Student Life

Ranked the 15th most ethnically diverse law school in the nation, USF comprises students who represent a range of national, religious, ethnic, and educational backgrounds.

Even as they challenge one another with varying points of view, our students are supportive of each other as they work together toward the common goal of mastering their legal studies.

The approximately 250 juris doctor students in a typical entering class come from throughout the United States and abroad, with bachelor's and often advanced degrees from hundreds of the finest colleges and universities. Our Master of Laws programs bring non-U.S. lawyers to the law school each year, enhancing the global perspective that is central to a USF education. Together the student body represents an almost limitless spectrum of academic, occupational, and personal interests and experiences.

Much of a USF law student's education takes place outside the classroom. Students expand their scholarly interests by writing, editing, and publishing several law journals. Opportunities to hone advocacy and leadership skills abound. Students participate in the annual Advocate of the Year Competition and join teams representing the law school in national and international moot court or trial advocacy competitions.

The law school also sponsors frequent panels, guest speakers, and special programs that provide opportunities for students to network with faculty, alumni, members of the bench and the bar, and visiting dignitaries. These events include monthly Justice Forums, symposia, the Creative Justice Art Show, and the McCarthy Institute Distinguished Lecture Series. In addition, service opportunities are offered through the Law in Motion Service Program, which connects USF law students, faculty, and staff with local community organizations.

All students attending the law school are members of the Student Bar Association (SBA), which sponsors social and cultural activities and gives students a voice in school policy. The SBA also funds and oversees student organizations, such as the American Trial Lawyers Association, Environmental Law Association, Health Law Society, Intellectual Property and Cyberspace Law Association, Korean American Law Students Association, National Lawyers Guild, Pride Law Association, and Women's Law Association.