Counseller’s Corner

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with first-year law student Mari Sanchez, who began her journey at Baylor Law School as an undergraduate student worker in the Dean’s Office. Mari shares how her early experiences shaped her understanding of the purpose and community that define Baylor Law School, influencing her decision to attend despite the program’s rigorous nature. Now well into her first year, she reflects on the fast-paced workload, first-quarter finals, and the Socratic Method, as well as how she secured her summer internship. She also shares her Waco roots and the significance of remaining in Waco for both her undergraduate studies and law school. This episode provides an encouraging look at the first-year experience at Baylor and offers thoughtful advice for those considering Baylor Law School.

In this episode, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with 2L Roderick Wilson, who spent eight years building a career before choosing law school. He shares what pulled him back to the classroom, how coaching high school hockey in Texas helped him find meaning, and why real-world experience changes how you see the law. Roderick also breaks down his winning brief in Baylor Law’s Ultimate Writer competition, including the mindset and habits that set his writing apart. The conversation turns to civil rights history after a powerful trip to the Fred D. Gray Institute for Human & Civil Rights National Symposium, sponsored by Baylor Missions, Service & Public Life, and what it means for lawyers today who feel called to serve. Sharp insights. Honest reflections. A reminder that the path is not always straight, but it can still lead exactly where you need to go.

Christa Walton took an unconventional path to Baylor Law School. Before preparing for a career in the courtroom, she was busy developing her music career and scoring soundtracks for Netflix. But the most important part of the story isn’t the career pivot; it’s Christa’s commitment to public service. In this episode of the Counseller’s Corner, Christa shares how Baylor Law’s Career Development Fellowship made it possible for her to pursue a pivotal (and unpaid) internship with the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office; an experience that launched her future as a prosecutor. It’s a candid look at how one opportunity, backed by the right support, can change everything, and why investing in students who want to serve matters more than ever.

What does it really take to make the most of law school? In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller has a candid, engaging conversation with Baylor Law student Sheldon Furqueron, navigating law school with perseverance and purpose. They unpack what it’s really like to live and study in Waco, reflect on time spent at Baylor Law School’s Academy of the Advocate in St Andrews, Scotland, and share the habits that quietly drive success. This episode will speak to anyone considering law school or currently navigating it, with honest insights and stories that show how to keep moving forward when opportunities feel just out of reach.

After 20 years in the U.S. Army, second-year Baylor Law student Casey Stege has transitioned from the armed forces to studying case law and establishing community ties. In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Casey discusses how his service influences his journey—from working at a small-town newspaper to joining the Army, and now attending Baylor Law. He explains his desire to become a trusted community leader and shares insights on the unique perspective veterans bring to the classroom. He also shares his experience at Baylor Law School’s Academy of the Advocate in St Andrews, Scotland, advocating for fellow service members on Capitol Hill, and maintaining balance through sports and a good cup of coffee. This conversation offers candid insights into leadership, humility, and building a purposeful life after leaving military service.

Elexis shares how, now as an involved student, she contributes to BPILS, including their work to completely transform the Law Center for Adoption Day, and how fostering a dog during finals served as an excellent stress reliever. Throughout her journey, she reflects on lessons from dance and living abroad and highlights her family’s connection to one of Dean Counseller’s favorite films.

From the tennis courts of San Antonio to the courtroom in Practice Court, third-year student Charli Delmonico brings a competitor’s mindset to Baylor Law School. As the current Editor-in-Chief of the Baylor Law Review and having recently finished Big Trial, she reflects on discipline, resilience, late nights drafting motions, and the moment she realized she could do more than she ever thought possible. She also credits her Practice Court partner, Emily Lentzner, for pushing her limits and making the experience even more rewarding. Dean Jeremy Counseller and Charli also explore what Law Review truly entails, why Baylor Law School’s rigorous Practice Court program is so transformative, and whether former student-athletes gain an advantage in law school. Their conversation offers an honest look at growth, perseverance, and the habits that equip Baylor Lawyers for success in their profession.

In this episode, first-year Baylor Law student Jonathan Winn joins Dean Jeremy Counseller to share the story of his path to law school. Jonathan reflects on his early years performing opera abroad, his work in journalism and marketing, and the experiences that eventually led him to pursue a legal education. Now a father of three, Jonathan also speaks about balancing family life with the demands of law school and how his varied professional background shapes his approach to studying law.

Jax Mahlstadt, a second-year law student, reflects on leadership, service, and the significance of saying yes at Baylor Law School. As the president of the 2L Student Bar Association and co-president of the Baylor Environmental and Natural Resource Law Society, Jax discusses embracing leadership opportunities, representing the student body, and how prioritizing involvement over a predetermined career path has influenced his law school experience.

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with seventh-quarter law student Jared Miller, a CPA who holds two master’s degrees, is a husband and a father, to talk about carving a strategic path to transactional practice. Jared shares why he left a successful accounting career with a Big Four accounting firm for law school, how Baylor Law School’s Professional Tracks, Special Distinctions, and transactional competitions prepared him for real-world dealmaking. He also emphasizes how prior professional experience can transform abstract legal concepts into concrete business realities.   And then there’s that story: Jared shares a memorable story about negotiating in an American Bar Association mergers and acquisitions competition mere hours after the birth of his daughter.   The conversation offers insight into preparation, perspective, and the realities of navigating high-stakes professional moments alongside major life events.

From the neonatal intensive care unit to Baylor Law School, third-year student Kaitlyn Charles brings a rare perspective shaped by compassion, clarity, and the hard truths she learned as a NICU nurse. In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller talks with Kaitlyn about delivering difficult news, building emotional resilience, and how telling the truth with care is a skill every profession, especially the legal profession, demands.

From teaching high school Spanish to tackling the challenges of Baylor Law, Julia Incerpi brings insight and humor to her conversation with Dean Jeremy Counseller. Together, they explore Julia’s hour-long daily commute, her balancing act as a parent and law student, and her leadership of the Hispanic American Law Student Association (HALSA), all while reflecting on the growth that comes from overcoming challenges.

This episode of Counseller’s Corner features a lively conversation between Dean Jeremy Counseller and third-year Baylor Law School student Caroline Bizarro. Caroline shares what drew her to advocacy, how her experience relaunching the Baylor Undergraduate Law Review shaped her approach to legal writing, and why grit may be the most underrated skill in the legal profession. From moot court strategy to the realities of law school resilience, this conversation is a thoughtful examination of what it takes to grow from an eager 1L to a confident future lawyer.

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller talks with 2L Kenadie Wilde, a Baylor undergrad, Baylor2Baylor scholar, and student leader, about her journey from overcoming challenges to spearheading initiatives. Kenadie shares insights on launching Baylor Law’s Real Estate & Construction Organization, leading the Women’s Legal Society, and creating meaningful connections that strengthen both the law school and the Waco community. 

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with Baylor Law School student Dylan Mayne, whose summer took him from the Gulf Coast to the heart of Africa. Dylan shares how his Baylor Law Externship in Zambia with the nonprofit Undikumbukire Project Zambia gave him firsthand insight into the country’s justice system and the challenges faced by juveniles without access to public defenders. From visiting prison and mobile courts to witnessing the power of compassion in action, Dylan reflects on how the experience deepened his passion for public service and law.

Baylor Law School student Drew Calvert joins Dean Jeremy Counseller to talk about his road to law school and his unforgettable summer at Baylor Law School’s Academy of the Advocate at St Andrews, Scotland. Drew shares how this immersive international experience with world-class mentoring sharpened his advocacy skills and why it is one of the most rewarding opportunities available to law students nationwide.

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller speaks with first-year Baylor Law student Austin Lalomia about his path from Georgia to Baylor Law School, his passion for prosecution and public service, and how comic books inspired his commitment to justice. Austin also shares insights on leading the Student Wellness Organization and his experience studying abroad in Spain. The conversation ranges from fajitas-for-breakfast to the responsibilities of a lawyer—and even dips into lightning-round favorites like board games, road trips, and Italian food.

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller talks with 1L Hope Arredondo, whose dream of becoming a lawyer began at age ten and never let go. Hope shares her passion for prosecution and public service, her vision of being a “friendly neighborhood Spider-Man” kind of lawyer, and how her journey led her to Baylor Law School. Her story is focused, driven, and sure to inspire.

Counseller’s Corner – Episode 14: In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with 1L Justin Paley, a former tech recruiter with advanced degrees in religious studies, and the host of the Thinking Biblically and Beyond podcast. Justin opens up about his unconventional path to Baylor Law School, the intellectual itch that law school scratches, and the unexpected parallels between theology, podcasting, and legal reasoning. They cover everything from the historical roots of law to the future of AI in legal practice… with a lightning round that reveals Justin’s ice cream allegiance and dream travel destination. Justin’s journey to law school demonstrates that no experience is wasted. Even the most unexpected backgrounds can lay the groundwork for a meaningful legal career.

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller speaks with third-year Baylor Law School student Elsa Tovar Morin about her journey to law school as a paralegal and single mother. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community support and the mindset that has helped her thrive both academically and personally. Elsa shares her reasons for choosing Baylor, the lessons she has learned along the way, and the value she places on presence, gratitude, and service. The conversation closes with a lighthearted moment as Elsa and Dean Counseller bond over their shared enjoyment of video games—and the surprising life lessons they’ve found in unexpected places.

Before he was briefing cases, Jerry Attaway was breaking down the Bill of Rights for eighth graders. In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller talks with Jerry—now in his second year at Baylor Law School—about his bold pivot from public school teaching to legal training and the surprising ways his past experiences continue to shape his law school journey and beyond.   The conversation ranges from the deeply personal to the laugh-out-loud funny. Jerry shares what it’s like to be a first-generation college graduate wrestling with imposter syndrome, how summer starters at Baylor form tight-knit bonds, and why construction law (yes, construction law) unexpectedly sparked his passion. Along the way, he and Dean Counseller swap thoughts on helping pre-law students find their voice, nerdy study snacks, llama ownership, and the myth of the dome light felony.   Jerry also turns the tables to ask Dean Counseller some questions, leading to reflections on truck stops, long-haul dreams, and the surprisingly profound advice Dean Counseller received during his own judicial clerkship.

In this episode of The Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller talks with second-year law student Lauren Monroe, whose path to Baylor Law School was shaped by unwavering faith, resilience, and a delayed admission that became a blessing in disguise. Lauren shares how she discovered her passion for advocacy, took on leadership through the Student Bar Association, and followed a God-given calling to serve survivors of human trafficking. From the heartbreak of waitlists to the courtroom thrill of moot court, Lauren’s story is one of purpose, perseverance, and the power of saying “yes” to the unexpected.

From writing code to briefing legal cases, 2L Austin Lau made a bold pivot from software engineering to studying law at Baylor Law School—and he hasn’t looked back. In this episode, he shares what pulled him away from tech, how his Baylor Lawyer dad helped ease the transition, and why he’s so inspired by intellectual property law’s blend of creativity, independence, and constant innovation. Austin also talks about his go-to coffee order in Waco, the artists he’d book for Baylor’s new concert venues, and what it’s really like trading corporate life for the pressure of law school cold calls.

EPISODE 9. In this episode, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with standout Baylor Law School 3L Claire Zurovec as she reflects on her journey through law school — from conquering Practice Court with confidence to thriving in the world of corporate and securities law. They cover everything: which electives helped shape her career path, why transactional competitions matter, and how friendships and the Baylor Law School community leave a lasting mark. Plus, lightning-round fun reveals Claire’s go-to Waco hangouts, comfort food fixes, and which Jane Austen heroine she’d trade places with for a day. Whether you’re a prospective law student, a curious alum, or just someone who loves hearing how passion and preparation meet opportunity, this episode delivers insights and inspiration with heart.

Counseller’s Corner – Episode 8: In this episode, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with Garrett Welch, a 3L with a love for contract clauses and competitive flag football. Garrett shares how his background in finance and business led him to the transactional side of the law, why tax law is (surprisingly) fun, and how Baylor’s competition teams helped him bridge theory and practice. They also talk studying strategies, intramural sports, and Garrett’s post-grad plans in Houston. It’s a conversation about finding your lane—and running it like it’s 4th and goal.

1L Tochi Okoli joins Dean Jeremy Counseller to share her unconventional journey from London to Baylor Law School, including the emotional weight of working on a death penalty case, and why criminal law still calls to her despite everything she’s seen. From analyzing bodycam footage to breaking out of boarding school, Tochi shares a vibrant, deeply human story about resilience, purpose, and a little bit of suya. Whether you're in law school, thinking about it, or just love a good origin story, this episode will leave you inspired — and maybe craving some jollof rice.

COUNSELLER’S CORNER - EPISODE 6: Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with aspiring JAG officer and dedicated volunteer at the Baylor Law School Veterans Clinic, 2L Tom Malaspina. Together, they dive into the heart of legal practice—service—and walk through Baylor Law School students’ incredible work helping Central Texas veterans facing legal challenges—from estate planning to consumer protection. Plus, they spotlight Baylor’s renowned mock trial and advocacy program and what it takes to make the team. 

COUNSELLER'S CORNER - Episode 5:  Baylor Law School graduate Christian Parker shares his bold decision to pursue a music career in Nashville while keeping his legal connections strong. He discusses his upcoming third album, Scales and Strings, which explores the balance between law and passion. Christian also talks about the value of a law degree, his future plans, and the support he's received from Baylor Law School and legal professionals. Plus, a fun lightning round reveals his favorite Waco restaurant, dream pet, and more. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about chasing dreams and keeping doors open!

COUNSELLER’S CORNER - EPISODE 4: How does a seasoned emergency room physician end up in law school—and not just any law school, but one with the most rigorous program designed to produce practice-ready lawyers? In this episode, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with Dr. Robby Holland, a doctor-turned-law student, who shares his journey from saving lives in the ER to seeking justice in the courtroom. He discusses the striking similarities between medicine and law, the challenges of his first year, and his passion for plaintiffs’ work. Plus, learn about his role in founding Baylor Law’s plaintiff’s organization, winning a national mock trial championship, and his transformative experience at Baylor Law School’s Academy of the Advocate in St Andrews, Scotland.

COUNSELLER’S CORNER - EPISODE 3: Dean Jeremy Counseller is joined by second-year Baylor Law student Gia Lewis, who shares her unique journey to law school, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the challenges of a rigorous academic environment. Gia discusses how her retail experience developed key interpersonal skills for legal practice and about her work revitalizing Baylor Law School’s First-Generation Law Student Organization to create a supportive community.

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller speaks with Asna Poonawalla, a second-year Baylor Law School student whose journey to law school was shaped by personal tragedy and a desire to seek justice. Asna and Dean Counseller also discuss the human side of the legal profession, Baylor Law School’s supportive environment, life in Texas, internships, and the value of meaningful mentorship.

Second-year Baylor Law School student Cagan Baldree speaks with Dean Jeremy Counseller about his journey to law school. After growing up in East Texas and playing football at Texas A&M, Cagan struggled to find a career path until he became interested in government and politics. He consequently earned a master’s degree from the Bush School at A&M, and after a brief experience in municipal administration, he decided law school would be the best course for the next stage of his career. As a married father of three, Cagan also offers insight into the challenges of balancing family responsibilities with the rigorous demands of law school.