The Northern Illinois University College of Law welcomed the Class of 2023 with a two-day virtual orientation on August 13-14. The new class of 125 first-year students were excited to begin their law school journey. The members of this year’s class – composed of diverse ages, races and walks of life -represent 67 different colleges and universities, 35 different undergraduate majors, 5 master’s degrees, and 9 different languages spoken. There was also a 3% increase in the number of entering students than last year, making this among one of the larger first-year classes in recent history.
As part of their virtual sessions, the students were able to experience some of the traditional elements of orientation including remarks by Dean Hill, faculty and staff introductions, and a special message from Illinois Supreme Court Justice P. Scott Neville Jr. Justice Neville discussed the principles of ethical conduct, leadership, and service before he administered the “Oath of Professionalism,” in which the students committed themselves to upholding the highest standards and ideals of the legal profession.
Over the course of the two days, the first-year students were presented with vital information to aid in their law school success over the next three years. They received some great advice from alumni; took part in a mock class; participated in a session on diversity, equity; and inclusion and had a virtual meet and greet with members of the Student Bar Association.
