Texas A&M University School of Law welcomed the class of 2016 during the first day of new student orientation on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2013.

The incoming 1Ls represent 84 different universities and colleges. Ages range from 20 to 58 and applicants hailed from 18 different states and countries as far away as Pakistan to be a part of this class. 

Aric Short, interim dean of the law school, welcomed the new 1Ls during the convocation. Short spoke to the students about professionalism and the resources available to them as law students.

“Your professionalism training starts now. Law school is a great opportunity to learn how to deal with stress,” Short said.

Short also emphasized the importance of getting involved in the community.

“We have a pro bono requirement,” Short said, “Students must complete 30 hours of pro bono work to graduate.”

Kristy Blanchard, president of the Texas Young Lawyers Association, spoke about the resources available to students at the TYLA and about the importance of networking.

“Start building relationships now while you are at law school,” Blanchard said.

Lisa Tatum, president of the State Bar of Texas, followed Blanchard’s remarks and spoke about the Texas Lawyer’s Creed. The creed provides aspirational guidance to lawyers.

Judge Nancy Berger of the 322nd District Court spoke about her experiences as a member of the first graduating class of the law school in 1994 and administered the oath of professionalism to the new 1Ls.

Later on in the day, the new law students attended a professional luncheon that featured a panel of law school alumni. Members of the panel spoke about their experiences in the legal field and some of the ethical issues they’ve experienced.

Orientation continued on Thursday, Aug. 15 with tours of the Dee J. Kelly Law Library.