#Fisher2020: Legal Studies Major Ready for Law School

In five years, St. John Fisher College alumna Katie Smith ’20 hopes to be either a criminal defense attorney or working at a private law firm. A recipient of the Service Scholarship, Smith was a legal studies and history double major with a minor in ethics.

“Attending Fisher has given me the hands-on education that worked best for me,” she says. “Coming from a small town and high school, the small classes made me feel very comfortable in my transition from high school to college.”

At Fisher, she jumped into every experience, completing three internships through the legal studies program and serving as captain of the Mock Trial Team, which she credits with helping her build leadership and professional skills. She also engaged in an international experience in Greece, vising nine countries while studying the culture and history of the Mediterranean country.

In the fall, she will take the next step toward pursuing her career goals as she enrolls at the Western New England School of Law in Springfield, Massachusetts, and Smith says her Fisher education has readied her for the challenge.

“I have learned a lot about professionalism, leadership, and resilience and have been able to prepare for law school more than I have ever imagined.”