8/19/2024

The first day of orientation for Delaware Law School’s first-year law students was filled with enthusiasm, anticipation, and words of wisdom from the school’s leadership. Students sat poised in their seats as Dean Todd Clark, Vice Dean Alicia Kelly, and Associate Dean Alice Eakin spoke to the incoming students.

Clark's unmatched enthusiasm echoed through the room as he opened the session.

"It is so thrilling to be here,” he said. “I want you to be excited not to just be a law student, but a law student at Delaware Law School."

Throughout his speech, he encouraged the students to embrace competition, not just with peers at other law schools but also within their own cohort.

"Love to do battle, love to compete. Compete with each other, so you all do better and succeed," he urged.

Clark also highlighted the school's dedication to creating an environment where students feel they belong and can thrive. He also emphasized the importance of prioritizing bar preparation at the outset. “Student success is a collective responsibility shared by the faculty, staff, and students themselves,” he said.

"Bar prep begins from day one," he said. “We will pass the first time! Say it with me! We will pass for the first time!”

Like Clark, Eakin emphasized the school's commitment to supporting students throughout their law school journeys.

"We all have a responsibility to you. Our faculty and staff have an obligation to anticipate the shortcomings and push the strengths," she said. She encouraged students to seek help and engage with their professors early on, rather than waiting until challenges arise.

Kelly reinforced the idea that Delaware Law is a very student-centered school where staff and faculty want to see students succeed. She also spoke about the unique learning approach at Delaware Law, which includes multiple assessments throughout the semester to help students learn continuously.

Students also had the opportunity to share their reasons for choosing Delaware Law School. One student expressed a desire to help children through criminal law, while another was inspired by their godfather, a lawyer. Another student cited their father, a judge, as the motivation behind their decision to pursue a legal career.