University of Toronto Faculty of Law JD graduate Lilly Gates obtained a BA in Arts and Science from McGill University's Interfaculty program in environment.
Why law?
"I’ve always had a passion for public speaking, so I knew I wanted a career where I could use my voice to make change," says Gates. "At the same time, taking courses in the faculties of environment and Indigenous studies at McGill caused me to reflect and think critically about how I could best tackle some of Canada’s greatest problems. Studying law seemed like a natural choice for me combining my love of oral advocacy with my desire to create social change."
Gates reflects on her time at the Faculty:
What inspired you to choose U of T Law?
As a hands-on learner, I was excited by the numerous clinical opportunities U of T Law had to offer. I definitely took advantage of them! I was lucky enough to participate in both the Innocence Canada and Aboriginal Legal Services externships, the Asper Centre working group program and Downtown Legal Services throughout my three years.
Another consideration was location. Toronto promised not only incredible employment prospects but was also such a fun place to explore in my down time. I absolutely loved going to school in this vibrant city.
What are some of the extra- or co-curriculars you were involved in at the Law school?
I was heavily involved in mooting at U of T Law. In my second year, I won first place in the Frank W. Callaghan Memorial Moot and went on to organize this moot in my third year. I was also a member of the Moot Court Committee, which is responsible for running moot tryouts, planning 1L mooting experiences and organizing the Grant Moot. Lastly, I was one of two students representing U of T at both the Arnup Cup and the Sopinka Cup, where I competed against law schools from across Canada in criminal law mock trials.
One of my favourite experiences was organizing the Promise Auction, an annual fundraiser for Indigenous organizations in Ontario. During my three years of involvement with the Auction, we raised almost $10,000 for organizations doing essential work in our community.
U of T News: U of T law school promise auction raises money for Indigenous causes
What are your next steps upon graduation?
I’m excited to be articling at Crown Law Office – Criminal this year, which is the Crown office that handles all of the indictable appeals in Ontario.
What will you remember most about your time at U of T Law?
My most transformative experience of law school occurred during my first week of 1L. I had the opportunity to visit Neyaashiinigmiing (Cape Crocker Unceded Reserve) with my peers, where I spent a weekend connecting to the land, learning about Anishinaabe laws from knowledge holders and participating in ceremony. I’ve continued to reflect on these teachings and experiences throughout law school, especially during the pandemic.
Thanks to the Indigenous Initiatives Office, I was also able to attend so many incredible events at the law school, including the blanket exercise, the IIO speaker series, and several teach-ins. I am grateful to have learned about the Seven Grandfather Teachings, which are truly essential for all lawyers to keep in mind as they practice law. I have made a promise to myself to incorporate wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility, and truth into my practice every day.
Learning from the perspectives and experiences of peers: #UofTGrad21 Hannah Johnson
University of Toronto Faculty of Law JD graduate Hannah Johnson studied economics at the University of British Columbia before making her way to Toronto.
"I have learned so much just from listening to the perspectives and experiences of my peers," says "The people you meet in law school are some of the smartest people you will ever have to privilege to know."
What inspired you to choose U of T Law?
I chose U of T Law because of the doors that this degree opens and the reputation that U of T had for being a leader in the academic and legal communities. I look forward to the day that the administration appropriately responds to the CAUT censure and returns to the principles that drew me here.
What are some of the extra- or co-curriculars you were involved in at the Law school?
I loved working with Amnesty International’s Digital Verification Corps, which would not be possible without the International Human Rights Program. I also really enjoyed playing intramural soccer with the women’s team (2020 Champions!) and as co-captain of the co-ed soccer team. Go Law!
What are your next steps upon graduation?
Heading home to my family in British Columbia for some much-needed time in the mountains before I article with Goodmans LLP.
What will you remember most about your time at U of T Law?
I will remember that as member of the U of T community, I have an opportunity to use the knowledge and power I have gained to speak out about injustices. I will remember that academic freedom is something that needs to be constantly fought for.
A future career dedicated to public interest: #UofTGrad21 Kristen Kephalas
University of Toronto Faculty of Law JD graduate Kristen Kephalas studied history and art history at McGill University prior to her studies at U of T Law.
"I decided to study law because I wanted the skills to build a career dedicated to the public interest," says Kephalas. "The law remains one of the best avenues to drive social change. I wanted to be a part of a profession that strives to make our communities more inclusive and just for all, says Kephalas.
Here she reflects on her time at the Faculty:
What inspired you to choose U of T Law?
Besides Toronto being my hometown, I was drawn by the dual degree offerings at U of T Law. I am graduating with a JD/Master of Global Affairs (MGA), which is a program that I couldn’t partake in anywhere else.
What are some of the extra- or co-curriculars you were involved in at the Law school?
During law school, I was involved in the International Human Rights Program as a summer fellow at the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Bangkok, Thailand and as a student in the clinic program. Through Pro Bono Students Canada, I was a volunteer researcher for the Canadian Civil Liberties Association. I participated in the Julius Alexander Isaac Moot, winning Best Team and the Spirit of the Moot Award. I also acted as an executive and mentor on the Peer Mental Health Support Program.
My primary extra-curricular activity was acting as co-chair of the U of T Law Chapter of the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers (CARL), which grew from a club of four students to close to a dozen dedicated volunteers. Some of our main club activities include an annual immigration law networking event, conducting research for CARL National, and volunteering with a local refugee centre.
What are your next steps upon graduation?
I have accepted an offer to article with the Crown Law Office – Civil at the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General. After articling, I hope to develop a practice in civil litigation with a focus on social justice.
What will you remember most about your time at U of T Law?
I will remember the co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities the most. U of T Law provided me with the real world experiences to feel confident in entering the legal profession. Being able to work both abroad and in the community alongside my peers and esteemed practitioners was an invaluable experience.
Being part of amazing teams: #UofTGrad21 Zachary Kroll
University of Toronto Faculty of Law JD graduate Zachary Kroll completed a BComm specializing in finance and economics, as well as a minor in English prior to law school. He says he likes to read and write, and thought law was a good fit for further study.
What inspired you to choose U of T Law?
The [U of T Law] Faculty has a great mix of academics and practitioners. It’s always cool to see your profs being cited in or arguing the leading cases!
What are some of the extra- or co-curriculars you were involved in at the Law school?
Co-directed and wrote for the Law Follies, the Faculty’s annual theater production, competitive moot participation and coaching, and a few other things.
What are your next steps upon graduation?
Exploring both litigation and transactional work throughout my articling term and figuring out my professional strengths and weaknesses. Fingers crossed I can find some time for fitness and creative pursuits, too!
What will you remember most about your time at U of T Law?
I’ll definitely remember the amazing teams I was able to be a part of – both the formal ones, like my moot teams and the Follies executive, as well as the last-minute study group that hashed-out a 1L torts strategy a few hours before the exam!
"Connecting over law school news, legal debates, and of course, free food": #UofTGrad21 Claudia Shek
University of Toronto Faculty of Law JD graduate Claudia Shek studied classics and political science at McGill University before she was drawn to U of T Law for its reputation and breadth of academic and professional opportunities available through the law school.
"Law seemed like a career where I could put my personal and professional strengths to good use," says Shek. "Growing up as a third culture kid required keen observational skills and a healthy dose of perspective, while my undergraduate degree taught me how to combine logical reasoning and effective storytelling."
What are some of the extra- or co-curriculars you were involved in at the Law school?
Throughout my time at law school, I was on the production team for Law Follies, the annual student comedy revue, and co-directed the show in 3L. I was also a student editor for Ultra Vires newspaper and the Critical Analysis of Law Journal.
Beyond the walls of Jackman Law, I worked part-time and in my summers at Community Legal Education Ontario, CLEO, on a project developing online interactive legal self-help tools. This provided an invaluable introduction on how to think about — and implement — access to justice as more than just a buzzword.
What are your next steps upon graduation?
I will be articling with the Ministry of the Attorney General, Justice Policy Branch.
What will you remember most about your time at U of T Law?
For me, the Dean’s pre-pandemic monthly breakfasts (formerly known as “Yak’s Snacks”) came to reflect the collegiality, enthusiasm, and good humour of the U of T Law community. There is nothing quite like the sight of all your peers and professors in the atrium on a Wednesday morning connecting over law school news, legal debates, and of course, free food.
