Law Students' Blog

Good luck, everybody

2005-12-04T16:09:00.000-08:00

Best of Luck with Finals!

2005-12-03T19:41:00.000-08:00

Don't know if anyone even reads this anymore, but just wanted to say Good Luck to everyone!

We've come a long way since we started this Blog in August and now it's time to show what we have learned along the way.

Happy Finals and an even Happier Semester Break!!!

Section A

2005-10-29T22:47:00.000-07:00

You know, last I heard, Section A won...

Perhaps Sections B and D counted their chicks before they hatched, or weighed their candy before pulling the apples from the trash cans.

All in all, I’m glad the Boo Bash went well and the comments by Sister Grace at the end hit that home. I didn’t participate all that much, but I’m glad still the same.

As for which section rules… well… if you aren’t in Section A, you’re just out of luck.

SECTION D RULES

2005-10-25T06:21:00.000-07:00

Sorry Sections A, B & C, but by the end of this week, all the sections will have to agree that SECTION D RULES THE SCHOOL!

Section B is the Best!!!

2005-10-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

Section B - Stands for Best, Better than You, and Bitchin'

Mamas, don't let your babies grow up to be Lawyers. Don't let them write briefs, or argue in court. Let them be Doctors, and feasors of Tort.
Andrew Froelich, St. Mary's Law School 1L. Copyright 2005. All Rights Reserved. Credit must follow quote if used.

2005-09-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

any 2ls or 3ls up for it, a group of us 1ls are willing to pay good money for good outlines from the following classes:

torts w rice
contracts w cochran
property w lytton
property w mather

e-mail us
ushdbf7@yahoo.com

Question from a Tech law student

2005-09-29T13:26:00.000-07:00

I got a message from a student at Tech (NO idea how he got my name/Yahoo ID). He said they are using torts books written by one of our professors, Vincent Johnson--Studies in American Tort Law, and Mastering Torts. Prof. Johnson is visiting at Notre Dame this year and I told him I'm only 1L so I don't know anything about him. Apparently his class is freaking out about this new book, and he asked me to see if I could find an outline from a class that used this book that someone would be willing to share. I told him I'd see what I could do. So, if you've had Prof. Johnson, or had a class that used his book and would be willing to share your outline with some worried Tech students, please let me know. Reply to this post or email me at themistycat@hotmail.com.

Thanks!
Misty

Message from President of school....

2005-09-22T18:17:00.000-07:00

"In preparation for Hurricane Rita that is scheduled to hit the Texas Gulf Coast late Friday night and Saturday, the following decisions have been made:

CAMPUS CLOSING

The University will close for the weekend, beginning at 6 p.m., Friday, Sept. 23. This includes all facilities, except for residence halls. Once the storm has passed and an assessment of the campus is completed, the University could resume operations as soon as Sunday morning, Sept. 25....

All computer services, including Blackboard, will shut down Friday at 6 p.m."

Delta Theta Phi - FREE FOOD!!!

2005-09-20T12:23:00.000-07:00

DELTA THETA PHI

General Meeting
Wednesday, September 21
4:30pm in the Law Administration building, Atrium

* Free pizza and beverages! *

Topics
New members
Upcoming events

Renovating the court room....

2005-09-18T14:28:00.000-07:00

Did ya'll hear? The law school's court room is getting renovated, thanks to some fund-raising and a "technology grant" from the SBC foundation. Looks like it's getting all new high-tech equipment and plasma screens. And just in time for the '06/'07 school year. Cool stuff! Congrats to the Dean and everyone who made this happen. Check out the story here.

Free Food?

2005-09-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

Ok, it's been a week. Time for a new post.

I know 1L's are largely driven by their stomachs so I have not one, but *two* opportunities for free food!

On Thursday, September 15, PMBR will be giving out free breakfast tacos at our table in the Law Classroom Building. We'll be set up by 8a, and stay as long as the food lasts. Come by and get breakfast and learn about PMBR, too.

On the same day, at lunch, the Employment and Labor Law Association (fondly known as ELLA) will be having our first meeting of the year in the Atrium. We'll have pizza and drinks and we'll start at 11a.

See ya'll there!

LAW SCHOOL HURRICANE URGENT RELIEF DRIVE

2005-09-07T12:25:00.000-07:00

Please visit the table set up in the law classroom building and pick up a list of items the law school is collecting for its Hurricane Katrina Urgent Relief Drive.
Some of the items include:
Blankets
Linens
Pillows
Canned Veggies
Chili
Canned meats

The drive is only happening THIS WEEK so please make sure to bring things to donate Thursday and Friday!

The items collected will be distributed to shelters in San Antonio and Houston.

Thanks for your support!

I'm so glad to see...

2005-09-06T15:51:00.000-07:00

....that Black's Law Dictionary gives us the definition of the (legal?) term shyster. "A person (esp. a lawyer) whose business affairs are unscrupulous, deceitful, or unethical."

Email: the MARIO bi-WEEKLY

2005-09-03T21:09:00.000-07:00

in htown this weekend but the river is looking good for ...
SUNDAY
charlie sullivan says it's going down on the guadalupe..."Sunday 9/4 labor day weekend JB and Stragglers and Wade Bowen atRiverroad Icehouse." there might be a st mary after party at canyon lake or on the river. for more info call: Charlie 210-***-**** or nathan cace 210-***-****

TUESDAY
TEAM 7's first game!!
please come out and support us
From Loop 410: From Loop 410, take 281 North. Exit Bitters and make a left on Bitters to the first light. Take a left at the light (Embassy Row) and follow the street to the end turning right onto Embassy Oaks. The MVP Indoor Soccer Academy is on the left next to Laser Quest.
THE ROSTER:
3L's-Zach Luce, Eddie Robinson, Andrew Hurd, Mario Cortes. Scott de la Garza
2L's-Luke Alsobrook, Nathan Leavitt, Bryan Rose, Amos Pardo?, Josh Van Maele, Andy Valenson
1L's- Nathan Perez, Aldo Salazar, Mike Denuccio

also, it's the hispanic law student association's first general meeting 11am atrium.

WEDNESDAY
survey - should we still hit oakhills? some people think hemmingways is a better place.
oakhills v. hemmingways - decision 2005
hemmingways:owned by stmary law alums - pitchers will be 5 dollars BUT who knows what wednesdays are like
oakhills: where everybody knows your name BUT pitchers have shot up from 6 bucks to 8 bucks yet the trivia prize remains at 25dollars

SATURDAY
"Nothing but a G thing Ninities Party" - before Mike Jones there was ... Dayna Jones
come celebrate a birthday at casa de Dayna, Forest and Mario. 90's jams only. barbq. Marioritas (this time for real) and beer. dust of the girbauds(fold and roll the cuff), pull out the hypercolor shirts, maybe a grunge outfit, mc hammer pants, that obnoxious express shirt with the neon X. directions can be obtained through word of mouth.

NEXT FRIDAY
Hispanic Fest (hlsa's annual party and fundraiser) - 7 to 11pm @ prof. valencia's house. tix are free for members and 10 bucks for the rest of you folks. good food, good music, good dancing ( i will offer free private salsa and merengue classes if you promise never to use the moves anywhere else.)

NOW FOR THE COMMUNITY SERVICE
MONDAY - info taken from kurtie.blogspot.com
i'll be at the astrodome this monday if anybody is in Htown ,please join me.
Harris County Citizen Corps- Astrodome shelter for disaster refugees:Persons wanting to volunteer in direct service to help the Katrina disaster victims who have arrived in Houston should go to the McNee Street parking lot just north of Reliant Stadium, between Kirby and Fannin.. (They should use the "West Entrance", so called because it is on the west side of Reliant Center). Volunteers should come to the 2nd floor of Reliant Center and identify themselves as being with Harris County Citizen Corps. About 300-500 volunteers will be needed on the scene at all times around the clock. The Houston Food Bank is needing volunteers to manage sorting, packaging and delivery of foods to various shelters. They are accepting walk-ins.
Location: 3811 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TexasPhone: (713) 223-3700\nweb site address: www.houstonfoodbank.orgBecause we are operating under emergency disaster mode, orientation will not be necessary. Please just show up at one of the following times. It is not necessary to call and schedule a volunteer shift. We truly appreciate your time and effort in helping us respond to hurricane Katrina.\nVolunteer Shifts are as follows:Monday - Labor Day – September 5th8:00 AM - 12:00 PM1:00 PM - 5:00 PMEveryone must wear close-toed shoes. Please leave your bags, purses, and cell phones locked in the trunk of your car or at home. If you are bringing a group of 5 or more, please call before coming. Individuals do not need to call in advance. At this time, you must be at least 16 years old.

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 25th
christian senior services annual fundraiser benefiting meals on wheels.
RIO CIBOLO Ranch 2 to 7pm. 20 dollars for adults and 10 dollars for kids under 13 will get you some babrbecue (between 5 to 6). silent acution, hay rides, ping, pong, billiards, carnival games, horseshoes, barge rides on the cibolo, shuffleboard, airhockey, volleyball, garden trails and more...
get tix from me"

Feb. 20004 -- 72.3% of St. Mary's Students Passed the Bar on First Attempt - Below State Average

2005-08-30T17:49:00.000-07:00

SAN ANTONIO – The percentage of St. Mary’s University School of Law students who took the Texas Bar exam for the first time in February and passed is the highest in eight years, according to the Texas Board of Law Examiners.
Some 72.73 percent of first-time test takers from St. Mary’s passed the February exam, the first of two administered annually by the board to aspiring lawyers. That rate is a few points below the overall statewide average for first-time takers of 75.59 percent, but significantly above the 50 percent of St. Mary’s students who took the exam in February 2004 and passed.
“There is definitely room for both celebration, and improvement, given these results,” said Bill Piatt, dean of the School of Law.
Only 22 St. Mary’s alumni took the exam for the first time in February, including several who graduated in years past but had never taken the exam. The number of those sitting for the February exam historically is smaller than the July exam. For instance, in July 2004, 149 St. Mary’s alumni took the exam for the first time, 79.87 percent of them passing.Additionally, the percentage of St. Mary’s students who repeated the exam in February and passed also increased this year over the previous February results. Some 58.33 percent of those repeating the exam passed, the fourth highest pass rate of all nine Texas law schools among repeat takers, exceeding the statewide average of 50.64 percent.

Vote for Allen DeBard!

2005-08-29T20:27:00.000-07:00

Vote for Allen DeBard!
And he'll tell you who Johnny Drama is...

Vote for Pedro

2005-08-29T18:05:00.000-07:00

or Ralph Perez.

Bob Schaezler for 1L Special Prosecutor

2005-08-29T17:52:00.000-07:00

Hello All:

This is just a bit of obscene self promotion as the election nears. I'm running for 1L Special Prosecutor and I respectfully ask for your vote.

I promise to promote and advance our interests while prosecuting violators of the student honor code to the full extent of the remedies set forth by the lofty standards of the Student Handbook.
It's important to note that this has never happened before, and probably won't happen during my tenure, so I believe the thrust of my efforts will be in assistance of SBA to find and secure bar tabs throughout town. I can do that.

Thank you for your consideration and support.

Bob Schaezler

1L Senator

2005-08-29T17:09:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone - my name is Kelly Smoot, a section D-er. I just wanted to let everyone know that I am running for 1L senator. I won't bore you with a long winded posting, just a short and sweet plug!! I graduated from Texas A&M, took a year off to work, and now I'm here, and looking forward to getting to know everyone better. Remember me when you vote tomorrow! Have a great week!

Running for Senator

2005-08-29T14:11:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody,

In a clever move Mo decided to leave me off the list of candidates that went around. Cunning, I know, but it will not stop my efforts to compete in this election! (I'm kidding. I love you Mo. Really.)

I am running for 1L Senator and I would really appreciate y'alls votes! I am very exited to be here, and have been on Student Council and then Student Government in both high school and in university. I really want to be involved and will help out with SBA regardless of if I'm elected.

And rememeber...

California may have Schwarzenegger...
But Saint Mary's has Schwarz...

Except my name is shorter,
and my accent MUCH easier to understand!

VOTE SCHWARZ '05!

a lotta typos and bad gramma'

2005-08-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

Dear TEAM 7 and friends,
season starts tomorrow (tuesday) for a few teams but the guy says i can sign up as late as wednesday for the men's 2 division. cost is 600 bucks total not including the ref fees.this is at the new place on bitters. games are tuesdaynights with a couple of thursday nights here and there.
www.mvpindoorsoccer.com

ideally, we'd like to have 11 players. please email me if you're in or not by tuesday. i'll have our number to divide the 600 by and then get the total to you by tuesdaynight. i will then expect a check made out to me, mario cortes. i will cash it and then pay it all in cash on wednesday. (so cash would definitely be more convenient.) i predict it will be about 60 bucks. my box is 45, but if it's cash then call me.

most of us already have shirts, but we may need to reorder...instead of figuring out what numbers we need, nathan leavitt has suggested we purchase new jerseys. i doubt we will have this issue resolved by game time so if you dont have a jersey or shirt then just bring a yellow shirt to the game and we'll write a number on it.
i'm missing some guys on this list so please spread the word. if we get enough people we may be able to start up a rec team or another division 2 team. rec team season starts in about 2 weeks.
also, we have two girls interested in coed. Dawn and Kristin (1l's). please ask your sisters, girlfriends etc if they would be interested. i think we need atleast 3 girls on the field at all times in coed. i havent looked up that info but if i can find atleast one more lady then i'll get the info.--

This is my new email address. Please update.
Mario Cortes(281) 610-4388

Monday Aug 29

2005-08-29T05:24:00.000-07:00

Campaign Day!

Let the races begin. Good luck to all the candidates. Hey, feel free to announce your candidacy here at the blog. Otherwise.... we may never know who you are!

Oh yeah....

2005-08-25T16:44:00.000-07:00

...the ghost of Johnny Drama haunts us all! Haha!

It's gonna' be hot, but.....

2005-08-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

A few of us are playing golf on Saturday at Willow Springs GC around 3:00pm. Yeah, the public course. Gotta' stay cheap, right. I called that course and the guy said they offer a special price of $22 (including green fee and cart---yeah, I ain't walkin') anytime after 2:00pm. Here is a map to the course.

Any fellow golf enthusiasts are welcome to join us. Gimme' an e-mail at paradox_in_corpus@yahoo.com or call me, Nick, at this number: (817) 614-9259.

Section B Change in Thursday night plans

2005-08-25T12:44:00.000-07:00

Since we were all invited to Zen at 5:30, we decided to scratch the meeting at Hemingway's. Spread the word; see you at 5:00.

Lauren

Hello

2005-08-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

I've heard many things about this blog and I'm just getting around to signing up. My name is Nathan and I'm in Section A.

Look forward to meeting more of you in the upcoming weeks.

Also, anyone looking for an Austin weekend fix - I'm the person to talk to (it seems among many others - lots of TexasExes around here). I'll be going back there at least for every home UT football game and probably more often than that. Let me know if anyone is ever going and we can go out when in Austin.

I've been really impressed with St. Mary's so far...

-UT-Swimmer

Good Outline info from Lorilei

2005-08-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

ATTENTION 1L’S!!!!!!!!!!!
Do you want to have a successful first year of law school?
I have study aids available for every 1L course. These resources helped me do very well. Although they are IDEAL FOR SECTION B, they would be beneficial to ANY first year student. I have quite a few other “personal” study materials that I would be happy to talk to you about when you call me.

Each subject can be purchased separately or the total package can be purchased for a discount.

Please call me for a detailed description of each item in the course packages.
512-797-6966
Lorilei Cronin J
And… Welcome to St. Mary’s

Msg From Lorilei Cronin - RE: Used Books

2005-08-22T16:04:00.000-07:00

ATTENTION 1LS!!!!!!!!!!!
Do you want to have a successful first year of law school?
I have study aids available for every 1L course.Â These resources helped me do
very well.Â Although they are IDEAL FOR SECTION B, they would be beneficial to
ANY first year student.Â I have quite a few other â€œpersonalâ€ study materials
that I would be happy to talk to you about when you call me.

Each subject can be purchased separately or the total package can be purchased
for a discount.

Please call me for a detailed description of each item in the course packages.
512-797-6966
Lorilei Cronin J
And welcome to St. Mary's!

Section C Google Group

2005-08-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

I thought section C should be different so I made a Google group for us (actually, I don't care for Yahoo! groups so that's why). The website is http://groups.google.com/group/St-Marys-1L-SectionC. In order to join, email me at ryanmwalker at gmail dot com (replace the "at" with @ and the "dot" with "." - spelling it out helps keep away the spam). I'll make an announcement Monday morning as well.

ATROX AND TWEN

2005-08-20T22:05:00.000-07:00

HAS ANYONE ELSE TRIED LOGGIN INTO ATROX AND GOTTEN AND INVALID PASSWORD MESSAGE? ALSO, FOR SECTION C'ERS HAVE YOU FIGURED WHERE TO GO TO LOG INTO TWEN FOR HAMPTON YET? IF SO WOULD YOU PLEASE TELL ME AS I HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO FIND IT YET.

2005-08-20T02:32:00.000-07:00

Hi ya'll. Hope everyone has a great weekend off before the "fun" starts. We're all gonna live, don't you worry.

A.

Pictures from SBA Orientation Party at Hemingways

2005-08-19T17:01:00.000-07:00

Well, the party was a blast. Thanks to the SBA for hosting! Here are the pictures. Enjoy!

No more anonymity....

2005-08-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

I'm going to make it to where only blog members -- and not spineless anonymous internet surfers -- can post comments on this website. This means that only those whom I have e-mailed and invited to become contributors to this site (which can be any law student at our school), can now post.

I apologize for not getting to this problem sooner. I feel a little responsible since I am the creator and administrator for this web log. I haven't had internet access in a few days and I just now was able to get online. I would really like to keep this site clean and informative. I have heard from many people that it's been useful and very good to have. I hope it continues to be. I think we could all benefit from having a good forum for online discussion in our similar law school experiences.

Again, my apologies for not taking care of this sooner. Thanks again to all friendly contributors, and yes please spread the word about this site! Have any law student at St. Mary's who has not heard about this, e-mail me at paradox_in_corpus@yahoo.com so I can invite them to join and be able to post.

Forums!

2005-08-19T12:37:00.000-07:00

Please take a minute to check out rattlerslaw.com. It is a forum that is open to all St. Mary's students to use. It will be helpful for keeping in touch with each other and making connections with students in other sections and years. There are useful links, as well as a couple just for fun. This forum will also allow you to send and receive private messages without having to post your email address where it is visible on the forum. It is also quick and easy to check for recent posts and topics. Hope it helps to enrich your experience. Enjoy!

And yes, it is moderated and you have to register to post.

Thanks!

*This site is NOT officially connected or sponsored by St. Mary's University or the School of Law. It is owned and operated by students of the law school.

OAK HILL TAVERN INFO

2005-08-17T16:06:00.000-07:00

Trivia starts at 11pm. I know i'll be there around 9pm. By 11, i guarantee 99% of the people there will be law students so just mingle away.

the people in the jazz annex arent students usually but sometimes they open up the mic and we get rowdy back there.

tips:
-dont park in front of papa johns. they get a bit mad.
-be prepared to sleep in the parking lot (or elect a DD)
-if you get a pitcher, hold on to it as if it were your only child (they run out fast).
-during trivia: if you're caught cheating; you'll get a beating (an exception exists where a team of locals[in the 1%] somehow manages to take the lead. in such a case, student teams are allowed to band together and cheat like the hubby is out of town.

Pictures from last night

2005-08-17T09:13:00.000-07:00

A few of the pictures look like my camera had one too many, a little blury, and very shinny. Sorry. Anyway, here are the pictures. Enjoy!

Friday Night's Festivities

2005-08-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

I have a feeling I am going to get ass at Friday Night's 2L/3L party. Do I have any takers?

HELP

2005-08-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

is there a kind hearted 2L or 3L who will provide some insight on what to expect from hampton and oliva?

Mi Tierras Tuesday Night

2005-08-15T09:16:00.000-07:00

For those of you that didn't read the post from a month ago, about thirty or so of us are meeting at Mi Tierras tomorrow night. The time is 8:00 and the map is posted somewhere on this blog. If you can't find it the web site is www.mitierracafe.com. Looks like we have a busy week of drinking to do, see you there.

Hittin' the ... links

2005-08-15T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hello there, folks. I'll be moving into the dorms Tuesday afternoon sometime (I sure hope I don't have to wait around until 7pm, like some 2L said they did last year!). Anybody need help moving stuff, I'm sure I won't be too busy, just gotta' move my own stuff in and arrange my belongings and whatnot, gimme an email: paradox_in_corpus@yahoo.com or call me (817)614-9259.

Anybody else play golf out there? Myself and another 1L, Ralph, are gonna shoot a round on Wednesday. Feel free to join us. Don't know where, though, I've never played any SA courses. But I'm sure we can find some place cheap!! [Including a cart fee, of course, since I'm lazy and I ain't walkin]

See ya down the road.

Wednesday Nights in San Antonio

2005-08-13T01:01:00.000-07:00

PreOrientation Festivities!

alot of the cool kids like to go to rebar and revolution on broadway, but [i'm not that cool and] i'm more into partying close to school on wednesday nights. You'll always see law students at Oak Hill Tavern 7920 Fredericksburg. it's on fredericksburg and medical next to blockbuster and across from blackeyed pea.

They have trivia every wednesday. first place gets a 2o dollar tab for the following week. second and third gets 15 and 10, respectively. It's a comfy bar. you can bring your dog, you can come in pj's. the drinks are cheap. it's like The Max for stmu law. There should be a good mix of 2 and 3L's this week and we'd love to see the 1L's before they start orientation. i'll be sending out an email to my mentees this weekend about it and i hope you guys spread the word.

if you need a break from trivia, they have a jazz annex in the back where i will gladly perform for you if you ask nicely.

So come on out...i'l try to get as many mentors out there as i can. And for a limited time only, the first few pitchers are on me (screw it, it's still summer VACAY!).

Bored!!

2005-08-12T16:21:00.000-07:00

Ok, I've been in SA for like a week now and I'm all unpacked and BORED! Can anyone more familiar with NW San Antonio suggest something fun to do?
My aunt is telling me to go to the zoo...but I'm just not all about animals that stink in the the heat of summer.
Any good local bands or anything?? Anything cheap/free is definately a plus. Still waiting on finaid funds.
Thanx~kristin

Getting closer...

2005-08-10T15:08:00.000-07:00

Law Students' Blog

Since summer is winding down, I imagine that a lot of people have made their way to San Antonio, or are about to do so. I was wondering if anyone would like to get together sometime before Mi Tierra. If so let me know! I will be in San Antonio for good Thursday.

Lauren C

Holy Cow !!!!!!

2005-08-07T14:47:00.000-07:00

That is all I can say. :)

BROYHILL DESK

2005-08-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

In case we have some new people reading this blog i have a student desk with matching bookcase hutch that i'm wanting to sell. email me if interested at wbarone@satx.rr.com.

Anecdotes.....

2005-08-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

"The study of law is something new and unfamiliar to most of you, unlike any schooling you have ever been through before. We use the Socratic Method here. I call on you, ask you a question, and you answer it. Why don't I just give you a lecture? Because through my questions, you learn to teach yourselves. Through this method of questioning, answering, question, answering… we seek to develop in you the ability to analyze that vast complex of facts that constitute the relationships of members within a given society…. Questioning and answering. At times you may feel that you have found the correct answer. I assure you that this is a total delusion on your part. You will never find the correct, absolute, and final answer. In my classroom, there is always another question, another question to follow your answer. As you're on a treadmill, my little questions spin the tumblers of your mind. You're on an operating table, my little questions are the fingers probing your brain. We do brain surgery here. You teach yourselves the law, but I train your mind. You come in here with a brain full of mush and you leave thinking like a lawyer." --- Professor Kingsfield, The Paper Chase

"In my first year of law school, everybody loved everybody else. Becuase we were all studying the law and the law was a noble thing. By my third year, you were lucky if you weren't murdered in your sleep. People stole exams, hid research materials from the library, and lied to the professors. Such is the nature of the profession." --- Matt Damon's character, the young lawyer, The Rainmaker

Law Students' Blog

2005-08-04T12:49:00.000-07:00

More Info!

No problem on the info, guys! Thank you for taking the time to introduce yourselves to me individually via email :)! Sometimes, information turns into a commodity and it creates some negative competition. I know that if I could be a 1L all over again, all this information would have been helpful. Anways, here are some answers to questions that I have received.

1) MIDTERMS: Not all professors have midterms and your mark will be based entirely on your final exam. In the first semester, most professors will have a practice midterm that is not worth anything BUT it does give you an idea of what the real test will be like and how your prof will be marking. Be sure to review your test thoroughly; correct any mistakes you made or redo the essay portion; and meet with your professor to go over both your practice midterm and your revised answers. Some professors like Johnson will have midterms in their class that go towards your score, but we did not have anything like this in Section B last year. Second semester is when your professors start playing around with the numbers a bit. For example, Reamey (crim law professor) will have a midterm (super hard!!) that will count for 25% or so of your final grade. Another example from last year is that Mather had a take home exam, a multiple choice final and mini-projects worth all worth a % of your final mark. There were still professors that will base your entire final grade on your final examination.

2) My professor list last year:

Teeter = Torts I
Mather = Property I/II
Kastely = Contracts I/II
Peeples = Civ Pro
Cantu = Torts II
Con Law = Dittfurth
Reamey = Crim Law

3) Note on the USED BOOKS I am selling: It turns out that you guys have all new textbooks except for Mather’s Property class, I guess new editions came out. Anyways, please do not let that deter you from buying used books because a new edition usually only means that cases were pulled or added. A quick, and cheaper solution, to this complication is that you buy used books and ignore the stuff that you don’t need to read and then just print out the new cases on Westlaw or Lexis for FREE! You can make sure that you are doing the correct reading by comparing your syllabus and the index. Many 2Ls and 3Ls do this to save A LOT of money.

4) Enjoy the rest of the summer! I am still working on a Section C person to write something re: professors.

Juvie

Law School Survey

2005-08-04T11:29:00.000-07:00

BASICS
name:
nickname:
age:
hometown:
college:
section:
why did you decide to attend law school:
why did you decide to attend st.mary's:
what kind of law do you want to practice:
number of sexual partners:

FAVORITE:
food:
tv show:
movie:
music:
cocktail:
prescription drug:
non-prescription drug:
sexual position:

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION:
What kind of law student do you want to be?
a) gunner...read everything, study all of the time, ask lots of questions.
b) social gunner...read most, study some, rarely ask questions, go out and drink 1-2 times a week.
c) social butterfly...read and study when you feel like you need to. go out 3-4 times a week.
d) undergrad...treat it like your fratty days...do your best to attend classes.

The MARIO Weekly

2005-08-03T11:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome to St. Mary's, guys. Enjoy your last few days of freedom. I have a few announcements.

For any Baylor Bears out there, we're having a Baylor Young Grads mixer (happy hour) on thursday night (18th) at the county line barbque joint.

For any futbol players, we have an unofficial St. Mary's indoor soccer team and we're looking for more players. We've played two seasons and I think we may be improving. We are TEAM 7. We would like to get enough people to have a competitive team, a recreational team and a co-ed team. let me know if you're interested.

For eager beavers, I want to appoint someone to the office of Interim President of the Health Law Association. I did a crappy job last year. If you accept, I have a box full of tshirts for you to sell.

For the party people, I am pretty sure the SBA will have a happy hour probably on the 26th and then the official beginning of the year party on the the 3rd of september or around that time. (I could be way off). But anyway, I'm proud to announce that Charlie Sullivan (2L) will graciously host an unofficial semester kickoff party for the second year in a row. Last year, 1L's, 2L's and 3L's danced, swam, hottubbed, water ski'ed and karaokeed their little hearts out. This year, Charlie has suggested a Floating the River Party. More details to come but the date is set for August 20th, 2005. The Marioritas will be flowin' as usual.

For the homeless, my roomie and I are looking for a 3rd. I think the rent is $275.

For the single, stay that way.

For the taken, get married.

For the curious, I am omniscient. Ask and learn.

Love,
Mario Cortes - 25yold, 3L Mentor from Houston, Texas.

More Advice: Supplements and Outlines

2005-08-03T10:55:00.000-07:00

MORE ADVISE:

- sign up for BarBri...they give you a First Year Review book that is helpful (it has general outlines and practice questions that help give you strong foundation for the basics)
- Civ Pro and Con Law...get the Essays and Explanations books to help you learn the concepts in plain English
- Kastely is a UCC fanatic...read the Hornbook for this class available for FREE at the library
- the Emmanuel Flashcards for Civ Pro and Mather's property class are also helpful
- buy a good outline from Quick Copy or get one from a 2L or a 3L...BUT REMEMBER that making your own outline is better than just using someone else's
- DO NOT get too many supplements and outlines that you are overloaded with information...choose what is best and most efficient for you
- talk to as many 2Ls and 3Ls as possible for advice about profs, exams, study aides, etc...law school is a pay it forward setting

I will not be there for orientation because I will be going home for a week BUT I will be there Aug 22 to help out as much as I can. Good luck on your first year!

Juvie

hello again

2005-08-02T17:22:00.000-07:00

I'm a 2l and I will be in SA til school starts except for 6th and 9-11 and if you want me to show you around or go out feel free to call me at 210-823-5060. Every Wednesday while it's warm at county line they have a free concert series that starts at 8-10, and it's a pretty good time. Someone asked about any shopping items-if your a girl or guy really (just more girls have them) I would get a rolling bag that has a laptop carrying insert in them you can get them at Office Depot or other places but they really help your back. Other than that I will also be volunteering at orientation so hopefully I'll meet a lot of you soon.
Tracy

Section B Professors and Advice

2005-08-02T11:41:00.000-07:00

Law Students' Blog

I finally am getting a chance to offer my two cents on Section B professors….

1) TEETER

Teeter will make you critically examine judicial opinions. Being able to regurgitate black letter law is not good enough to make it through his class. His class is pretty straightforward BUT his multiple choice exam first semester is detailed and can be difficult for those that underestimate the complexity of torts. Keep your outline updated and ask for clarification as soon as confusion arises (he has an open door policy so take advantage of that). He will usually choose students A, B and C and then direct the entire class’s questions to those three. Every student will be made to participate. Good news is that he does not make you stand up. Also, remember that if you do not know the answer, you can ask for co-counsel BUT be prepared to answer a different question later in the class because he will not forget that you did not participate. One last thing….Teeter is a pretty easy going guy until students start showing up late for class….do yourself a favor, avoid his wrath. It’s not funny seeing a man in a Hawaiian shirt angry.

2) MATHER

If you have not already done so, BUY THE EMMANUEL PROPERTY COMMERCIAL OUTLINE!!! Mather formats her class and her overheads almost 90% from this. In the second semester, some people in my class would actually bring the book to class and just write in stuff that was not included in the outline but was mentioned in class. Also, most professors have a strict 3 absence rule BUT Mather usually does not do anything until about the 6th or 7th absence, however, remember that going to class is a critical part of preparing for the exam. Her exams are pretty straightforward and the essay portion focuses mostly on black letter law and issue spotting. For the first semester, you have to endure the pain of Future Interest. I suggest getting started on this book as soon as possible BEFORE you get to this point in the course because it is detailed, complex and confusing. The Future Interest book is super helpful so read it thoroughly…it will be worth 50% of the final exam.

3) REAMEY

Great professor with a great sense of humor. I learned the most from this class because of his teaching methods. Take accurate notes in class and buy the recommended reading because HE WROTE IT! I used that book more than the actual case book to prep for the midterm and the exam. He too has an open door policy and will take the time to go over any question you have no matter how long it takes. Keep your outline updated and do not miss more than 3 classes otherwise he will deduct an entire grade from your final grade.

4) DITTFURTH

He loves hypos for con law. Pay attention to his hypos and pull up all the past exams he had in the past. Last year’s final for con law had at least 2-3 questions that were asked (an answered) in his old exams. Also, buy the Explanations and Essays book to help you find your footing in his class.

5) CANTU

This man will like you if you show him extreme respect. Although he is pretty up there, he will help out students at a drop of a hat. He pretty much feeds you an outline so keeping up in his Torts class is pretty easy. You don’t really need any supplements for this class. His essay exams are easy if you look at old exams BUT his multiple choice exam did not make very many people happy. Remember the littlest details about what he says in class (i.e. how much can a person claim against a parent of a negligent child, etc). Don’t underestimate the class just because it is straightforward.

6) KASTELY

Kastely has a different teaching style that works for some and not for others. I personally did well in that class and actually enjoyed her. She may be hard to follow at first but DO NOT STOP GOING TO CLASS. The only way for you to get a mark above the curve is if you pay attention to issues that she notes in class and are not found in her overheads or in the book. Also, take advantage of the fact that she will personally look over any practice exams that you take on your own time….VERY HELPFUL when trying to figure out what she is looking for and how you can beat the curve!

7) ADDICOTT

We never had him last year BUT I heard from others that he does not fail anyone. If he is teaching you guys civil procedure, I would suggest to get the Essays and Explanations book to keep you abreast of topics and issues covered. He likes to talk about his extensive past (I promise you will be amazed). For those that are interested in Terrorism Law he is the man you need to meet.

8) PIATT

Up until this point, many of you will be slacking off in the legal writing and research class (and then panicking when you get an internship that actually requires you to remember what you learned). Once Piatt takes over, she turns the class into a regular class…socratic method and all. Before she teaches, READ YOUR CASE because she will ask you detail oriented questions. Don’t be unprepared.

Lockers?

2005-08-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

Somebody asked me about getting a locker, which I would like to do. Where do we go to sign up for one? Who do we talk to? Also, do they already come with like those little combo locks, or should we provide a master lock/key?

Housing Assignments

2005-08-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

For those planning to live on-campus, you might be excited to know that the Housing Assignments are being mailed out as we speak. I received mine in the mail this morning -- Leies Hall, 1st floor (at least, I'm assuming it's first floor since it is a "100" number, not "200" or "300").

16 days till I can check in and move in. Can't wait.

Pictures?

2005-07-31T06:53:00.000-07:00

Has any one taken their picture yet? The first time I went the camera was not working. I wanted to try again tomorrow, so I was just wondering.

Law Students' Blog

2005-07-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

Law Students' Blog

Hi everyone,
After unpacking stuff from my annoying move from Arizona, I realized that I have a linksys modem and router for my old desktop. I have no need for them, and if anyone wants them I would be more than happy to save someone a few dollars. They are both about a year old, and worked perfectly for the wireless internet that I had in my old house. Let me know if anyone wants them!
Lauren

LUNCH ANYONE

2005-07-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

I know there are already several people in san antonio. is anyone interested in meeting for lunch before august 16?
my email is wbarone@satx.rr.com.

Private Loans

2005-07-27T17:59:00.000-07:00

Has anybody, waiting to hear about their private loans, heard anything??

map of Mi Tierra's....

2005-07-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

It's located at the corner of Santa Rosa & W Commerce, where it says Market Square.

the local Starbucks....

2005-07-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

It's good to know that there's a Starbucks close to the school, located here. Fortunately or unfortunately, it's inside a Barnes & Noble book store. Any other coffee folks out there? I really like the grande carmel frappucino.

Stolen Idea

2005-07-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone in Section B,

I stole Jordan's brilliant idea and started a yahoo group for section B. Email me at lauren_alicia1L@yahoo.com and I will send you an invite to join.

This is a great way to spread info. fast and keep in touch when the school work begins to bury us.

If you wanna take a look first, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/section_B_stmarylaw/

Update on Get Togethers?

2005-07-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone...I know its been talked about a lot, but I was just wondering if we can post when ya'll are planning a little get together for us to get to know each other. I'll be moving in on the 16th, and it would be really cool to meet up and get to know all ya'll. Well, please post a comment about it or email me at jellazar@hotmail.com. Ya'll take care and enjoy the summer.

And Remember! Only 24 Shopping Days 'Til Orientation!

2005-07-25T14:23:00.000-07:00

(plays Christmas Music)

Has anybody else put off their school shopping, or am I the only one?

And speaking of shopping, can you 2'Ls and 3'Ls suggest some items we newcomers should buy, things you wish someone had suggested before you got to school?

And speaking of school, where is the nearest liquor store?

See you guys in 24 days!

"Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring ting tingling, too
Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you
Outside the snow is falling and friends are calling "Yoo Hoo!"
Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you..."

System of a Down anyone?

2005-07-24T22:18:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,

I know a lot of you are ariving in San Antonio around August and may be looking for something to do. I have an extra pair of tickets to the System of a Down concert on August 12 (really good seats). If anyone is interested in buying them at face value or wants more information please let me know. rlively@stmarytx.edu

Hey All! Anyone Dorming?

2005-07-22T14:58:00.000-07:00

Hey All! Wanted to say Hi and introduce myself. Name's Joe, and I'm coming over from California. I'm in Section C, and me being so far from home...I definitely don't know anyone or been anywhere in Texas. So totally a newbie in San Antonio... Well, I've found out (for anyone thats doing the Dorm thing) that the earliest we can move into the Dorms (Leis Hall) is on Tuesday, August 16th. Also, the Residence Life stated that (if you haven't recieved housing info packets, as I haven't) they will be sending out Dorm packets some time next week. So I'll be in San Antonio on the 16th, and I was hoping to get together to meet as many of you before we start getting all busy with the craziness thats ahead of us. I'm down really for anything (casual dinners, bar hopping, dancin' up the dance floor...whatever). Also, is anyone else dorming around here?

Section D Yahoo Group

2005-07-22T12:48:00.000-07:00

To subscribe, send a request to STMU_section_D-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Hey Ladies...

2005-07-22T09:35:00.000-07:00

That's me on the right. Remember you can email me at johnnydrama08@hotmail.com

put on your dancing shoes

2005-07-22T06:51:00.000-07:00

Anyone out there who likes to dance? Swing or lindyhop? http://samsburgerjoint.com/ on Monday nights looks like a great way take a break and have a little fun.

new stuff in the mail....

2005-07-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

Got some new mail stuff on orientation. I'm looking forward to it. I've still got to decide what I'm going to wear. (Maybe not a suit for the picture after all. I don't want to look drenched with sweat and tired in the Texas sun for my photograph.) I suppose everyone else will be decked out and ready to look professional??? I'm really looking forward to the talks by the judges and professors, on intro to the profession and all that. I'm sure it will be interesting and informative.

Any dorm-room assignments for anybody yet? I'll post when I get mine. I'll probably need to figure out where it's located at Leis Hall (assuming it is, indeed, in Leis).

We're all still on for Tuesday the 16th, 8:00pm at Mi Tierra, right? Just making sure.

* I like that we have 35 contributors to the website as of today. I think the blog has been a success! I hope it has benefited everyone, I know it's helped me.

I sure hope this "book charge" deal doesn't diminish our chances of getting new -- as opposed to used -- textbooks. I want new stuff, all new, preferably. The updated orientation packet said that if you're going with the $650 charge thing, then you've got to wait until orientation to purchase books. Surely they won't all be gone before those of us buying at orientation buy our books? Just curious about that.

The new letter also said we will be getting our advance assignments at orientation for the first day of class. Gulp.

Laptops

2005-07-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

To the 1l's: Does most everybody have a laptop, and if not, are you planning on getting one?
To the 2L's & 3L's: Is having a laptop pretty much the norm? I am wondering if purchasing one would be to my benefit and if it would be worth the investment.
Just curious!

Taking your picture early!

2005-07-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

Alex asked me to relay that... he heard from "the man" and got word that incoming law students will be able to start taking their ID photos on July 25th (as opposed to the 7/18 date given in a recent packet). GET THIS DONE EARLY. Last year they were stuck waiting in line for a good hour and a half before they got to take the pic. This would not have been so bad except the hallway was cramped, it was August, and they had been walking around a lot (some of them in suits). Needless to say, he dosen't think their pictures look that great. So, take your picture early if you can and avoid the hassle.

If you are coming in from out of town for the sole purpose of taking the ID photo, please call the Office of Admissions [(512) 436-3523] to verify that the picture can be taken.

DRESSING UP
It is a head shot picture. If you want to wear a suit, please do--it's going to be warm though. However, those shiny shoes and nice pants will not be in the picture; if you wore flip-flops and shorts, the picture would be just as nice so long as what is visible is proper.

section c

2005-07-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

would section c folks like to meet before orientation? email me if so.
also, if anyone is interested i have a broyhill student desk with matching bookcase hutch that i'm wanting to sell.

A Long Shot, But Worth a Try

2005-07-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

I am in need of a stackable washer and dryer (small apartment size). My new place does not have room for a full size set. If you can help, email me: Lauren_Alicia@hotmail.com

Also, I am selling my Dell desktop because I am buying a laptop for school.

It's Pentium 3 Dell PC w/ speakers, keyboard, mouse, and monitor. It'd be perfect for a younger sibling or a grandparent who just wants to surf the web, write letters, and listen to music. I'll also include all the software that it came with. I'm asking $350, but will negotiate.

Study Aids

2005-07-21T10:52:00.000-07:00

Does anyone know how I can fake symptons of A.D.D. to get aderol? Where I get tested? And how much it costs? Or better yet, if you know of someone who could hook me up that would save me a lot of time and trouble. Email me at: johnnydrama08@hotmail.com

Another Section D-er ...

2005-07-20T08:06:00.000-07:00

Yet another Section D-er here...(sec B for LR/W) introducing myself. My name is Erin. I'm 27, married to my high school sweetheart who is an Austin firefighter, and we have two small boys, ages 3 years and 5 months. I got my BA in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice from St. Edward's University in Austin in 2000. I just received my MA in Legal Studies, majoring in Alternative Dispute Resolution from Texas State in May. Really looking forward to meeting all of you, especially my section members. I too am still waiting on some info regarding the private loan. Not sure what the hold up is, but it's making me kind of nervous. Just want everything done & settled w/ that soon so that I won't have any worries about it.

I haven't been able to attend any of the mixers. We moved to SA about a week and a half ago. We're originally from Austin, so we're not far from home, but neither of us have lived anywhere else, so it's nice to do something different. We live in the Medical Center area too. The drive to STMU isn't bad at all from here.

Disappointed to hear about the lack of choice of law school stuff in the bookstore, but not at all surprised. Did anyone see if they have STMU Law t-shirts or anything like that? I'd like a couple of those ... so would the parents. JEEZ!

Am I going to have time for sex?

2005-07-18T20:59:00.000-07:00

I am looking to start a study group where people "reward" each other for correct answers. Is anyone else interested?

Requirements: Must be clean and good looking (all shapes and sizes welcomed)

Cheap, Used First Year Law Books

2005-07-18T14:53:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

First off, CONGRATULATIONS on being accepted into St. Mary's Law. You must all be super excited for your first year. I know that you might have alot of questions, so please feel free to contact me at 210-710-0938 or at jcruz5@stmarytx.edu. I will be in San Antonio for the rest of the summer and would be happy to meet or speak with any of you to help make the transition smoother.

Some info on me...
Name: Juvie Cruz (female)
Alienage: Canadian
Year: 2L
First Year Section: B
Age: 26
Status: Non-resident Alien (*I am an international student and one of the few Canadians at StMU)

I cannot wait to meet you all at Orientation and during the year. Best of luck to all of you!

Juvie
-----
ATTENTION 1Ls

*Used, Cheap, First Year Textbooks For Sale*
All books as good as new or slightly used!!

Contact 210-710-0938 or jcruz5@stmarytx.edu for more information.

TORTS I/II Package - $35
Title: Cases and Materials on Torts
Author: Epstein, 8th Edition

Price INCLUDES a Study Package:
1) class outline
2) practice final exam
3) Legal Lines Case Summaries

TORTS I/II Package - $35
Title: Torts, Cases and Materials
Author: Prosser Wade and Schwartz’s, 10th Edition

Price INCLUDES a Study Package:
1) class outline
2) practice final exam
3) High Court Case Summaries

PROPERTY I/II - $40
Title: Property
Author: Dukeminier Krier, 5th Edition

Price INCLUDES a Study Package:
1) class outline
2) Emmanuel’s Law Outline
3) High Court Case Summaries

CONTRACTS I/II - $20
Title: Contracting Law
Author: Kastely Post Hom, 2nd Edition

Price INCLUDES a Study Package:
1) class outline
2) Contracting Law Student Workbook

LEGAL WRITING - $5
Title: Plain English for Lawyers
Author: Richard Wydick, 4th Edition

CONSTITUTIONAL LAW - $50
Title: Constitutional Law
Author: Chemerinsky

Price INCLUDES a Study Package:
1) class outline
2) Emmanuel’s Law Outline
3) High Court Case Summaries
4) Chemerinsky’s 2004 Supplement
to Constitutional Law

MODERN CRIMINAL LAW - $45
Title: Constitutional Law
Author: Chemerinsky

Price INCLUDES a Study Package:
1) class outline
2) Emmanuel’s Law Outline
3) High Court Case Summaries

Contact 210-710-0938 for more information.

2005-07-15T19:41:00.000-07:00

Hey guys.

I am a first year law student looking for a ride to school. I am in Section C which has 8:00 - 4:50 pm classes on MWF and one class onTues/Thurs at 2:00 pm. I live in the Medical Center area and the name of my complex is TheMedical Center Apartments, which are located approximately 20 minutesfrom school. I don't mind being early or staying late at school - I just need toarrive to class on time :) I am more than willing to share costs of transportation and split the costs of your parking permit with you. Any other details we can work out as well.Please reply to this thread if you can help. I would really appreciate it.
My email is arodrig1@gmail.com for anyone who can help!

Also if you are looking for an apt - the two apts across from mine are vacacted!

It is a great apt complex - nice pool and gym facilities and lots of pet areas.

-Andrea

Head count for sections.....

2005-07-15T17:50:00.000-07:00

Hey, since we're all curious about it, I'd like to get a count of all the people in the sections (A, B, C, and D). Comment on this post, letting us all know you're name, what section you're in, and your e-mail address. That way, we can all get a rough idea of who we're with in our sections and we can start e-mailing one another.

Bookstore items

2005-07-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

I don't know if its SBA or whoever does this, but I know some of them read this website and such (maybe).

But it would be nice if we could get some small or extra-small shirts in the bookstore for STMU people. I went and visited to get a workout shirt and its medium and absolutely huge. I don't know what they are trying to suggest about law students by only having medium to extra large shirts. :-P

FURTHER the STMU Law sticker for your car is red white and blue and absolutely obnoxious. Who is responsible for these things? Maybe we can get some alternatives. Just some suggestions. Does anybody else agree with me on these things? I think I'm a patriot but that's a bit much.

I'd like to be proud of my stuff, not embarassed to use it!

radio stations....

2005-07-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

Hey for those of you who are already in San Antonio, what are all the country radio stations down there?

Mixer Interest

2005-07-12T15:32:00.000-07:00

I just find it amusing that the post receiving the most participation is about us getting together for a mixer! :) I am sure I am not the only one to get a chuckle from that.

Looking forward to meeting everyone!

Section C

2005-07-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, I am a Section C-type (across the board). I am in Austin for the next 3 weeks if there is anyone in the area who wants to meet up prior to school. Feel free to email me: beer, coffee, or food: I like them all.
My knowledge of San Antonio is very limited, I got an apartment in the Medical Center area which seems to be an ok part of town and not too far from school.

Regarding student loans, I spoke to the Financial Aid office today and they said there is no further action to be taken on our part until orientation (assuming you filled out your mpn and any other private loan apps online). That also goes for letters of enrollment needed for undergrad loan deferment. Yes, I still have undergrad loans…ugghhh.

Looking forward to meeting y’all
-Myles B

Babysitters...

2005-07-12T07:47:00.000-07:00

Well, moving to San Antonio leaves me with a few childcare issues. So, I am looking for good babysitters for my two daughters (4 & 8) from time to time. We are going to be living on the northwest side of town (not too far from sea world). Thanks for any help!

Jordan F

San Antonio Mixer?

2005-07-11T19:49:00.000-07:00

I've also missed every mixer so far. I know alot of people aren't here and settled yet, but if anyone allready here wants to meet for drinks lets try to plan something.

Another Section D-er

2005-07-11T15:46:00.000-07:00

Hey, all. I, too, am in Section D (Section B for Research and Writing). I've heard a few things from friends and my parents (they both had Cantu and Dittfurth in the '70s), and it sounds like we've got a good deal going (other than getting out late on Fridays - I hate that).

The Reader's Digest story on me: I'm from San Antonio, have a Bachelors of Journalism from the University of Missouri (graduated in 2002), worked in Public Relations for a year, thought about teaching journalism, and now I find myself going to law school. Go figure.

I am up for any get togethers if ya'll know of any or want to plan one. I haven't been able to go to any of the Happy Hours, etc. But it is always nice to have familiar faces for something like this, so if ya'll hear of another event please post it and hopefully I'll be able to make one finally!

Looking forward to meeting ya'll.

Section A

2005-07-11T13:31:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

I know a lot of you are asking for information on your profs. I noticed that no one had posted about the section A profs. That is probably because they are pretty much all different from the ones that we had last year.

I don't know anything about Lytton, but I'm sure they'll be better then who we had last year.

As for Cochran, he is one of the best professors at St. Mary's. He is a really nice professor and you will learn a lot in his class. His reading assignments are usually pretty short so that helps too.

We never had Teeter, but I have heard a lot of really good things about him. From what I understand he is very engaging.

Finally you have Peeples for Civ Pro. That should be interesting. Peeples is by no means an easy prof, he runs his classroom a lot like a courtroom and doesn't want to hear any answers that you can't back up with analysis.

Legal Research and Writing will be broken up into smaller groups, but the main classes will be taught by the same people for everyone. If things go like they did last year, you should have the Mikes for legal research. They are funny, nice and exceedingly helpful. You will have Tullos for Legal Writing, you will also have an adjunct professor who you will really need to listen to.

Anyway, hope this helps you guys. Good luck.

Hello

2005-07-11T11:49:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I'm Lisa, a 2L. I was in Section B last year so I had Mather, Kastely, Teeter, Peeples, Cantu, and Dittfurth. Email me if you have any questions about them ( ldiven@stmarytx.edu ). I wanted to let all of you in Houston know that there is an informal gathering at Sherlock's on Westheimer (10001 Westheimer Rd. Houston, TX 77077 • 713-977-1857) July 15th From 8:00 P.M. until 10:00 P.M. (officially) that is being organized by Brian Carter. If I hear about anything else, I'll post it here as well as emailing it to my mentees. If you haven't heard from a mentor, email me and I'll put you on my list.

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Section D

2005-07-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

It would be great if we could somehow have a list off to the side for each of the different section members. I don't think blogspot has that sort of module available though. Maybe we could have a blog post for each section and members can make comments so we can have a list of who is in each section. Anyway...just a thought. Obviously, I am in Section D (Section A for Legal Research/Writing)

Available Apartment

2005-07-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

I had completely forgotten that the apartment upstairs from me is vacant right now. It's a two bedroom (I think), so you might want to find a roommate, but it's furnished if that's an issue for you. Water's included, but you have to cover the other bills. It's not an actual complex, but a house that's been renovated into three units, located in Alamo Heights. It's about 15-20 minutes from campus (during evening rush hour traffic...haven't experienced mornings yet) and in a great part of town. The landlords are a pretty nice older couple who keep the place in decent order. If you want me to put you in touch with them or have more questions, shoot me an e-mail: bkaminar@gmail.com

Hi

2005-07-10T13:11:00.000-07:00

My name is Kelly. I am an entering 1L and not from around San Antonio. I grew up in a little town north of Houston. I graduated from Texas A&M (college station) with a B.S. in agricultural development, which is, in large part, very leadership focused and not so much being a farmer or anything. I have been assigned to section D. Also, I was wondering if anyone knew of or could recommend some better parts of town to look at apartments? Have people already been having mixers or get-togethers? If so, how did yall know about them? Oh, and to whoever posted about the student loans, I haven't heard back from my private loans either through Wells Fargo -- still waiting on St. Mary's I think.

More contributors, please.....

2005-07-09T15:05:00.000-07:00

A few people have e-mailed me about becoming contributors to the website. That's good. Anybody else out there who needs me to invite them to become a contributor, please send me an e-mail: paradox_in_corpus@yahoo.com

Thanks for posting that information about the declaration form, Alex and Lin. Any more information like that, I'm sure we could all use. I plan to take advantage and get that done before school starts.

I hope more 2Ls and 3Ls will post some of their thoughts and observations on our professors, if they could. And any other useful tips and advice.

If there's anyone out there who is an internet nerd like me, here's some cool lawand law school-related websites that I like to read: http://barelylegalblog.blogspot.com/ and http://www.legalunderground.com/ and http://www.jdjive.com/list.php?1 They range from funny stuff to good info about the legal profession. Check them out.

I'm really happy with the website so far. It's working great!

Intent to Practice in Tx - App.

2005-07-09T09:25:00.000-07:00

Alex has given a heads up on some more requirements and I just thought I would put it here on the main page for everyone.

Alex said...Just a friendly reminder for those of you intending to practice law in Texas: get at least six references lined up, a thorough resume prepared, copies of any police citations or arrest reports (if applicable), and make sure you didn't "fudge a little" on your law school application (if you did, amend it to make corrections). All of these things will be required when you file your intent to practice law application. Don't make the mistake of waiting until your are drowning in reading assignments, get it out of the way now. Besides, you'll be the envy of all those around you.The rep from the TX Board of Legal Examiners will tell you about this during orientation. Here is their web site along with instructions for filling out the application. Enjoy!http://www.ble.state.tx.us/forms/DownloadPgm/DecReq1.htm--Alex Aguirre

Alex said...The deadline will be anounced during orientation. It'll sneak up on you relatively quickly so get the documentation in order now and let everyone else sweat it out. Another advantage of completing your paperwork and application before the deadline is that you will save money. All 1Ls who complete the application before the deadline (BTW this applies only to 1Ls) pay a reduced fee, saving a nice chunk of change (I don't remember how much).If you could spread the word to others, I am sure they will appreciate it. I'm new to this Blog stuff and am not certain as to how I can post this message on the main page. Email me (alex-aguirre@austin.rr.com)or any other mentor if you have additional questions. Having said this, please take advantage of having a mentor. I had a wonderfully brilliant mentor last year named Brenda Ryan who helped me quite a bit. However, I did not utilize her knowledge and experiences in Law School to the extent I should have. Don't make this same mistake.---Alex

Balcones Heights?

2005-07-09T02:05:00.000-07:00

Any thoughts, comments, suggestions on living in the Balcones Heights area? On the map it looks like an easy trip up Hillcrest. Does anyone know what the area is like?

What about apartment complexes on Callaghan Rd?

I would like to stay on the inside of 410.

Hellooo!

2005-07-08T10:39:00.000-07:00

Well I just returned from my little trip to San Antonio. I went to the school and was slightly frightened by the large hot pink bank in the neighborhood of STMU. I wonder if the ATM there worked like a pinata.

I am also in Section D, Section B for legal research.

My info for anyone interested. I'm coming from Marshall, TX-about 45 min from Louisiana border. I'm 23, graduated from Stephen F. Austin State in Aug 2004 and am 6 hr away from completing my Master's in Public Administration at SFA. My undergrad is Political Science/Psychology. I bring with me my 2 crazy cats (Punky Brewster and Jelly Bean) and my 6 year old Pekignese (Baby). I have a few pics at http://kristinrglee.blogspot.com/

I'm planning to move into a condo at Spyglass Hill in the medical center area. Ok....I'm pretty dang boring so that's about it!

OHH! I think one of my old friends named Kristy Buckner goes to STMU and is a 2L...but I can't find her contact info so if anyone can email me and let me know I would love to try to get in touch with her!

Section B

2005-07-08T09:31:00.000-07:00

Um, do the people in section b not own computers or use the internet. I think I've only seen 2 of us. Just want to see who else is in the section. Also, how big is the entering class? I mean, I'm sure we're not the only ones looking for apartments and info. I wonder where everyone else is!

My Info

2005-07-08T06:37:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

Thanks to Nathan and Ralph for getting this started, and thanks to the 2Ls and 3Ls who are doing a great job alleviating some of my stress.

Here's a little about me. I'm 29, divorced, and I have a five-year-old son. I went back to school after my ex and I split up. I graduated in May from St. Edward's in Austin with a BA in English Writing and Rhetoric.

Right now I live in Marble Falls. I take care of Caleb during the week and wait tables at
Cafe 909 on the weekends.

My biggest fear of going to law school is that I will wake up in three years and not know who my son is (he'll be nine when I am done). Because of this fear, I am taking it one semester at a time. If after the fall semester I see that Caleb is not handling it well (no matter how well I do), then I will stop law school and reexamine my future.

If anyone is interested, I have a personal blog. I am not diligent about posting so there's not a lot to read, but there is a picture of Caleb :> http://laurenalicia.blogspot.com/

Hello

2005-07-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

It's been fun reading everyone's posts!

Here's a little about me:

* I received my BA in English in 2001 from George Mason Univ., in the DC metro area. After that, I worked for three years as an editor. Now I work at an attorney's office near my hometown in southeastern Virginia.

* I won't be in San Antonio until a couple of days before orientation (kind of last-minute!).

* I just found out that I'll be in Section C. Is anyone else here in C?

---Michelle

My information

2005-07-07T18:06:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all...

My name is Nathan, and I graduated from the University of Texas Pan American in May 2005 with a BA in Anthropology and minors in Political Science and English...

Um, I was really involved with Student Government back at my university. I was Senator of Social and Behavioral Sciences and then afterwards I was Student Government President. That was a lot of fun, and I found it to be really rewarding. I hope to continue to be involved in perhaps SBA though we'll see how time constraints go.

I like to do a lot of things, including hunting and fishing, though I also still play video games. My XBOX is going to come with me!

I am moving up to SA on August 6th. I also like to have a good time, an occasional drink, or two (or whatever). Red wine is great, though I'm also a fan of vodka. So if there are any mixers or anything of that nature, be sure to invite me! I'm sure I seem REAL classy now. ;)

I'm also in Section D! Best section for last? ... kidding guys. KIDDING.

Hello from another 2L

2005-07-07T12:51:00.000-07:00

I'm excited everyone is so ambitious, and that I get to meet you all soon. It's true don't even think about getting a job for your first year it is so busy you will barely have time to breathe, but it's a lot of fun too. Even if you do decide to work the hrs/wk you can work is restricted by the bar rules. No you don't need to study for the bar your first day of class, and actually you won't be cracking down and studying for that until the end of your 3rd yr. I'm sure if you have 6 classes and 2 are at the same time it is an error, but I'm sure it will get fixed before your 1st day of school. I'll be in SA all summer if anyone wants to come down and visit or moves down here before school starts. I'm in SBA which is the student bar association and we do among other things most of the social event planning, and there will be plenty of opportunities to go out before and after school starts. Other than that I would buy your books as soon as you can so that you have the possibility of getting used books. I would call the financial aid office about any loan questions-sometimes they are helpful and sometimes not. If your a girl living by yourself and you are not going to live on campus I would try to get a place that is about 10 minutes away from campus and not right next to campus b/c the neighborhood around campus is a little shady, but you definently feel safe on campus so don't worry about that. Anyways feel free to contact me w/ any questions or whatever. My email is tkasparek@stmarytx.edu and my phone # is 210-823-5060.