During Homecoming this past weekend, Presbyterian College had the pleasure of welcoming Mrs. Haley Williams, a practicing lawyer. Hosted by the Pre-Law Club and Pre-Law minor, Mrs. Williams met students interested in pursuing law to share insight from her journey through the law. Mrs. Williams gave valuable insight on the law school application process, creating your own firm, and how to balance both personal and professional life. 

Mrs. Williams began by sharing her path to becoming a lawyer. She detailed how her experience was in law school and challenges that she faced within law school. She spoke about the perseverance, discipline, and flexibility that law school and the field demand. She also described the need to be dedicated and consistently learn. Her openness about practicing law allowed students to get an honest look at the legal field to evaluate if they would like to pursue the field of law. 

One of the most important moments of her discussion was centered around the law school application process. She encouraged students to be authentic and to reflect their drive. She took the time to individually ask each of us what our motivations were and how we plan to use that motivation. She highlighted the importance of developing strong reading skills. In her personal experience, she described learning more about how to write in law school. She provided great resources to students in attendance, such as internships or opportunities to come watch court. 

Mrs. Williams shared about opening her own practice. She was open and honest about any questions that students had. She described how she learned to run a business even with little experience. For the students in the room, her journey showed the many different ways that you can define success in the industry as well as more than just one way to approach the law. Mrs. Williams showed that following one’s values and passions can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career. 

Personally, Mrs. Williams broadened my understanding of what it means to be a lawyer. She portrayed being a lawyer as not only a career but also a service in the pursuit of justice. Her work makes a true impact on people’s lives, and it is clear that she is driven by the passion to help people. Her words served as proof that lawyers truly can have the power to make a difference. 

Presbyterian College and the Pre-Law Club are grateful for Mrs. Williams for sharing her time, experiences, and encouragement. She provided students with valuable tools and motivation as they prepare for their own legal paths.