UH Law Alumni Offer Real World Perspective to Newly Admitted Students
Summary: The University of Houston Law Center’s second Spring Admitted Students Day gave incoming students a candid look at law school life, academic rigor, flexible program options, and legal career pathways through conversations with alumni, students, and Dean Leonard M. Baynes.
Key Takeaways
- Admitted students heard directly from UHLC alumni and current students about balancing law school with work and life responsibilities.
- Panelists highlighted the flexibility and national standing of UH Law’s Part-Time Program.
- The event included information on financial aid, careers, and academic life, plus a mock contracts class.
- Attendees concluded the day with a reception and tour for a fuller picture of life at UH Law.
APR. 17, 2026—The University of Houston Law Center recently hosted its second Spring Admitted Students Day, providing incoming law students with a candid look at law school life, academic rigor and the flexibility of UHLC programs.
The event’s program focused on common concerns of newly admitted students, including time management and returning to academics after a break. Attendees heard directly from UHLC alumni and students about managing courseloads alongside other obligations and how to build a successful second career.
“I just did this and that for about seven years after graduating, finally, when I got to UH, I [realized] this is my chance to really change my life for the better,” said Drew Padley (J.D. ’20), associate attorney at Steptoe LLP, who participated on the alumni panel. “I truly valued my experience here.”
Other panelists included Alejandra Galvan (J.D ’20), attorney at Marrs, Ellis, & Hodge LLP; Islara Irgit (J.D ’13), senior counsel at Chevron; Calvin McKnight (J.D ’18), senior legal counsel at Vitol; and Josephine Sorgwe (J.D ’14), director at BakerRipley. The alumni shared their diverse career trajectories across energy, litigation, nonprofit legal services, corporate policy, and government affairs, demonstrating that there is no single path to law school or the legal profession.
Much of the discussion revolved around UH Law’s nationally ranked Part-Time Program, No. 5 in the nation, and the flexibility it offers students trying to balance law school with work, family responsibilities and other commitments.
“Over and over again, I see that a lot of non-traditional students tend to do really well because they’re not looking at law school as college part two,” said Sorgwe. “They’ve gone through life, they have real responsibilities, and because of that, they approach law school with focus and purpose. If anything, it’s not a disadvantage—it’s an advantage.”
Panelists also stressed the importance of personal wellbeing and avoiding burnout.
“My advice is to really be specific about when you're going to prepare and be almost draconian about it,” said McKnight. “I still watched football, because you're already working and you're going to law school. So, you still need to keep some of your personality and things that make you happy.”
The Admitted Students Day also included presentations on financial aid, career opportunities and professional pathways, as well as a mock contracts class led by Professor Darren Bush for a full UH Law experience.
Throughout the day, current student panelists Abigail Alquiza, 1L; Morgan Billingsley, 2L; Duncan Reedyk, 3L, offered candid insights about navigating law school, creating balance, and leveraging UH Law’s career resources to make the most of Houston’s robust legal market.
The event concluded with a reception and tour, giving prospective students a clear picture of life at UH Law and the community that will support them throughout their legal journey.
Check out the photos from the event
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Admitted Students Day at UH Law Center?
Admitted Students Day is an event for incoming students that offers an inside look at academics, student life, legal career paths, and support resources at the University of Houston Law Center.
Who spoke at the second Spring Admitted Students Day?
Speakers included Dean Leonard M. Baynes, UHLC alumni, and current law students who shared experiences and advice about law school and professional development.
What made the event useful for admitted students?
The event addressed time management, work-life balance, part-time study, financial aid, legal careers, and academic expectations through firsthand student and alumni perspectives.
What is notable about UH Law’s Part-Time Program?
UH Law’s Part-Time Program is nationally ranked No. 5 and is designed to support students balancing school with work, family responsibilities, and other commitments.
