Meet UF Law Student: Mercy Guillot (JD 17)

Hometown: Miami, Florida

Undergraduate Institution and Degree Program: Florida International University, Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Political Science; Minor in Criminal Justice; Certificate in Latin American Studies.

Law School Involvement: Chair for Education and Training of the Florida Moot Court Team; Chair for Advocacy of the American Bar Association Law Student Section Chapter at UF Law; Competitor for the International Commercial Arbitration Moot (ICAM) Team; Trial Team Member of Phi Alpha Delta; Latino Law Student Association Member, Cuban American Bar Association Member; Teaching Assistant for Legal Writing and Appellate Advocacy.

 Why You Chose UF Law: UF Law was my number one option because it is undoubtedly the best law school in the state. UF Law’s huge network of 21,000+ alumni is what drew me to the school. As a law school applicant, I knew that a law school with a powerful alumni network would certainly help with job prospects. Now, as a UF Law student, I have seen that the Gator Nation really is much more than a slogan. I have met so many UF Law graduates who are willing to recruit, mentor, and help out fellow Gators whenever possible. After seeing the power of the Gator Nation firsthand, it did not surprise me that UF Law is currently ranked as the number one law school for networking opportunities.

Most Valuable Aspect of UF Law: The most valuable aspect of UF Law is the people. There is truly a strong sense of community in the law school, and a lot of it has to do with the fact that the students are generally very easy-going and helpful. All of my professors have been absolutely great as well – they truly care about their students and really want students to visit them during office hours. The staff is also always eager to help. Early on this semester, I walked into the Student Affairs Office to collect signatures for a petition to re-elect a judge I worked with last summer, and all the staff members were so excited to help me. I have also received invaluable career advice from the Career Services Office. If you are willing to put yourself out there and ask for help, the UF Law community is willing to respond.

 Why Someone Should Consider UF Law: The law school, in addition to having great people and a great sense of community, has so many opportunities for students to get involved. From expert-led clinics to more than 20 organizations, there is something for everyone. In my first semester in law school, I knew that I wanted to get involved and I really wanted to join the Florida Moot Court Team. After making the team, I had the opportunity to deliver an oral argument before justices of the Florida Supreme Court this semester, and it was the best experience I have had in law school so far. I am also excited that U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas will teach a course in our school next semester. UF Law provides its students with incredible opportunities.

 Tips for Incoming Law Students:

• Study hard, but do not spend every moment trying to get ahead. Socialize and get to know your classmates.
• Whenever you learn something in class, think about how you can apply that to an exam question. Before taking a final exam, be sure to at least take an old final exam, preferably from the same professor.
• Get to know your professors and visit them during office hours.
• Join an extracurricular activity – it is so great to be part of a team atmosphere.

 Future Plans: Upon graduation, I hope to return to my hometown of Miami with a great job!