One reason McGeorge School of Law was of great interest to me was its many legal clinics where students operate as certified law students under the supervision of assigned attorneys. The clinics are primarily “student-run,” which means students handle cases from intake to close, allowing them to gain a depth and variety of experience you can’t get in the classroom. McGeorge School of Law offers various clinics ranging from Elder and Health Law to Immigration Law and Bankruptcy.

During my first year of law school, an older student shared her clinical experience with me and strongly recommended I get involved. She felt her clinical experience prepared her for future employment in ways the classroom didn’t. Since then, I made it a priority to get involved in a clinic. I have been involved in the Elder and Health Law Clinic since the fall semester of my 3L year, and I will continue to work in the Clinic until graduation.

Staying in the Clinic for more than one semester has allowed me to further build upon the skills I’ve learned. Throughout my time in the Elder and Health Law Clinic, I have acquired various skills that I will carry with me into my first post-Bar job. Being in the Clinic has taught me interpersonal skills, what it means to carry and direct a meeting, the importance of organized note-taking and recording, and continued to strengthen my legal research and writing skills. Throughout my time in the clinic, I have handled various cases ranging from estate planning to financial elder abuse.

Serving the community is of great importance to me, and I am passionate about serving vulnerable populations. Prior to attending law school, I was a mentor for children of prisoners and worked with homeless veterans. Upon entering law school, I sought to continue serving vulnerable populations, and the Elder and Health Law Clinic seemed like a great way to assist the elderly with various legal challenges.

Elder abuse is prevalent in our society and it is important we continue to breed passionate advocates to assist vulnerable populations. It has been an honor advocating for my clients throughout my time and involvement in the Elder Law and Health Clinic.

By Kelli Sanshey, a third-year law student at McGeorge School of Law.