Madalyn Elmquist, May 2022
Articles Editor
What did you do before you enrolled in law school, and how did you decide law school was right for you?
I went straight from college to law school. Nonetheless, for two years during college, I worked for a criminal defense and family law firm in Mankato, MN: Birkholz & Associates, LLC. This firm and my undergraduate mentor, Sara Edwards-Burger, guided and affirmed my decision to enter the legal field.
What are your goals for Volume 48?
I want to build upon the momentum from Volume 47 by publishing timely articles addressing pertinent issues (i.e., reproductive rights, racial justice, police reform, gender equality, etc.) to encourage legal discourse and societal reform.
What advice do you have for incoming Associates?
First, reach out to your team if you ever need help because you’re all going through this process together. Second, remember that you are deserving and capable of succeeding in this role.
Robert Kringler, May 2022
Articles Editor
What did you do before you enrolled in law school, and how did you decide law school was right for you?
Before entering law school I worked in legislative and electoral politics in both Minnesota and North Dakota. I worked as a legislative assistant with the Minnesota Senate DFL Caucus for three legislative sessions at the State Capitol in St Paul. I also worked as Regional Organizing Director for Tina Smith’s U.S. Senate Campaign, and as a field organizer with the Minnesota DFL Coordinated Campaign. Law school was the best option to further my career while empowering me to make a difference for those in often marginalized and forgotten communities.
What was the most rewarding part of being an Associate for Volume 47?
My time as an associate editor taught me many valuable lessons, including the importance of every small detail, and the power of perseverance even when your back is against the wall!
What advice do you have for incoming Associates?
Stick with it and roll with the punches, it will be worth it.
Kira Locke, May 2022
Articles Editor
What did you do before you enrolled in law school, and how did you decide law school was right for you?
I was a litigation paralegal prior to my time at Mitchell Hamline. I wanted more responsibility, so I ended up in law school.
What has been your favorite part of the Mitchell Hamline experience so far?
Most of my law school experience has been online due to COVID. While I missed being in-person, I also loved being able to wear sweatpants to my Zoom classes.
What advice do you have for incoming Associates?
Law review is important, but so is having a good work/life balance. Don’t be afraid to take a night off, go on a road trip, or even just take a nap. #SelfCare
Alicia Freeman, May 2022
Articles Editor
What did you do before you enrolled in law school, and how did you decide law school was right for you?
I started working at the United States Attorney’s Office (“USAO”) for the District of Minnesota while I completed my Bachelors Degree at Hamline University. My experiences at the USAO solidified my interest in pursuing law school and ignited my passion for public service.
What has been your favorite part of the Mitchell Hamline experience so far?
My favorite part of the Mitchell Hamline experience so far is undoubtedly my experiences on Law Review. I was selected for publication from the Law Review write on competition and was published in Volume 47. My experience during the editorial process was incredibly rewarding and allowed me to further develop my writing skills.