St. Mary’s University students are gaining first-hand insight into professional education through experiential learning opportunities that connect academic study with future career paths.
In late January, Dr. Duncan MacLean, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, accompanied 12 St. Mary’s students from the pre-law club visited the University of Calgary Faculty of Law for an in-depth introduction to law school life. Students heard from Dr. Laura Spitz, the newly appointed dean of law, along with the assistant dean and the head of recruitment and admissions. The visit provided students with practical information about admissions, academic expectations and career prospects.
Faculty leaders also offered insight into the culture of the law school, which speakers described as supportive and community-oriented. Like St. Mary’s, students were amazed to learn that the program’s demographic makeup includes a high proportion of women.
Following a tour of the law building, including the Moot Courtroom, classrooms and the law library, students met with St. Mary’s alumnus Scott McKenzie. A former Liberal Studies student, McKenzie is currently in his second year of a combined law and MBA program at the University of Calgary. He led a two-hour discussion focused on the realities of law school, application process and student life.
The experience left a lasting impression on participants.
“Students told me the experience helped put into focus the possibility of attending law school,” MacLean said. “Many of the worries or fears they may have had were dampened after speaking with the deans, who were very welcoming and informative. The visit allowed students to imagine themselves attending law school, seeing students studying in the law library, moving through the hallways to classes, and spending time together in the student lounge. Concrete experiences like this help our students better understand whether law school is the place for them.”
The visit reflects St. Mary’s ongoing commitment to experiential learning by connecting students with alumni, partner institutions and opportunities that support informed decision-making about their academic and career futures. We’re deeply grateful to UCalgary Law for their warm hospitality, and are excited for our students who aspire to join the legal profession someday.