Profile
Profile
Conor ’05 is using his time at William Mitchell to gain both an international perspective on law and a hands-on look at legal services 
for the poor in the United States. Conor, 25, had already studied in Oslo, Norway, before starting his law school program two years ago. Then, last summer, he took a course in International Criminal Law in Prague.
Now, partway through his last year of law school, Conor has a decision to make about his post-graduation plans: Return to Oslo? Or jump into a career in law?
“I’m still a bit undecided as to what I want to do. I have considered returning to Oslo to finish my graduate degree. I’ve become interested in international law and human rights, particularly in corporate activity around the world. I’m also interested in criminal law and immigration law. I would enjoy the opportunity to study the international arena from a legal perspective.
I graduated from Augsburg College with a B.A. in political science and Norwegian. I was fortunate to win a Fulbright Grant to study at the University of Oslo, so I deferred my acceptance to William Mitchell for a year. I considered several schools, but I felt like William Mitchell was a good fit. I was very interested in being able to participate in clinics and develop practical skills. I thought William Mitchell could provide that.
The clinical experience has been very rewarding. I’ve had an opportunity to help real people with very real problems. I also enjoyed volunteering on a civil commitment case with Vice Dean Eric Janus. The ability to apply the skills and knowledge to help real people is why I came to law school, so it’s an excellent reward.
William Mitchell has a fantastic faculty. I don’t doubt that they’re all knowledgeable in their fields, but they strike me as committed to teaching and training the next generation of lawyers. They’re approachable when students have questions and have always been willing to help me and other students both in and outside the classroom.
William Mitchell has a great student life, too. The people here are generally friendly. I’ve rarely found people who are that ‘stereotypical law student.’ Most people are willing to help each other out.
William Mitchell also has a diverse group of student organizations. One of the greatest things any student can do is to get involved. Getting involved helps people make friends and participate in something you care about and are interested in.
I became a representative to the Student Bar Association Board of Governors my first year of law school. I really like being in a leadership position in my community, and William Mitchell is my community. My second year I became the vice president and then the president. I’m still the president this year, and I’m glad I’ve stuck with it. I enjoy helping the student organizations get into a position to succeed. That’s rewarding.
In my other life, I love to travel. I had an excellent time in Prague this summer and traveling in Norway. I’m also active with the ABA Law Student Division 8th Circuit. I’m currently the lieutenant governor for the Work-a-Day Program in the 8th Circuit, helping coordinate a day geared toward domestic abuse awareness.
Of course, some days it requires a lot of work, and it becomes a bit of a juggling act, but it’s far more rewarding to have something to do than to not get involved.
People thinking about law school should definitely know it becomes a complete commitment – it’s a switch from college. Don’t be afraid to try new things and experience what you can. Classes are important, but, especially at William Mitchell, take advantage of all the practical experience you can. The opportunities are very available at William Mitchell.”