Launched just last year by the Office of Career Management (OCM), the 1L Coaching Teams are back again by popular demand! Rooted in the Jesuit values of competence, conscience, and compassion, the coaching teams go beyond the classroom to nurture and challenge students as they work to transform their interests into careers alongside the invaluable mentorship of our beloved Santa Clara Law alumni.
Serving as a direct gateway into the Bronco Network, this program empowers first year law students to delve deeper into self-exploration throughout their time in law school. By connecting with alumni from some of the leading companies and law firms in Silicon Valley and beyond, students are able to explore career paths–from tech startups to established corporations–and gain insights into specialized practice areas such as intellectual property law, corporate litigation, and venture capital financing.
This exposure helps our students tailor their career aspirations, leverage alumni expertise for guidance, and navigate the competitive landscape of the Bay Area with confidence. But above all else, the coaching teams seek to nurture students’ compassion and sense of belonging in the Santa Clara Law community. Fostering an environment where every student feels supported and valued on their journey towards personal and professional growth.
“Finding a sense of belonging in law school is a huge part of feeling successful during that 1L year. I am grateful to be part of the Coaching Teams initiative because it fosters initial connections between students and Santa Clara Law alumni. My favorite part is that this program provides some structure to those conversations about navigating the transition into the legal profession. These are discussions I didn’t always feel comfortable raising as a first-generation law student myself,” says Whittley Pike, OCM Director of Law Career Development.
To kickoff this year’s coaching teams there will be a breakfast hosted at Charney Hall on September 20, 2024 that is open to all 1Ls and alumni mentors.
Looking to become a mentor for the coaching teams or have any questions about the kickoff event? Click here for more information or email Whittley Pike at wpike@scu.edu.
