Here is my daughter, Elizabeth Beaty, who finishes her last final at Southwestern Law School on Monday and then starts a 2-month externship before graduating on May 12, 2013. This sweet middle girl of mine is about to complete law school in an accelerated two year program, which is called SCALE. Southwestern has one of the few programs in the country of this kind and Liz has done very well. Hurray!
It’s a wonderful experience to see your kids push hard and realize their dreams. Completing law school is one of those dreams for Liz, and this JD is just two years is quite an accomplishment. Liz already has a Master’s in Anthropology and a certificate in Accountancy and has worked at one of the “Big Four” accounting firms. So, clearly, she is one of those people who works hard and aims her sights high. The fact that she loves to laugh and is a decent person just adds to that glorious mix that makes her who she is.
Yes, mother is proud.
Yesterday, Liz did something else that demonstrates another aspect of who she is: she went for an interview with the Air Force to be considered as an officer in their JAG program.
Becoming a JAG officer is highly competitive – they take fewer than 8% of their applicants. They offer a wonderful opportunity for these young lawyers, giving them the chance to gain experience over the entire breadth of the legal field. Also, they put them straight to work in the courtroom so they get lots of trial experience. They also offer adventure – off to different parts of the United States and the world. Liz said she thought her interview went well yesterday, but, she was quick to add that the competition is so stiff that she has no idea how well she will fare in the larger pool of applicants. In this era of many new lawyers out looking for work, vying for those few coveted positions is no doubt tougher than ever. Still, I suspect Liz did a fine job. And if not this job, then another will come. The goal is always to find that right “match.”
I must admit that when Liz first broached the idea of the military to me, I didn’t jump right on board. I, after all, am a mother first, and any job that might place my child anywhere near harm’s way instantly brings up my protective instinct. And, believe it of not, JAG officers are deployed often in combat zones to offer war reparations to those who experience loss at the hands of the Americans. I didn’t know that until a few weeks back, but I do now. So, no, I didn’t say, “Of course, this sounds like a grand idea.” However, after hearing of all the legal experience Liz would gain and seeing her excitement at the possibility of adventure and in being a part of something bigger than herself…well…then I began to realize that sometimes it’s important to pull back the fear and replace it with trust. So, that’s where I am now. I will love and support Liz in whatever endeavor she chooses. She, after all, consistently makes fine choices.
Two more day and that’s the end of law school. Wow. Good work, sweet girl, and study hard for that last final. The end is in sight! I know the Bar looms off in the distance, but, for now, savor this victory. It’s a big one. And, yes, I am so proud.
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