Chicago-Kent College of Law Viewbook - (Page 17) On Public Service Maura Coleman, first-year student Before law school, Maura Coleman worked for three years as manager of a tutoring center. In her first year at Chicago-Kent, she participated in one of 58 pro bono programs to which students contributed 2,770 hours of public service. She plans to earn a certificate in public interest law and pursue a career in education law. She’s particularly interested in shaping education policy. I promised myself not to over-commit in my first year, but I did do one community service project, tutoring returning felons who were working on their GEDs. The students were polite and respectful— possibly the most eager students I’ve ever seen. It was incredibly rewarding. I’m looking into doing it again in the summer. The law school schedule is rigorous and requires time management, but it’s possible to make time for your passions. I play the French horn with the Chicago Bar Association Symphony Orchestra—we rehearse only two hours a week, so it doesn’t detract from my studies. If you have a gift or skill that’s beneficial to the community, why not share it? I’ve played music at nursing homes and also done a lot of work with kids. Public service is the easiest way to have an impact on someone’s life. Plus it makes you feel good. Who’s Who 16 | 17
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