Penn State
Lewis Katz Building, University Park, PA
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Emma Ballentine

Thu, 03/03/2022 - 10:14am -- cvh5484
Hometown: Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 
Expected graduation year: 2023 
  
What made you apply to Penn State Law?
I applied to Penn State Law because both my boss and a coworker at my last job were Penn State alums. They described the campus beautifully and spoke of the tight knit Penn State community fondly. I never had a traditional on-campus experience for undergrad, so the fact that Penn State had such a great campus and community was a huge draw for me.
 
If you were talking to a pre-law student, how would you describe your first semester at Penn State Law? 
My first semester at Penn State Law was difficult but satisfying. It was definitely not easy but seeing how much I overcame and achieved was incredibly satisfying. Taking exams that you are afraid you failed, but later learn that you actually well on is encouraging. Trying out for teams and organizations that you know are competitive, and making those teams is satisfying. Law school is difficult and there is no sugar coating that. But it is also a lot of fun, there is a wonderful community, and there are countless instances where you get to prove to yourself that you belong here. 
 
How different has law school been in reality vs. what your expectations were? 
I majored in criminal justice for my undergraduate, so I had a bit of an idea of what law school was going to be like because many of my professors were law school grads. However, law school is less intimidating than I expected. It is still somewhat intimidating because everyone in law school is so impressive. However, the environment is less cutthroat and toxic than I was expecting. The professors are kinder and more understanding, and my peers have created such a warm and encouraging community. 
 
Are you involved in any student clubs, orgs., etc. that enhanced your Penn State Law experience? If so, in what ways have they enhanced your experience? 
I am involved in a few student clubs and organizations. I am a part of the Criminal Law Society, Phi Delta Phi, Phi Alpha Delta, PAD 1L Mock Trial team, Penn State 1L Mock Trial, Women’s Law Caucus, and the Disability Law Caucus. All of the groups and organizations have enhanced my experience, but so far, my favorites have been the two mock trial teams. The PAD mock trial team and the competition we attended have made my law experience much more enjoyable. I have made a lot of friends through the teams and organizations I have joined. 
 
Did you get an internship?  If so, how do you think PSL prepared you for it? 
So far, I have received two internship offers, with other positions pending. I received an offer from Clearfield DA’s office and the LA County Counsel Office. PSL’s extensive job database on Law Lion Careers helped me through the application and interview process. Also, having interview rooms available was extremely helpful. 
 
What has been your favorite Penn State Law experience so far? 
My favorite Penn State law experience so far would probably be the PAD Mock Trial competition. The PAD mock trial competition was unlike anything I have ever done and was an incomparable experience. I am looking forward to the Barrister’s Ball in a few weeks, because that may outrank the competition. 
 
Where’s your favorite place to go outside of Penn State Law on the University Park Campus? 
When the weather is nice, my favorite place to go on campus is the Arboretum. The gardens are beautiful, and a nice place to relax or study. 
 
What do you like to do when you’re not studying? 
When I’m not studying, I like to hang out with my friends, go shopping in Altoona, or spend time downtown in State College. 
 
 
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I never had a traditional on-campus experience for undergrad, so the fact that Penn State had such a great campus and community was a huge draw for me to apply here.
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