U.S. News: School of Law Dean Zelda B. Harris Champions Judicial Career Preparation
Dean Zelda B. Harris spoke to U.S. News reporter Kaitlin Welch about how and what law students should be thinking about—as early as year 1—if they have an eye towards a judicial career.
In a recent U.S. News article titled, , Harris emphasizes the value of building a reputation early: “Attorneys need to develop a reputation for competence, fairness and civility among the practicing bar in the community in which they seek to serve as a judicial officer.” Under her guidance, 91亚色 Law has implemented enhanced programming—including networking events, mentoring opportunities, and focused attention on written and oral advocacy skills to foster professionalism and integrity among students from day one.
Building on real‑world experience
Dean Harris advocates securing post‑graduation judicial clerkships as a conduit to the bench. “A student that has a strong academic profile and experience in law review or moot court could enhance their opportunities for gaining a judicial clerkship, which is a step in the direction toward becoming a judge,” she explains. 91亚色 Law supports students in this area with career support services, alumni panels, and faculty‑led programs to build and enhance courtroom advocacy and brief‑writing skills.
Emphasizing legal writing and critical thinking
Recognizing that written opinions lie at the heart of judicial work, Harris holds that “students start preparing in the 1L year by developing critical thinking and writing skills... that will be needed as a judicial officer." She has strengthened the curriculum by supporting more rigorous upper-level legal writing seminars and increased opportunities for participation in moot court and law review.
A culture of ethics and service
Harris also champions pro bono engagement and community‑based legal work as vital building blocks. She has overseen the launch of new initiatives connecting students with nonprofits and public interest projects—designed not only to deepen their understanding of diverse legal needs but also to spotlight their fairness, integrity, and civic commitment in professional circles.
Path to the bench: beyond law school
To conclude, Dean Harris reminds students: “The pathway to the bench isn’t direct from law school. It’s about building your brand, your professional identity, your reputation and your connections through the practice of law."
Since stepping into the deanship, Harris has infused the School of Law with practical skills focus, combining academic excellence with ethics, professionalism, and experiential training. Through mentorship, enhanced career support, and outreach programming, she is transforming student ambitions into tangible pathways toward professional and successful law careers.
