Welcome from the Dean
Dean Ward Farnsworth, John Jeffers Research Chair in Law
The University of Texas Law School is a great place to be a law student — the best anywhere, in my biased opinion. It starts in the classroom. Our professors are the most dedicated teachers you will ever meet; they also are leading legal thinkers who will inspire you, change the way you think, and help you find your calling in the law. But there is far more to this school and its advantages than the superb academic program. Here are four important points that differentiate us from other top schools:
- Quality of life. We take pride in providing the finest student experience in the country. Our 1Ls all participate in a unique program of small societies that provide mentoring, good times, and a sense of community. More generally we’ve managed to create a first-rate academic experience without the hypercompetitive or cutthroat atmosphere often associated with elite schools. Law school is challenging everywhere, at least if it’s done right. Why not come to a place where it’s also fun?
- Austin. This is a related point: Austin is a fantastic place to be. Ask anyone who has ever lived here. It is the live music capital of the world, it has great food, great weather, great recreational things to do and see, a friendly and broad-minded atmosphere, and a huge and diverse student community. It is the fastest-growing city in the country for good reason: most people who come never want to leave. But you can, which brings me to my next point.
- Mobility. This is a world-class law school at a world-class university. Our graduates work all over the country and around the globe. Of course many of them choose to work in Texas, where the school’s reputation has no peer and amazing opportunities abound. But for many others, Texas is not an endpoint and never was. It’s a launching pad. You will get a superb education and credential—and mobility.
- Experiential education. We have one of the most extensive clinical programs of any law school in the country—more than fifteen different clinics, giving every student a chance to work with real clients on real problems under the supervision of gifted teachers. We also have an extensive internship program. These clinics and internships are hugely valuable bridges from the theoretical experience of the classroom to the practice of law. Our students love them.
I urge you to come to Austin, talk with our students, and check out the school for yourself. Be forewarned, though: you probably will want to stay.
