Ask the Grad: Class of 2017

Elizabeth Flanagan '17

President of Pro Bono Society

What’s your most memorable experience from Villanova Law?

"This year’s Spring Break trip – I coordinated a group of 5 law students to do immigration clinics in different small towns throughout Northeast PA. Having the opportunity to spend a week meeting real individuals, hearing their stories and trying to come up with strategies to help them was a really incredible experience. It was also so inspiring to see my classmates—some of them for whom this was their first experience working directly with clients—jump in and take on this complex and emotionally challenging project. I was so impressed by both the strength of the individuals I met and by the passion and dedication I saw from my fellow law students. Overall, it was an amazing and unforgettable week that I felt really lucky to have been a part of."

Amelia Curotto '17

Editor-in-Chief of the Jeffrey S. Moorad Sports Law Journal

What are you going to miss most about law school?

I’ll miss the amazing staff of Villanova Law who truly made the school feel like a second home. I will especially miss chatting with Lamar, Brenda and Tonya in the cafeteria in the mornings, Regina and Mary during the multiple times I would enter and leave the library every day, and Suzette at the security desk on my way out at night.

Evan Holland '17

President of Moot Court Board

What are you most excited about after graduation?

Beginning the next chapter! I’ve been a student my whole life, but am excited to take on new challenges and put the tools I have acquired along the way to good use to make a difference.

What advice would you give the incoming Villanova Law class of 2020?

My advice would be not to lose sight of why you came to law school. Don’t be afraid to carve out your own path and be original. Keep growing, keep moving and keep learning each and every day.

Gabriella Soreth '17

Editor-in-Chief of the Environmental Law Journal

What are you going to miss least about law school?

I am certainly NOT going to miss taking exams using the EXAM 4 software. Could that program be any more terrifying? Especially for a 1L?? It is like the electronic version of a tiny jail cell that will release you only after three hours of torture and most likely, a B on your exam.

Effi Taylor '17

President of the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law Black Law Students Association (BLSA)

What are you going to miss most about law school?

My family, the Black Law Students Association.

What advice would you give the incoming Villanova Law class of 2020?

Remember that there are no two people that are the same. We all have our strengths and weaknesses. Realize, accept and appreciate that everyone’s journey to the finish line will be different. Focus on your path and journey, own and embrace it, and most importantly incorporate the Villanova Law community into it. Don’t just pass through the walls of the school; let our community and culture pass through you. Be an active member in the law school family and take advantage of everything Villanova has to offer, and I mean everything. Set aside your fears and hesitation, and get ready to embark on an adventurous journey of learning, bonding, leadership, service, tears, smiles and many more. Congratulations and welcome to our beloved home! The sky is the limit.

Lauren Anthony '17

Editor-in-Chief of Villanova Law Review

What are you going to miss most about law school?

Learning from our incredibly talented and knowledgeable faculty

What are you most excited about after graduation?

Having the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge that I learned in law school

What advice would you give the incoming Villanova Law class of 2020?

The Law School offers students many opportunities to learn about different areas of the law, whether it be through a student group, externship, or clinic. Use these opportunities to explore an area that you are not familiar with, and you may end up finding that you are truly passionate about something.

Phillip Harrinarine '17

President of Student Bar Association

What are you going to miss most about law school?

I am going to miss the sense of community the most at Villanova Law. My classmates and I have developed very close relationships that extend beyond the classroom, and that’s a blessing to be able to walk away from Villanova Law with very good friends.  

What advice would you give the incoming Villanova Law class of 2020?

I would tell the incoming Villanova Law Class of 2020 to be open and talk to as many people as possible. Make friends and connections and enjoy the three years because they go by extremely fast. Prepare yourself for a lot of work, but surround yourself with people that will make the journey enjoyable and exciting.