Alex Lowder, Class of 2009
Legal interests: Business, civil rights
Bachelor’s degree: AB in Psychology, Harvard University, 2002
Hometown: West Covina, Calif.
Dream job: High school basketball coach
Quote: Law school is tough, but it’s a lot easier when you go to school in San Diego.
1) What made you decide to come to USD School of Law?
I was extremely impressed with the faculty, administration and students when I visited the campus prior to my first year. My sister, who is a law professor, joined me for the campus visit day, and we both noticed that everyone was happy to take the time out to greet the admitted students. Prior to visiting campus I was already comfortable with USD's reputation in the legal community and knew that I would receive a top-notch legal education. The fact that students seemed to genuinely enjoy going to school here sealed the deal.
2) During your first week here, what was one of the first things that impressed you?
I was very impressed by how friendly and accommodating all of the upperclassmen were. Every day I met new people who offered to help make my transition smoother. I can't imagine a better way to start law school.
3) What activities have you been involved in at USD School of Law?
Over the course of the past two years, I've served as an officer for the Black Law Students Association and the Business Law Society. I have volunteered for the Women's Law Caucus and served as the USD Law Ambassador. Currently I am an editor for the San Diego International Law Journal and the chair of Appellate Moot Court Board and a proud 1L-mentor.
4) How hard is law school? Is it more or less work than you thought?
I'd say that law school isn't harder than I thought, but it is definitely more time-consuming than I anticipated.
5) What is the best thing that has happened to you here at law school?
Easy answer, being a member of the Moot Court Board.
6) What is some of your previous professional experience? How did that experience help you decide to go to law school?
Before coming to law school, I worked in sports for four years. I spent three years as an account executive in premium seating department for AEG Worldwide. I sold luxury suites and club seats for the Staples Center in Los Angeles, and yes it was as fun as it sounds. Working in sales is challenging and forces you to communicate effectively and to be persuasive. Even though I appreciated the experience and I loved the perks, sales wasn't the career that I was looking for. However, I used my time at Staples to talk to my clients about their careers, and those discussions pointed me towards law school.
7) What advice would you give to a prospective student? What things might you have done differently?
My advice would be to talk to as many attorneys and law students as you can. You can't have enough information before you commit to law school. And take the LSAT class; just think of it as an investment. A few points in the right direction, and the class pays for itself.
