Becky Erickson, May 2022
Managing Editor
What did you do before you enrolled in law school, and how did you decide law school was right for you?
I worked in the environmental realm before starting law school, primarily focused on environmental policy. I started thinking about law school while working for a legislative council and realized my favorite part of the job was analyzing legal questions. I finally decided law school was right for me after months of conversations with my boss and mentors.
What are your goals for Volume 48?
My main goal as a Managing Editor is to aid in Associate growth and development for three reasons. First, serving on Law Review is a lot of work, but it is my hope that we can provide each Associate with a rewarding experience by investing in their growth and development. Second, Associates play a critical role in our editorial process and our success depends on them. Third, I want to set Volume 49 up for success by cultivating interest in serving as future Board members in a capacity well-suited with their skill set.
What advice do you have for incoming Associates?
Do not wait until the last minute to start reviewing. Ask questions when you have them. And remember, we’re on the same team so help each other out when you’re able, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Ben Larson, Jan. 2023
Managing Editor
What did you do before you enrolled in law school, and how did you decide law school was right for you?
I graduated from the University of Minnesota and decided to go to law school after having an experience during a year of school in New York that forced me to confront the privileges I have had in my life. After that I decided I wanted to do something constructive with the privileges I have had and be of service to society. That led me to law school.
What was the most rewarding part of being an Associate for Volume 47?
The most rewarding part of being an associate for Volume 47 was the knowledge that I was contributing to a larger conversation of legal issues, some of which I didn’t even recognize before working on the articles. Additionally, and selfishly, I think the personal development I saw in my writing and editing from working on those articles was also very rewarding.
What advice do you have for incoming Associates?
Very simply, put in the work. Thoroughly check the sources for the article, read and understand the applicable citation rules, communicate your thoughts and ideas, and ask questions when necessary. The process takes time and is difficult at the beginning but as you progress it will get easier, and you will notice your own development and the applicability of the knowledge you build through that process. That being said, trust your judgement at the same time. While that judgement may not always be correct, I know mine wasn’t many times as an associate, mistakes are the best way to learn through this process in my opinion and you shouldn’t be afraid to make them.
Maria Nowak, May 2022
Managing Editor
What did you do before you enrolled in law school, and how did you decide law school was right for you?
Before law school I did my undergraduate at the College of Saint Scholastica in Duluth MN. There, I majored in Psychology and minored in American Sign Language and Deaf Culture Studies. I graduated in 3.5 years, so I had about 6 months off in between college and law school. Outside of school I played volleyball in high school, rugby in college, and I was involved in the Earth Action Club, ASL & Deaf Culture Club, and student senate.
What has been your favorite part of the Mitchell Hamline experience so far?
My favorite Mitchell Hamline experience volunteering with the criminal expungement clinic. Although this experience was limited (due to the COVID-19 pandemic), it was such a unique experience and allowed me to give back to my community.
What advice do you have for incoming Associates?
Here is my advice: don’t leave your work until the last minute, ask questions, and use each other as resources.
Rudy Porter, May 2022
Managing Editor
What did you do before you enrolled in law school, and how did you decide law school was right for you?
I worked in banking for a while and then as a paralegal.
What was the most rewarding part of being an Associate for Volume 47?
The amount of teamwork demonstrated during the editing process. Everyone worked together to get the job done.
What advice do you have for incoming Associates?
Try to get to know the other members of your team and ask questions. Nobody’s going to be offended that you’re curious.