While the curriculum for 1Ls tend to be predetermined, Loyola is unique because it allows us to select an elective in our second semester. It is a great way for us to start exploring fields of interest. Loyola offers dozens of classes to choose from. Click here to check out the list of all the courses.
I chose to take Juvenile Justice and I love exploring children’s Constitutional rights and learning about how children navigate the justice system. But you guys hear enough from me, so I have decided to ask some of my classmates to share their experience with the elective classes. Below Mariam talks about her experience with Domestic Violence and Alex shares his on Law and Poverty.
Mariam on her Domestic Violence Seminar elective
What’s your name? Where are you from?
My name is Mariam Rahman, and I am originally from Cairo, Egypt. Chicago has always been the place for me, as I have been here most of my adult life. My family moved a lot when we were younger, but we were attached to Chicago with a rubber band, which I am grateful for since it helped me end up at Loyola Law.
Why did you choose to go to law school?
I chose to go to law school because I truly believe that education is the one thing no one can take away from you. I think it is so important to educate yourself as much as you can so that you always have something to fall back on. I majored in Sociology, Criminology and Philosophy in my undergraduate college, and naturally was drawn to law school through my social science background. I also came to law school, as cliché as it sounds, to make a difference. Everyone in their life needs help at some point, and I want to be the person that is able to help others in need when they find themselves at odds with the law. Any career can be one that can make a difference.
What course did you choose for your elective credit and how many students are in it?
I chose the Interdisciplinary Domestic Violence Seminar with Professor Harris, with a class size of about 18 students. We are learning about what kinds of domestic disputes occur within Illinois, and what measures are being taken to help the victims, rehabilitate the abusers, and make a change in the issue at hand.
Why did you choose this class?
I have always been interested in the dynamics of family life, as I have seen too many people be abused by their loved ones, and truly think that it is their fault. I wanted to learn more about how to help the victims and how to actually treat the abusers, instead of just pushing them away and allowing them to abuse their next partner.
What are some things you like about it?
I like this class because it is very laid back and all the students feel very comfortable talking about different experiences they have had and asking any kinds of questions that come to mind. The professor is very knowledgeable, and brings in guest speakers to help us understand what different people are doing to help domestic violence disputes from happening. I also love the connections I am making, and because of this class, I will be working with a Judge in the Domestic Violence courthouse this summer.
Alex on Law and Poverty elective
What’s your name? Where are you from?
Alexander Miles Monetti; Kansas City, MO
Why did you choose to go to law school?
I chose to come to law school because I believe law, at its best, can be a safeguard for social justice. The system is imperfect, as all man-made institutions inevitably are, but the potential for law to protect the most highly valued principles in our society is unparalleled.
Where’s your favorite place in Chicago and why?
My favorite place in Chicago is the Magnificent Mile. Come on now, who doesn’t like a street with every store you could possibly need? Not to mention the 5-story Burberry shop.
What course did you choose for your elective credit and how many students are in it?
My elective credit this semester is Law and Poverty, with Professor Henry Rose. Approximately 30 students are in the course. The course covers topics that affect the most impoverished Americans on a daily basis. We have covered Medicare, Medicaid, Unemployment Insurance, Disability Insurance, Social Security and equal protection actions.
Why did you choose this class?
I chose Law and Poverty because I believe one of the major flaws in the American justice system is the monetary burden placed on parties. Impoverished individuals often have difficulty reaching the court system to enforce their rights because they simply do not have the financial assets to engage in a lawsuit. I wanted to learn about what challenges these individuals face in the legal realm and how I can best act to overcome those challenges.
What are some things you like about it?
Professor Rose is dedicated and enthusiastic. He does not merely teach this course, he lives it. It is evident in every class lecture and discussion that this course is more than an academic overview of theories; it is a hands-on analysis of problems facing people now. Unlike many classes 1Ls are required to take, this course focuses on current cases and issues, providing students with a working knowledge of the legal disposition on present issues.
Questions for Amie? Email law-admissions [at] luc [dot] edu with the subject “Ask Amie” and she will make sure to answer them.