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CLASS OF 2025 STUDENT STORIES

The students in our most recent graduating class of 2025 have wrapped up their law school careers, but they have a wide range of possibilities ahead of them. From studying for the Bar Exam, to excitedly planning on beginning their already secured jobs and clerkships, here are a few stories, plans, and memories of law school from this amazing group of graduates.

peter bouck
 
Peter Bouck
Senior Notes Editor, Vol. 55 of The University of Memphis Law Review
Chief Justice, Honor Council
 
What is one special memory that stands out from your time at Memphis Law?
 

I remember that Professor Jennifer Brobst invited those of us in Evidence class who were parents to record interviews with our children to assess whether they would be competent to testify in court. "What's the difference between the truth and a lie?" and so forth. She then played the responses in class. 

What are your plans post-graduation?

My post-graduation plans are to clerk for Chief Judge Sheryl H. Lipman on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, and from there to join Memphis firm Martin Tate as an associate.


mary cano
 
Mary Cano
President, Hispanic Law Student Association
2024 Memphis Bar Association Access to Justice Pro Bono Award Winner
 
What is a special memory that stands out to you from your time in law school?
 

It's hard to pinpoint just one standout memory, because what truly left a mark on me was a collection of moments—my time doing pro bono work during my externship with the CLC, and the many legal clinics I attended. In each of these experiences, working directly with members of the community, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that access to legal support can have on someone’s life.

Many of the people we helped would have had nowhere else to turn without these clinics or organizations like the CLC. Being part of that —offering guidance, hope, and a path forward—showed me exactly why I chose a career in law. It was in serving others and through these moments that didn’t just reaffirm my commitment to the law; they became the fuel that kept me going throughout parts of my law school journey and will continue to fuel me as I start my career as an attorney. 

What are your plans post-graduation?

I will be staying in Memphis after graduation and working in the area of immigration law at Siskind Susser, PC.


Ciana

Ciana Charity
Vice-President, Student Bar Association
Judicial Law Clerk, The Hon. Gina C. Higgins
Member, National Mock Trial Team
Student Ambassador, Law Admissions
 

What is one special memory that stands out from your time at Memphis Law?

One memory that stands out isn’t tied to a single day — it’s the collective experience of working with victims and witnesses during my time at both the Public Defender’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office. There’s something sacred about being the person someone leans on in the midst of their trauma — explaining court procedures, walking them through their fears, and simply being present when the system feels overwhelming.

But just as meaningful are the people I met along the way. From classmates who became lifelong friends and colleagues, to professors who poured into me with wisdom and patience, to judges and attorneys who became mentors I now consider part of my extended legal family — each connection has shaped me in a unique and lasting way. These are people I will forever cherish and appreciate. Memphis Law gave me more than an education — it gave me a community, a calling, and a future filled with purpose and people I’m proud to stand beside.

What are your plans post-graduation?

Now that I’ve graduated, my immediate focus is on bar prep — one final mountain to climb before I officially begin practicing law. I’ll be sitting for the New York State Bar Exam, and once that chapter is complete, I plan to begin my legal career in prosecution. Long term, my goal is to use my legal education and military background to serve communities through justice-driven leadership, eventually working in criminal justice policy and reform. I’m passionate about making sure the law doesn’t just function, but that it works fairly — especially for those most often overlooked. While I’m leaving Memphis, I’m carrying everything I’ve learned here with me — lessons from the classroom, from courtrooms, and from the people who’ve shaped my journey.


ben elliott

Benjamyn C. Elliott
Managing Editor, Vol. 55, The University of Memphis Law Review
 

What is one special memory from your time at Memphis Law?

It's hard to single out one moment, but Orientation Week during my 2L year was a bright spot.  I had the chance to serve as a Peer Mentor for the new 1L class, attended the Welcome Party, and I experienced our Law Review new member Orientation.  That was one of the first times where I felt like I knew, somewhat, what I was doing.  Or at least, I knew what direction I was going.  Reuniting with my peers and beginning Law Review work around that time was a good mental reset that helped prepare me for a difficult 2L year.

What are your plans post-graduation?

I plan to complete a year-long clerkship for the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee.  After that, I plan to clerk for an appellate court for a term.  Long-term, my hope is to enter practice in public interest litigation in late 2027.


stillwell

Megan Stillwell
Senior Symposium Editor, Vol. 55, The University of Memphis Law Review
Member, Moot Court Board
 

What is one special memory from your time at Memphis Law?

One special memory from Memphis Law was getting to plan and execute Law Review’s annual symposium. It was an incredibly rewarding experience to assemble Volume 55’s symposium book, coordinate with local and national scholars, and create an interactive CLE event full of stimulating discussions.

What are your plans post-graduation?

Beyond studying for the Bar, I will start in September as an Associate Attorney with Butler Snow in the Torts, Transportation, and Specialized Litigation practice group.

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