UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State Law in University Park welcomed 131 first-year juris doctor students (1Ls) to the Lewis Katz Building on Wednesday, Aug. 21, and Thursday, Aug. 22, for J.D. Orientation, the beginning of their exciting legal education journey.
Throughout orientation, students had the opportunity to network with their fellow 1Ls, as well as current students, faculty and staff, while learning what to expect in the coming weeks.
“We are thrilled to welcome this class of talented and engaged students to Penn State Law,” said Victor Romero, interim dean of Penn State Law and the School of International Affairs, Maureen B. Cavanaugh Distinguished Faculty Scholar, and professor of law. “I look forward to witnessing all that they will accomplish, both here at Penn State and in the years that follow.”
This year’s incoming class includes students from 29 different U.S. states, one U.S. territory, and four other countries — Canada, France, South Korea and Taiwan. Additionally, the class represents 95 different colleges and universities, including Florida State University, the University of Amsterdam, and National Taiwan University, with the largest contingent of 25 students being Penn State graduates.
“During the application cycle, I had the opportunity to meet many members of the incoming class,” said Bryan Zerbe, director of admissions. “They bring a diverse array of life experiences to the Penn State Law community and many of their stories are inspirational. They are ready to hit the ground running when classes begin.”
Other highlights of the class include:
- 59% took at least one gap year before enrolling in law school.
- 18% are first-generation college students.
- Jobs held include legal assistants and paralegals, and internships with public defenders’ and district attorney’s offices and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
- Several NCAA Division I athletes, including one rower, one swimmer and one ice hockey player.
- Five veterans of the U.S. armed forces who served in the Army, Army National Guard, Navy, Air Force and the Marine Corps.
- One member of the Penn State Blue Band.
Before the official orientation festivities began, many members of the incoming class joined current students and staff for Service Day on Tuesday, Aug. 20. Participants had the option to volunteer with the Student Farm at Penn State, the Centre County Historical Society, Housing Transitions, and The Arboretum at Penn State.
Classes for all Penn State Law students began on Aug. 26.