Rebekah Sexton (JD 10)

Tell me something special or interesting about your background before you went to law school?

I completed my undergraduate education (at the University of Michigan) in only two years. While in college, I worked as a bridal consultant, which I absolutely loved. When I entered law school at 21, I was the youngest student in my class.

Why did you decide to go to law school?

All through elementary school, I always thought I would become a doctor. That idea continued right up until I took chemistry in 11th grade and realized I had to find a new profession. In high school, I completed a few government classes and then interned at my local courthouse after graduation. From then on I was certain that I would become a lawyer. My major in college was political science and I loved my classes. Now, I am planning to pursue a career in personal injury law so I can combine my interest in medicine with the law. I suppose I was always destined to become an attorney- as a kid, my Dad used to joke that I could argue with a wall if it had a face painted on it.

Tell me something special or interesting about your law school experience.

After my first year, I was fortunate enough to participate in a study abroad program in Chile through American University. At the time I was considering a focus in international law. In college I minored in Spanish and had always wanted to go abroad. I never expected to have the opportunity in law school and am still so grateful to GGU for allowing me the chance to study and work abroad. That semester made my law school experience complete.

What is your greatest source of motivation/support as you work towards your JD?

I am fortunate to have a strong network of family, friends and faith-based support. They definitely keep me focused on that light at the end of the tunnel. I try to always bear in mind my long-term goals. I understand that the practice of law is so vastly different from the study of it. I remind myself of this fact every time I am mired in a difficult course (or exam). As long as I just take it semester by semester, I know I'll succeed.

What is your favorite thing you do when you are not at law school?

I sing at The Rock Church in Mountain View multiple times a week. I also LOVE to shop. That can be a little difficult at times, but I've become a really skilled bargain shopper. Every chance I get I visit with my long-distance boyfriend, who is living in Florida, and my family back in Michigan.

What message/advice do you have for your fellow law students?

The best advice I can give students is to manage your time well. It may take a while but you have to figure out how you learn best. This past year, I realized that I learn much better when I turn my outlines into charts and when I read ahead beyond each day's assignment. Working ahead gave me the opportunity to take many more practice exams during the study period, which paid off for me.

I also think it is imperative for first-years to take advantage of the upper class students. The students at GGU are the best resource for examples of outlines, advice on books, professors and all sorts of random things. Don't be afraid to ask your peer mentor or any other upper class students for help! The GGU community is such a non-competitive environment. We all want each other to succeed here. Feel free to approach me if you see me on campus or even send me an email at rebekahsexton@yahoo.com

Elana Konstant is the Assistant Director for Public Interest Programs at GGU. She wishes to thank Rebekah for taking time out of her precious August vacation to answer these questions. Please feel free to stop by her office in 62 First Street to share your story or some bargain shopping tips.