Name: Sarah Halstead
Age: 24
Hometown: East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Expected graduation year: 2017
Georgia Law extracurricular activities: Street Law, Sports and Entertainment Law Society
Undergraduate university / degree(s) / year(s): The Pennsylvania State University / B.S. Science, B.S. African and African American Studies / 2013
1. What did you do before attending law school?
I came to law school straight from undergrad. That being said I worked and a variety of jobs before law school including a few years as an EMT and working at fat camp (yes, the one that was on MTV).
2. Why did you choose to attend the University of Georgia School of Law?
It was a mixture of value and environment. Georgia was definitely the best value - a high-ranking school at a state school price. I also loved the atmosphere when I visited. I wanted a law school that wasn't crazy competitive and had a sense of community, and Georgia Law fit the bill perfectly.
3. What inspired you to become a lawyer?
I don't really want to be a traditional lawyer when I graduate, but here's how I ended up in law school. I've been interested in law for quite some time. I was very involved in mock trial in high school and then got away from law in college to pursue a career in science. Toward the end of my science degree I realized it wasn't what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I had been working with some athletes at the time and saw that there was a huge need for managers and agents who really took player interests to heart rather than being concerned with money. I realized that if I combined a legal education with my knowledge of sports, I could build a career that would make me happy and make a positive difference.
4. What are your plans after graduation (if applicable)?
I see myself hanging a shingle and doing athlete representation. I know going solo is a big risk, but I think it will make me happiest in the long run.
5. Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
I see myself running my own athlete management company/agency.
6. Who is your favorite Georgia Law professor? Why?
This is a hard one because I've had some really great professors. But if I had to pick a favorite I would have to say Professor Lanier. I've taken Mediation I and II with her and it's obvious from the first day of class that she's incredibly passionate about mediating and really cares about the success of her students. She also honestly cares about feedback from students and structures the classes to meet their needs. Not to mention she's one of those people who you can go to and talk about whatever is on your mind, class related or not.
7. What are some activities/clubs/clinics you are involved in at the law school?
I'm the current president of Street Law, a program that works with underserved youth in the community to help them understand how the law applies to them and make it more understandable and relatable. I'm also involved with the Sport and Entertainment Law Society and have participated in the Mediation II clinic.
8. What do you enjoy most about law school?
The challenge. I know it sounds a bit cliche but law school always keeps me on my toes.
9. What are your hobbies?
Cooking and gardening. Even after a long day I like to make a home-cooked meal and luckily my friends don't mind being guinea pigs for my new recipes. And I always try to have a vegetable garden to going.
10. Where is your favorite place to study? Why?
My favorite is definitely the Annex of the Law Library. I know some people find the silence creepy, but I get easily distracted so it's a perfect place to buckle down and get things done. Plus the huge windows make it seem a little happier in there.
11. What are two things you always have to have with you when you study?
Sour Patch Kids and highlighters.
12. What do you like most about living in Athens?
I like how interesting the town is - there always seems to be something new to do. I've lived here for two years now and I'm still finding places and events I never knew existed.
13. What do you do to handle the stress of law school?
Working out is my favorite - I train at an MMA gym and have a heavy bag at home, so that gets out most of the stress. And I have two awesome dogs who love to cuddle and help me relax.