Elizabeth Orr has always known how she wants to use her skills as a lawyer. In this profile, she shares the opportunities at Chicago-Kent that have given her the perspective she needs to find the best area of law for her. She also shares the opportunities she’s had as a leader in our student organizations to invest in other students.
Student Profile
- Class year: 2019
- Division: Full-time day
- Hometown: Valparaiso, IN
- Academic Background: B.A. from Butler University and M.P.S. from Cornell University
- Social media: LinkedIn, Instagram
What drew you to the legal profession and law school?
I always knew that I wanted to be a lawyer because lawyers protect people. To be able to right a wrong for someone is life-changing. I hope that one day (soon) I will be worthy of that power.
What stood out about Chicago-Kent?
The community at Chicago-Kent make it so special and different than the other law schools I visited. For me, Chicago-Kent is a collaborative and friendly atmosphere where students build skills along with relationships.
At Chicago-Kent:
- Public Interest Resource Center, Head Student Counselor
- Clerk, Cook County Office of the Public Guardian (Summer 2017)
- Extern, The Chambers of the Honorable Regina A. Scannicchio (Circuit Court of Cook County)
- Clerk, Dussias Wittenberg Koenigsberger, LLP
Do you have a favorite professor or class that has confirmed or changed your goals in coming to Chicago-Kent?
The Domestic Violence Practicum with Professors Johnson and Baker had a big impact on me. It showed me how vulnerable litigants are in domestic relations proceedings and the impact a good attorney can make in someone’s life.
Are you focusing your studies on a particular area of law or pursuing a certificate?
I’m focusing my studies in the area of Family Law. Along with that, I’m pursuing the Public Interest Law Certificate. The certificate program addresses several facets of public interest work and has provided great perspective for me.
What programs or opportunities have surprised you at Chicago-Kent?
I was surprised by the scale of the legal externship program. Professor Gross has so many opportunities for students to work in the court system and receive credit for their experience.
Student Leadership
- Kent Justice Foundation (KJF), Auction Chair 2018-2019
- Justinian Society, President, 2017-2018 (VP 2018-2019)
- Society of Women in Law (WIL), Treasurer, 2017-2018
- CK Student Advocates
What made you want to get involved in these roles?
Law school is a difficult process, and being involved in activities helped me to find more enjoyment over the course of my law school career. I especially love working with the Kent Justice Foundation because we raise money so that Chicago-Kent students may work in public interest positions without suffering financial hardship.
What contribution do you hope to make as a student leader?
I hope to show appreciation to the school and everyone else that has helped me. I hope that I have helped some other students in turn.
Beyond Law School
What are some skills or interests people might not guess about you?
Literally, everyone guesses that I craft and bake!
What do you do to relax outside of school?
I am a crafter, baker, reader, and mom to two dogs.
What neighborhood do you live in? What do you like about it?
I live in the Loop—in the heart of the city. I love that there is always something to do or see if I have free time.
What is your favorite way to enjoy Chicago?
I love going to a neighborhood and sampling a few restaurants. Chicago is a great place to eat.
