Student Testimonials

“I enjoyed several aspects of the Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic. The clinic simulates what it is like to work as a transactional lawyer.
Developing rapport with my clients, and advising them, were the highlights of my clinic experience. When my clients asked me legal advice, or shared personal information with me, I felt a sense of pride and responsibility.
Also, after extensive redrafting of my client’s IRS 1023 application for charitable status, I found it gratifying to review the application in final form, and at long last, submit it to the IRS. I also found it interesting to experience the real-life pressure of responding to inquiries, researching, and drafting or revising documents according to client-imposed deadlines. My ECDC clinic was terrific. I recommend students who may be interested in becoming transactional attorneys register for this unique experience.”

-David Ebro, JD expected 2021

“I was an ECDC student for two semesters. Being a “student attorney” under Professor Heard was an uplifting experience. Law school can be a stressful and a confusing time for a students. I was fortunate that I realized early on that I wanted to dedicate all my energy and time into clinic versus a more traditional academic extracurricular. Having clients reminded me why I wanted to become a lawyer. Clinic was challenging and time intensive but the value I gained under the direction of a good supervising attorney and mentor was priceless. The ECDC clinic provides students with critical thinking, writing skills, and client interaction that they will not gain in any other class.”

-Ana Hernandez-Pace, JD expected 2019

“The Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic gave me real world experience. During my time as a clinic student attorney I worked with clients on a variety of issues, all under the guidance of a wonderful Professor. Drafting service agreements, forming LLCs, and counseling clients on different non-profit entities were just a few of my tasks. I've learned so much in such a short time. The clinic has been a great addition to my resume and even helped me obtain a summer internship. I would recommend this clinic to any student, whether or not they plan on pursuing a transactional practice.”

-Katherine Zellner, JD expected 2020

“The Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic has given me the most rewarding experience in my law school career. Working in the clinic has provided me with the skills and experience that my future employer will find beneficial. I have had the opportunity to interview and correspond with real clients, draft client memos and bylaws, and manage my own work load while being accountable to a supervising attorney (the professor). I include my experience in the Clinic as work experience on my resume, and most importantly I have been able to develop a mentorship relationship with Professor Heard.” 

-Kathryn Torres, JD expected 2019