Justin Mazer, Class of 2010
Legal interests: Intellectual property, tax and corporate law
Bachelor’s degree: BS in Computer Science, University of Delaware, 2005
Hometown: Long Island, N.Y.
Dream job: Professional tennis player
Quote: For some people, law school is the worst three years of their lives. So far, my two years at USD School of Law have been the best two of mine.
1) What made you decide to come to USD School of Law?
After visiting for a Campus Visit Day, I knew USD was the law school for me. I got a different feeling compared to any other school I visited. The students I met and spoke to seemed genuinely happy and the professors were all very friendly and personable. In addition, I knew law school would be a very challenging and stressful experience, so it was important to me that I chose a school in an environment that would help offset some of the inevitable stress with activities I enjoy. San Diego seemed like the perfect place to achieve that balance.
2) During your first week here, what was one of the first things that impressed you?
A number of things impressed me about USD during my first week. My professors were all very entertaining, personable and conveyed the material being taught clearly. The upperclassmen were all very welcoming and helpful in getting us acquainted with the school. And the administration did a great job giving the entering class guidance to make the transition into law school as painless as possible.
3) What activities have you been involved in at USD School of Law?
I am a member of the Tax Law Society, Business Law Society and Intellectual Property Law Association. I have also competed in the USD Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition.
4) How hard is law school? Is it more or less work than you thought?
Law school is very challenging. The good news is, the harder you work, the easier it becomes. It definitely requires more work than I thought to achieve the grades I desired. If you go into your first year and don't skip classes or reading assignments, outline what you read, and pay attention/participate in class, you will in all likelihood succeed. And don’t be afraid to ask questions in class and see professors outside of class. It goes a long way.
5) What is the best thing that has happened to you here at law school?
Obtaining a great summer internship at a firm that allowed me to work in an area of law I truly enjoy.
6) What is some of your previous professional experience? How did that experience help you decide to go to law school?
Equipped with a computer science degree and two years of software development experience, I found my background was very different from the majority of law students, and therefore helped me stand out to certain employers. Additionally, coming from a very analytical background has helped me throughout law school because it requires a great deal of critical and analytical thinking.
7) What advice would you give to a prospective student? What things might you have done differently?
Make the most out of all the opportunities USD has to offer. Grades are important, very important, but they’re not everything. Find out what interests you. USD has a number of oral advocacy, journal and clinical opportunities. Additionally, networking activities occur frequently and can be the key to landing that dream job. Take advantage of all these opportunities. And most importantly, don’t expect to put forth minimal effort and receive top grades. You get out of law school what you put into it. You’re going to have to work hard regardless, so you might as well go the extra mile and see greater rewards along the way.
