One of my favorite public service announcements is produced by the NCAA highlighting how student-athletes are “going pro in something other than sports.” I recently watched this commercial during a TU basketball game, and I realized that it has some applicability to law school.

I have the privilege of serving graduates of TU Law as Director of Alumni Relations, but I am also a part-time law student.  While I am currently employed, many of my fellow colleagues in school are concerned about the bleak job market.  On a daily basis I hear:

“Will I find a firm to hire me on a partner track?”

“How will I ever get on at ‘                               and Associates’?”

“There is no way I can pay off my student loans with such low starting salaries!”

Here’s a solution I adapted from the NCAA P.S.A. spot – go pro some place other than a law firm.  The legal market has changed and is not likely to return to the glory days of partner-track offers, six-figure starting salaries, and corner offices with rich mahogany furniture.  The problem is many students won’t buy into the idea that there is life outside of a law firm.

That’s where you come in as TU Law Alumni.  How are you using your degree some place other than a law firm?  I know there are a lot of alums out there working for major corporations, supporting non-profits, or pursuing a career in academia.  TU Law needs your help by sharing your success stories with our students so they know a law degree opens doors to many fields outside the hallowed walls of

“                                     and Associates.”

Share your stories by commenting below, or e-mail me at calvin-moniz@utulsa.edu.

- Calvin Moniz, Director of Alumni Relations for the College of Law and part-time law student