Emmalee Clark helps show next generation of pre-law students how to succeed at OHIO

The first in her family to go to college, Emmalee Clark decided to navigate Ohio University by following in the footsteps of successful juniors and seniors. Now she's in that leadership role for a new class of pre-law students as a pre-law learning community leader.

"As a first-generation student, I decided I was going to take my college career very seriously. I followed in the footsteps of upperclassmen I thought were successful. I made every academic decision with the mindset of how will this be beneficial to my future. I began joining student organizations, running for executive positions, and getting involved on campus in every way that I could," said Clark, a College of Arts and Sciences junior who is majoring in political science, minoring in communication studies and pursuing a Law, Justice and Culture Certificate.

Now it's her turn to share her expertise and experiences with first-year students this fall as she works in a learning community lead by Larry Hayman, Esq., director of legal engagement and pre-law program at the Center for Law, Justice and Culture and Center for Advising, Career and Experiential Learning.

"I had Larry Hayman as my learning community professor my freshman year. He impacted my life through the coursework and his support," Clark said. "Through every class I learned the importance of doing well in school, the resources OHIO has to offer, and all about law school. I still meet with Larry every semester to discuss what I need to do to get into law school. He is such a great resource and has always offered me so much support!"

Hayman has been impressed with all that Clark has already accomplished at OHIO.

”Emmalee went through the Pre-Law Learning Community virtually in the fall of 2020. Despite those challenges, she learned the value of community engagement, time management, mentorship, and leadership. She’s currently an officer in Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, the Political Science Majors Association, and OIP-u (Ohio Innocence Project university chapter) in addition to being a learning community leader. She is instilling in her students those same tools for success by hosting study sessions, taking them to campus events, and getting them involved in the CLJC community,” Hayman said.

Q&A with Emmalee Clark

Q: What was your ah-ha moment at OHIO—that point where you said to yourself, “I’ve got this!”?

A: After I finished my last final this past semester, I reflected on all of the things I had accomplished in the past year. For the first time in college, I was genuinely impressed with myself. My ah-ha moment was realizing what I am capable of. Throughout all of the stress and times of doubt that I could meet my goals and standards that I hold myself to, I kept going. When I look back on what I have done and how I have performed, it was truly a moment that made me realize my potential.

Q:  What was the hardest hill you had to climb (not counting Jeff Hill) at OHIO? And how did you overcome challenges or obstacles in your path?

A: The hardest hill I had to climb was prioritizing myself above work and school. I took on a lot of responsibility, and in return I was working consistently. I was not taking breaks because I always felt that there was more work I could be doing. I began to get burnt out, and my performance was lacking. I learned that I need to start prioritizing my mental and physical health. Every day I do something for myself, so in return I feel good, and I am proud of the work I am completing.

Q: What are your favorite OHIO memories?

A: My favorite memories at OHIO are having picnics in College Green with my best friends.

Q: What’s the one thing you would tell a new OHIO student not to miss?

A: One thing I would tell a new OHIO student not to miss is the Homecoming parade!