Hannah Robinson
How have you interacted with our alumni network?
I have reached out to various FSU Law alums who are state government employees here in Tallahassee, as well as attorneys back home in Pensacola, for their advice on how they got where they are and the kinds of experiences I should seek out as I work towards a career in public interest law! Many of them have helped me by introducing me to other professionals, advising me on different programs or opportunities to look into, and just taking time out of their day to speak with me and give me some guidance. All of the FSU Law alums I've had the pleasure of speaking to thus far have been very personable and willing to sit with me, and it feels like they really want to help us in our endeavors. Tallahassee especially is a hot spot for government employees, many of whom have ties to FSU Law and are often happy to help us! Even though I want to practice outside of Florida, the alumni network has been an invaluable resource.
What has been the best experience you have had at the College of Law thus far?
My favorite experience has definitely been my entire 2L fall semester because I got to take classes I was highly interested in (3 of which are now tied for my favorites: Legislative Practice, Legislative Power, & Administrative Law) and participate in the Florida Legislative Fellows program, where I discovered that my passions and interests best align with nonpartisan legislative work. Neither the classes nor the professors teaching them (including a judge from the 1st DCA and former House Speaker/FSU President John Trasher) nor the great work experience would have been possible without my being at FSU and going to law school in Tallahassee.
Which professor has been particularly helpful to you during your time at the College of Law?
Professors Slocum and Atkinson have been very helpful to me in my time here! Aside from being a great Admin Law teacher and knowledgeable about government law, Professor Slocum answered all of my questions and helped me think more deeply about my paper for Language & Legal Interpretation because he knew my goal was to get published, and he wanted to help me get there. I also have now taken 3 classes with Professor Atkinson and am his Research Assistant; he's such a kind person who cares very much about students becoming the best attorneys and knowledgeable adults they can be and is interested in hearing about students' career plans and updates!
Why did you become a student ambassador?
I love FSU, and I'm proud to be a double 'Nole. FSU genuinely cares about its students' academic, financial, personal, and mental well-being, and I want to make sure admitted students know that as they consider which law school is a good fit for them. I remember a student ambassador calling me when I was admitted to personally congratulate me and answer any questions I had. This made me feel really welcomed and wanted, and I'm excited to do that for other students!