The Wake Forest Lawyer
The Wake Forest Lawyer is the embodiment of a successful lawyer. This framework comprises the characteristics, traits, and behaviors that we believe are crucial to leading with integrity, purpose, and determination. When you graduate from Wake Forest Law, you’re not just a lawyer who went to Wake Forest; you’re a Wake Forest Lawyer.
The Wake Forest Lawyer Defined
The Wake Forest Lawyer is grounded and mindful. The Wake Forest Lawyer is a purpose-driven professional with a high level of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. The Wake Forest Lawyer is confident in what they know, curious and engaged in learning, and resilient in the face of challenges. The Wake Forest Lawyer regularly practices self-reflection and can identify their strengths, limitations, and patterns of behavior. The Wake Forest Lawyer has a clear sense of direction and is solution-oriented, nimble, and adaptable.
The Wake Forest Lawyer is engaged and accountable. The Wake Forest Lawyer is driven to succeed with integrity. Committed to excellence, the Wake Forest Lawyer is resourceful and solves problems with determination and creativity. The Wake Forest Lawyer takes ownership of their progress, striving to respond effectively to new challenges. The Wake Forest Lawyer acknowledges both successes and mistakes with maturity and flexibility.
The Wake Forest Lawyer connects and contributes. Committed to building community, the Wake Forest Lawyer actively nurtures supportive relationships with peers, colleagues, staff, and faculty. Anchored in civility, the Wake Forest Lawyer embraces differences, values inclusivity, and approaches conversations with respect and understanding. A core value of the Wake Forest Lawyer is their commitment to making a positive impact. The Wake Forest Lawyer personifies Pro Humanitate by intentionally seeking opportunities to contribute to the greater good.
Our Approach
Developing the Wake Forest Lawyer requires an intentional approach that begins on the first day of orientation and continues throughout the law school experience. Through thoughtfully-designed programming, training, and resources that emphasize the defined traits and qualities, faculty and staff help students construct a strong foundation of integrity, competence, and character that provides the basis for a successful legal career and a flourishing life.
Students develop the habits and behaviors that embody the Wake Forest Lawyer, including:
- Practicing self-awareness, reflection, and purposeful decision-making
- Approaching learning with curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement
- Taking ownership of their academic and professional responsibilities with integrity and accountability
- Solving problems proactively through initiative, resourcefulness, and sound judgment
- Building supportive relationships and contributing to an inclusive, respectful community
- Collaborating with classmates, faculty, staff, and the broader community in the spirit of Pro Humanitate
- Balancing academic excellence with personal wellbeing and resilience
Becoming the Wake Forest Lawyer: A Professional Identity Formation Series
Law 1.0 – Keys to Success
The first week of law school for incoming students—Foundations Week—sets the stage for student success. As one component of orientation, students are introduced to the Wake Forest Lawyer framework and begin to build relevant competencies through engagement with classmates, team-building, leadership activities, and community service opportunities.
Law 1.5 – The Mid-Year Reset
Recognizing the pivotal moment between the fall and spring semesters of the first year, this part of the series encourages students to reflect on their academic and personal growth while intentionally preparing for the challenges ahead. Through self-assessment, goal setting, and academic planning, students strengthen their learning strategies, revisit the values of the Wake Forest Lawyer, and establish a strategy for continued success throughout law school and into the legal profession.
Law 2.0 – Charting Your Course
Marking the transition from the structured first year of law school to a more self-directed academic and professional experience, this part of the series empowers students to take ownership of their legal education and professional identity. Through reflection on their summer experiences, intentional academic and career planning, and guidance on licensure and graduation requirements, students develop a purposeful plan for the remainder of law school and beyond.
Law 3.0 – Bridging to Practice
The third year of law school begins the transition from student to early-career professional. This final program in the series equips students to finish strong and prepare for the responsibilities of legal practice. Students develop a plan for completing their graduation requirements, navigating the job market and bar admission process, and continuing to embody the values of the Wake Forest Lawyer as they enter the profession.