Students from Niagara University’s Pre-Law Student Association (PLSA) traveled to Chicago from Friday, October 23 through Sunday, Oct. 25. On this trip, students had the opportunity to visit DePaul University College of Law, Benesch Law Firm, and the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) Law School Forum. Students also had the opportunity to connect with various NU alumni throughout the trip.
Day One: Friday, Oct. 23
The group departed from Buffalo early Friday morning and arrived in Chicago, where students had time to check into their hotel before beginning the day’s activities. Their first stop was DePaul University College of Law, followed by a visit to Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff (Benesch Law), where they met with Niagara University alumna Emily Wilbur ’20. At DePaul University College of Law, students were welcomed for lunch and an information session with aAssistant Dean of Law Admissions Amanda Noascono. During the session, students learned more about what DePaul has to offer, its law school admissions process, and the opportunities available to prospective students. Students also had the opportunity to ask
questions before taking a tour of the law school led by a current law student.
Following their visit to DePaul, students traveled to Benesch Law, where they met with Niagara University alumna Emily Wilbur, a current Intellectual Property Associate. Students had the opportunity to learn more about Emily’s journey from Niagara University to law school and her experiences working in the legal field. They were also able to ask questions about her career and gain insight into the different opportunities available within the legal profession. Following their discussion, students were given a tour of the law firm.
Day Two: Saturday, Oct. 24
On Saturday morning, the group attended the Chicago LSAC Law School Forum, which brought together more than 100 law schools from across the country. Students had the opportunity to connect with admissions representatives, deans, and current law students while exploring schools that aligned with their academic interests and future career goals. Throughout the forum, students could also attend workshops covering topics such as the LSAT, financial aid, and the law school admissions process.
While attending the LSAC Forum, students also had the valuable opportunity to connect with Niagara University alumnus Trejahn Hunter, a practicing attorney and environmental advocate. Students learned more about Trejahn’s journey from Niagara University to law school and his professional experiences. They also had the opportunity to ask follow-up questions and gain additional insight into his career in the legal field.
Saturday concluded with an alumni group dinner at Giordano’s. Students were joined by several Niagara University alumni, including Casey Brown, ’23, a current 3L at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, Gabby Moran, ’23, a current 2L at the University of Illinois College of Law, and James Bova, ’14, Senior Counsel at Alight Solutions.
Throughout the dinner, the alumni shared some reflections on their experiences after graduating from Niagara University, as well as their journeys into the legal profession and law school. Their willingness to share advice, experiences, and personal insights gave students a valuable perspective on the many opportunities available within the legal field. This event provided a valuable opportunity for students to build connections with alumni.
Day Three: Sunday, Oct. 25
On Sunday, students had the opportunity to enjoy some free time exploring Chicago before departing for Buffalo and returning home.
Overall, the PLSA’s trips continue to be among the highlights of each semester. These experiences provide students with valuable opportunities to explore law schools, connect with legal professionals, and learn directly from Niagara University alumni who have gone on to pursue careers in the legal field. Beyond the professional and educational experiences, these trips allow students to build meaningful relationships and connect with both the Niagara University community and the broader legal profession.
