an initial gift from Rubenstein, a University Trustee and the co-founder and co-CEO of The Carlyle Group. He renewed his commitment in 2013 and again in 2016 to fund an additional 120 three-year scholarships, ensuring that Rubenstein Scholars would account for approximately 10 percent of students at the Law School. The new gift brings Rubenstein’s support for the program to a total of $33 million since 2010.
The Rubenstein Scholars Program removes the burden of student-loan debt and opens up a wide range of professional opportunities for students, many of whom plan to pursue a career in public service upon graduation or in future years. The Class of 2017 included a record 24 Rubenstein Scholars. Immediately after graduation, eleven of those students began work as law clerks for federal appellate court judges, another six began work as law clerks for federal district court judges, six more started work as associates at large law firms, and one began her job as a public defender. (As of February 2018, more than 20 percent of the graduating JD students in the Law School’s overall class of 2017 were clerking for federal judges.)
Rubenstein Scholarship awards, like all other scholarship awards at Chicago, are kept confidential. But this year, as they approach graduation, many of the recipients in the Class of 2017 agreed to be profiled for the alumni magazine.
ADAM DAVIDSON
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Hometown: Cincinnati, OH
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. James Gwin (US District Court, Northern District of Ohio); the Hon. Diane Wood (US Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit); and the Hon. Guido Calabresi (US Court of Appeals, Second Circuit).
Why did you decide to study law? I developed an interest in civil rights and law's ability to protect and improve the interests of the underprivileged.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? I was surprised at how willing Law School professors were to engage students both intellectually and personally outside of class.
What do you love most about the Law School? There will always be someone to present the best form of the argument opposite yours.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? I would continue to work toward increasing the diversity of the faculty and student body.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Critical Race Theory
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? More than anything, I'll take away the idea of shaping your argument for your audience.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? I was involved in the Federal Criminal Justice Clinic and was amazed at the impact and complexity of the clinic's work.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? An increased focus on public interest careers and clinical education has allowed more students to stay engaged with the Law School.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Get to know your classmates; they are some of the most interesting people that you will meet.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? I was able to make early career choices that I believe will be a long-term benefit, but will be a short-term financial sacrifice.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? I'll look back on conversations – some serious, some very much not – that I've had with classmates sitting in the Green Lounge.
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ALEXANDRA SCOTT
Undergraduate Institution: University of Chicago
Hometown: Laguna Niguel, CA
After Graduation: Covington and Burling, Silicon Valley office
Why did you decide to study law? While working at non-profits, I noticed that major changes were orchestrated through law. I wanted to make a difference as well.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? I hope to be happy with my career and making a difference in a meaningful way.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? The rigor of the discussions, and how much there is to learn from everyone around me.
What do you love most about the Law School? I love that the Law School has taught me to be more open to different ideas and people, and has changed my way of thinking.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? To get rid of fall break and instead have a week off for Thanksgiving.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Trade Secrets with Professor Strahilevitz.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? Transaction costs, for better or for worse. I see these pop up more than I ever would have expected.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? Neighbors and the Criminal and Juvenile Justice project; that it is always worth it to take a few minutes out of your day to help someone else
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? That when all is said and done, I am happy to have come to law school, and to have come to this law school in particular.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Relax and absorb—not the stress but the ideas.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? I'm grateful that it will liberate me to choose what I want my career to be, instead of what it has to be for financial reasons.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? The classes after the 2016 election: a reminder that not only does the world keep turning, but that we can do something about it.
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ANDREW MACKIE-MASON
Undergraduate Institution: University of Chicago
Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. Judge Stephen Reinhardt (US Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit)
Why did you decide to study law? I came to law school to be a public defender, because I wanted to be able to use the law to protect and speak for people who are too often ignored.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? In ten years, I hope to be a public defender and a zealous and effective advocate for my clients.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? Topics I never expected to be interested in—property, contracts, foreign relations law—have been fascinating while also teaching me important new ideas.
What do you love most about the Law School? The Law School is a place where people with wildly different views can debate and come to understand each other, even if they never agree.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? I would like the Law School to be more connected to the communities it is a part of—Hyde Park, the South Side, and Chicago more broadly.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? The Greenberg seminar with Professor Siegler and Dr. Siegler. It's been great to explore important ideas in a fun, informal setting.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? That law should be our way of making the world more just, not an excuse for accepting the injustices we see.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? My time with the Criminal and Juvenile Justice and the Federal Criminal Justice clinics has taught me the value of teamwork, and that there's always more we can do for our clients.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? Every day at this school challenges me to be better: more thoughtful, more hardworking, more compassionate.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? There's nowhere near enough time to take advantage of every opportunity here; focus on the ones that mean the most to you.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? It will allow me to pursue the career I've always wanted with far less concern about finances.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? A pre-2L weekend trip with some of my classmates, building friendships I hope will last for years.
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CARMEL DOOLING
Undergraduate Institution: Arizona State University
Hometown: Glendale, AZ
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. G. Murray Snow (US District Court, District of Arizona)
Why did you decide to study law? I've always loved reading and writing, so it just seemed like a good fit. Plus, the aspirational goal of justice is compelling.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? I'd like to be doing civil rights or immigration litigation, or working in some sort of government role.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? Coffee Mess—it happens every week, but I always forget. Showing up and realizing I'll get a doughnut and coffee is still exciting.
What do you love most about the Law School? The size—coming from a large school like ASU, I love knowing everyone in my class.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? We have amazing professors, but we need to make a bigger push to hire and retain women and minority faculty members.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Antitrust—the law & econ perspective finally made sense and clicked. It also exposed me to new business concepts.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? Not an idea, but getting to know my classmates from so many different backgrounds. It's opened my eyes and built empathy.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? Law Review and Latino/a Law Students Association—both taught me leadership and gave me small families within the larger school.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? Don't worry, the school still lives up to its rigorous reputation.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? I would tell myself to go to office hours more—you don't need to ask a brilliant question. Just get to know the professors.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? Freedom. To travel, to move, to take whatever job I want. I've felt that freedom during Law School, and I know it will continue.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? My favorite Law School memory is a tie between President Obama’s visit last year and winning the Law Review Whirlyball Cup then celebrating in Wrigleyville the day after the Cubs' win.
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CHARLES EATON
Undergraduate Institution: Oakwood University
Hometown: Loma Linda, CA
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. Jesus G. Bernal (US District Judge, Central District of California)
Why did you decide to study law? I decided to study the law because I wanted to have a direct and positive impact on minority communities.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? By then I should have finished my clerkship and also obtained a Masters of Divinity and begun my career as a public defender.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? That I enjoyed many classes in areas that looked boring to me ahead of time.
What do you love most about the Law School? The lunch talks. Free food, new information—what's not to love?
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? I wish there were more professors of color here.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Constitutional Law III with Professor Strauss.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? Using economics as a tool to analyze the law.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? BLSA and the Juvenile Justice Clinic. These experiences reaffirmed that working for minority communities is my life's purpose.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? I made good friends, I was taught by excellent professors, and I'm well equipped to begin my career.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? “Hey Charles, whatever you did to keep yourself sane before law school, don't let those things go now.”
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? It allows me to pursue a career in public defense without fear of loans, and even to get a second degree without worry of debt.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? Making friends in BLSA.
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ELIZABETH KIERNAN
Undergraduate Institution: University of Alabama
Hometown: Metairie, LA
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. Jerry Smith (US Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit), and the Hon. William Pryor (US Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit).
Why did you decide to study law? I decided to study law because I wanted a challenging career that would allow me to make a difference.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? I hope to be working in some capacity for the government.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? How close-knit the Law School is. The Law School is a close community and everyone cares and knows about each other.
What do you love most about the Law School? I love how involved Law School professors are with their students. Professors here know us both academically and personally.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? The ability to take more seminars. Some of the most interesting classes are seminars. The cap really limits our studies.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Constitutional Law I: Governmental Structure.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? Viewing the world and law through a law and economics lens. Considering the incentives is crucial to understanding our legal system.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? Federalist Society. I took away a strong tradition of community, discussion, and debate.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? The Law School fostered debates but also a strong sense of camaraderie among students.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Relax! 1L seems so daunting and stressful, and it really doesn't need to be.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? As someone not quite sure the type of law or legal practice I want to pursue, it gives me the ability to freely explore options.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? Pie Day. I loved that after first quarter 1L grades, we got pie to remind us this was just one slice of our law school career.
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ERIC LEWIN
Undergraduate Institution: Brown University
Hometown: Fair Haven, NJ
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. A. Raymond Randolph (US Court of Appeals, DC Circuit)
Why did you decide to study law? After college, I worked in the world of financial regulation and gradually decided that I wanted to become a regulatory lawyer.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? I hope to be working on engaging and challenging issues as a financial regulatory lawyer.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? The Law School is a tight-knit community beyond purely academic matters, with remarkable students who surpassed my expectations.
What do you love most about the Law School? It is a pleasure to be surrounded by brilliant people who constantly think critically about the law and are also great friends.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? I would love for the Law School to have coffee mess (or at least coffee) every morning instead of only once per week.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? I’ve loved all of my classes so it is hard to pick only one, but Antitrust with Professor Picker was exceptionally fantastic.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? Professor Picker often talks about lawyers as “institutional engineers” who create the plumbing that helps organize society.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? I am an editor for the Law Review and participate in the Kirkland & Ellis Corporate Lab, both of which have provided valuable practical skills.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? Attending the Law School is a privilege, and I am thankful for the opportunity to learn with such a wonderful group of students.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Take time off every now and then to enjoy Chicago.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? The scholarship made 1L year significantly less stressful and afforded me financial freedom, for which I am extremely grateful.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? My year-long experience in the Law and Economics Workshop was particularly formative.
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HOLLY NEWELL
Undergraduate Institution: Washington University in St. Louis
Hometown: Davis, CA
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. Richard A. Paez (US Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit), followed by a clerkship with Chancellor Andre G. Bouchard of the Delaware Chancery Court
Why did you decide to study law? I decided to study law because I wanted to be able to advocate for others and because it matched my academic interests.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? I do not have a set career path at this point, but I hope to still be engaged in learning about developments in the law.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? I was pleasantly surprised by how wonderful the UChicago Law community was—it’s been both an intellectually challenging and enjoyable three years.
What do you love most about the Law School? The people! The professors and my fellow students have pushed me to think about things in new ways.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? It would have been nice to have more time 1L summer, pre-OCI, to have a more thorough working experience at the 1L summer jobs.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? It's hard to pick just one course, but I really enjoyed both Copyright with Professor Picker and Patent Law with Professor Masur.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? Examining how policies or laws may incentivize certain actions has caused me to examine my own views.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? Law Review provided a great insight into legal academia and Neighbors, the community service organization, balanced that nicely.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? The mix of academics and a strong sense of community have challenged me and been such a delight to experience!
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? I would challenge myself to speak up more in class.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? It will allow me to pursue opportunities that come my way, without having to be as concerned about finances in my decisions.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? Spending my 1L summer interning in Slovenia at a Human Rights NGO!
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JASMINE JOHNSON
Undergraduate Institution: University of Pittsburgh
Hometown: Fort Washington, MD
After Graduation: Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, New York office
Why did you decide to study law? I chose to study law so that I would have the ability to give back and help minority communities.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? How much support I have received from students and faculty.
What do you love most about the Law School? I love the collegiality of my Law School classmates and how regularly the faculty interact with students outside of the classroom.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? I would increase the space for and the size of the clinics.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Constitutional Law III.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? Importance of a diversity of ideas within the legal community. This has taught me to approach problems from multiple perspectives.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? I am involved in the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Project clinic, which allows me to help indigent minorities.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? It has challenged us intellectually and allowed us to engage in constructive and enlightening dialogue with each other.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Enjoy the diversity of ideas present within the University of Chicago community.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? The Rubenstein Scholarship will allow me to pursue the career I am interested in while affording me the opportunity to help other minorities.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? Participating in the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Project clinic.
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JOE WENNER
Undergraduate Institution: American University
Hometown: Radnor, PA
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. Sidney Fitzwater (US District Court, Northern District of Texas)
Why did you decide to study law? I went to law school to become a better problem solver.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? It would be a dream to work as a federal prosecutor, but I would be happy tackling any legal issues in the public sector.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? I did not expect so much of my Law School education to come from conversations with my fellow classmates.
What do you love most about the Law School? That anywhere on campus, it is incredibly easy to stumble into a fascinating conversation.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? Increase distance learning opportunities during the winter quarter. (This is a weather joke.)
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Professor Eric Posner’s Law and the Financial Crisis seminar.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? The rules/standards dilemma is everywhere. And I remember the very Elements of the Law class where I had this "a-ha" moment.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? As the president of Public Interest Law Society, I recognized how dedicated some of my classmates are to public service careers.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? The Kapnick Leadership Development Initiative is great and allowed me get to know many more of my classmates than I otherwise would have.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? I would tell myself to show up early so you’re not stuck in the back row of Contracts.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? The Rubenstein Scholarship is an incredible opportunity to pursue a public service career. It truly is a privilege; I plan to make it count.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? My 1L section’s impromptu pizza party held on the steps of the Law School the Sunday before our Bigelow brief was due.
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JONATHAN HAWLEY
Undergraduate Institution: Harvard University
Hometown: Oceanside, CA
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. Philip Gutierrez (US District Court, Central District of California) and the Hon. Milan Smith ’69 (US Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit)
Why did you decide to study law? I wanted to explore how the law can encourage technological and artistic innovation, which are both very important to me.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? I don't know, and that's the best thing about the scholarship: I have incredible options and no limit except my imagination.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? Like all 1Ls, I'd heard about the Law School's competitive reputation, so I was thrilled by my class's collegial spirit.
What do you love most about the Law School? I love the Law School's professors. They are not only the brightest people I've ever met, but also some of the warmest and most inspiring.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? Students now expect greater transparency and open discussion of policies, so I'd like to see more of that at the Law School.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? I'd have to go with Copyright. It's all about how we can maximize creativity and progress, which is both fun and meaningful.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? I've learned that although the law cannot right every wrong, at its best, it can push society in a more just direction.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? Law Review, Kapnick Leadership Development Initiative, and the Law School Musical remind me that my classmates are not only brilliant, but remarkably talented too.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? The Law School is not "where fun goes to die." Quite the contrary, these past three years have been the best of my life.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? If I could go back to the first day of Law School, I'd tell myself to enjoy every minute of it. There's nothing better than debating high principles with your best friends.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? It has given me the privilege to dream. I get to chart my course through life based on my aspirations and ideals, not debt.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? I met my fiancée on our first day visiting the Law School, so every day since has been my best memory.
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JULIA HAINES
Undergraduate Institution: Grove City College
Hometown: Hockessin, DE
After graduation: Clerking for the Hon. Thomas Griffith (US Court of Appeals, DC Circuit)
Why did you decide to study law? I love problem solving, so litigation seemed like a good fit!
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? Practicing patent law.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? How much our professors care about our intellectual and professional growth.
What do you love most about the Law School? How much I learn about the law and life from my classmates.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? I would make the winters warmer?
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Patent Law with Professor Masur.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? The importance of voluntary exchanges!
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? I was involved with the Federalist Society and the Edmund Burke Society. They challenged and formed my understanding of the law.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? It's still rigorous! Students shoulder high standards, but we grow enough to expect even more of ourselves.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Don't fight the hypothetical. That is, solve the problem before you today, not the problem you expected.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? I wouldn't have received a better education anywhere else, and Mr. Rubenstein made UChicago possible for me.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? My favorite memory from Law School is ice skating with Professor Helmholz!
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LINDSAY STONE
Undergraduate Institution: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Hometown: Webster, MA
After Graduation: Working in the Office of the Colorado State Public Defender
Why did you decide to study law? To acquire the tools I needed to help combat mass incarceration.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? Doing what I love, defending the indigent accused.
What do you love most about the Law School? The clinical opportunities.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? I would make UChicago a bigger destination for public interest students.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Constitutional Law III with Professor Strauss
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? I was involved with the Federal Criminal Justice Clinic, where I was able to directly represent clients and develop as an advocate.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? I want alumni to know how crucial the law school's clinical offerings have been to my legal education.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Relax.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? The Rubenstein Scholarship has allowed me to pursue public interest work without the tremendous burden of debt.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? Completing the Intensive Trial Advocacy Workshop.
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MAX FIN
Undergraduate Institution: University of Florida
Hometown: Lynbrook, NY
After Graduation: Latham & Watkins, Houston office
Why did you decide to study law? Part of a lawyer's role as that of a navigator, helping clients brave oft-perilous legal waters. I thought that sounded challenging and interesting.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? I'm focusing on one year at a time, but I hope I find whatever it is to be captivating, stimulating, and still fresh.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? My colleagues may be smart and intellectual, but this is tempered with social and emotional maturity. They have it all, one might say.
What do you love most about the Law School? My friends—they are inspiring, entertaining, dedicated, and loyal. I'm beyond lucky to have them in my life.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? I wish I could take more seminars with practitioners – they've had the most impact on my actual ability to practice, I would say.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? My favorite course as a 1L was either Torts with Professor Levmore or Property with Professor Helmholz. Since then, Chancellor Chandler’s Delaware Law seminar emerged as another favorite.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? I would not have been able to use the lens of economics to analyze law and society writ large before the Law School.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? The Edmund Burke Society proved the adage that learning need not be in a classroom or a serious setting.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? I would like our alumni to know that academic rigor is alive and well at the Law School, but there remains a sense of collegiality and camaraderie that will stay with us forever.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Your impostor syndrome is unwarranted, despite being constantly surrounded by the most fantastic individuals. Focus on your own growth, not that of others.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? I have the freedom to build my career based on interests, rather than needs, and still be able to take care of my family.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? Any dinner with Professor Zarfes of the Corporate Lab. He is incredibly generous with both his time and his stories.
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MICA MOORE
Undergraduate Institution: Columbia University
Hometown: Washington, DC
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. William A. Fletcher (US Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit), the Hon. Vince Chhabria (US District Court, Northern District of California), and the Hon. Elena Kagan (Supreme Court of the United States)
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? Working on challenging problems with interesting people.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? The kindness of my classmates and professors.
What do you love most about the Law School? At roughly 200 students per class, Chicago is smaller than my high school! I love the small size.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? Soia Mentschikoff must be getting pretty lonely—she’s the only woman with a portrait in the main hallway.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? Constitutional Law III with Professor Strauss. Working in the Civil Rights and Police Accountability Clinic has also been a highlight.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? The Law School has taught me the importance of practical thinking. Even the most complicated legal issue still happens in the real world, with real people.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with and what did you take away from those experiences? Law Review, Public Interest Law Society, and ACLU of Chicago Law. In all, it's amazing what you can accomplish by offering food.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Exercise more.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? I'm thankful for the career flexibility the scholarship has offered, and I'm excited to meet our future classes of scholars.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? Getting milkshakes and onion rings at Medici with friends after exams. It’s the best way to unwind after three hours of typing.
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PHILIP EHRLICH
Undergraduate Institution: University of Chicago
Hometown: Lancaster, PA
After Graduation: Clerking for the Hon. Frank Easterbrook (US Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit)
Why did you decide to study law? I’ve always been fascinated by the way lawyers think about and solve all sorts of problems.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years? I hope to be working on problems that are intellectually interesting and that involve issues that I care about.
What have been the biggest surprises about the Law School? That professors genuinely care about getting to know students, and how quickly the coffee at Coffee Mess disappears.
What do you love most about the Law School? I love that the University of Chicago really is a place that cares about ideas. I also love the food at lunch talks.
If you could change one thing about the Law School what would it be? Try to structure classes so that we have more frequent opportunities to apply what we’re learning.
What has been your favorite course at the Law School? In Civil Procedure I, I liked the chance to think about how procedure affects substance.
What is an idea you've encountered at the Law School that has affected the way you think about the world? I think the right answer is the Coase Theorem? But, I’ve been particularly interested in situations when distribution matters.
What extracurricular activities or clinics were you most involved with, and what did you take away from those experiences? I’ve been involved with Law Review and the Abrams Environmental Law Clinic, and I’ve also volunteered with Neighbors as a mentor/tutor.
What would you want alumni to know about the experiences of you and your classmates at the Law School? Even though Chicago is rigorous, most people are nice.
If you could go back to your first day of law school and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? Enjoy being a student again. Take the time to go to interesting lectures and to the gym in the middle of the day.
How do you think the Rubenstein Scholarship will affect your life? The Rubenstein Scholarship will allow me to be more flexible in making career decisions and will let me pursue opportunities I care about.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Law School? Attending President Obama’s conversation with Professor Strauss and hearing two inspiring people talk about the law.