MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) — Merced College is making sure there’s a clear path to pursue a legal career.
Dean Joe Serena says the college is introducing the California LAW Pathway starting in the spring.
It’s a statewide program designed to diversify the legal field and expand opportunities for aspiring lawyers from underrepresented communities.
“Having this pathway is nice because the students have not only a location and points of contact with a deputy counselor, faculty champions, myself and others, but they’ll have this whole support system,” Serena said.
Students will receive orientations, counseling, mentorship and added experiences that will help set them up for success.
“They are going to be able to attend conferences and trainings that provide them with a lot more background. They’re also going to go on field trips to some of these law schools, so it really brings it all together for the students,” Serena said.
Students still have to pay for their normal coursework, but everything else is free of charge.
There are no specific major requirements or prerequisites.
Students in the pathway will receive a certificate of completion and priority admission to the law schools that take part.
Serena says they have the backing of faculty with law degrees, the college board president and the Merced County District Attorney, so they’re excited to see where this goes.
“Having their backing is awesome. We’re going to lean on their support, their experience and their mentorship to really help out our students,” Serena said.
The first cohort will launch next semester.
Students can fill out the interest form by clicking here.
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