Welcome from Student Bar Association President Alex Aurisch

It is my great privilege to congratulate you on your decision to join the Class of 2016 at the University of Virginia School of Law. The Student Bar Association (SBA) is the student government of the Law School, entrusted with improving the law school experience for all students. On behalf of the SBA, I would like to briefly introduce you to our school and give you a small glimpse into all you have to look forward to in a few short months.

One of the most distinctive characteristics of Virginia Law is the strong sense of community that infuses everything we do. I know that in the months leading up to law school, I spent a great deal of time wondering whether I would be able to manage the fabled cutthroat nature of law school.  Similarly, I dreaded the prospect of spending countless weekends locked up in the library just trying to keep up with my classes. Finally, I grew worried that the competitive nature of law school would lead to a hostile atmosphere of students trying to outshine one another

I quickly realized that these fearful scenarios could not be further from the truth when it comes to the reality of life at Virginia. Students here learn cooperatively by discussing their thoughts and perspectives in and away from the classroom. Furthermore, our students are always willing to share notes with their classmates who may have missed a lecture. Charlottesville is a wonderful place to call home for three years, and our Law School community sincerely encourages its students to enjoy their time here. I think you will find the atmosphere to be both welcoming and encouraging as you begin the path to becoming a lawyer.

UVA Law students encompass a wide range of diverse backgrounds and are extremely driven and involved. We have around 70 student organizations that sponsor activities speakers, symposia and gatherings. If you have an interest, a passion, or an idea for an organization, there is a good chance that it exists here at the Law School. If it does not, you will find classmates who will be eager to bring it into existence with you. During your three years here, you will meet incredible people who share your interests and passions, and may very well become some of your closest, lifelong friends.

At Virginia Law, you will have the opportunity to take classes from some of the finest legal scholars in the country. Equally important, you will have countless opportunities to interact with these professors outside of class. You will go out to lunch with them, talk to them in the hallways and their offices, and be invited to their homes for dinner, wine-tastings and poker games.

I could go on and on describing the virtues of Virginia Law but I will resist such temptations and allow you to arrive at your own conclusions next fall. You have no idea how much you have to look forward to. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at sbapresident@virginia.edu

Sincerely,
Alex Aurisch
President, Student Bar Association