News Archive
Meet IU McKinney Student Safari Jackson
07/10/2024
Safari Jackson is a 2L in IU McKinney’s hybrid program who is working as a summer associate at Dentons Bingham Greenebaum.
Where are you from? What year are you in law school?
I am from Indianapolis, Indiana. I just completed my first year in McKinney’s hybrid part-time program.
Any lawyers in your family? What made you decide you wanted to go to law school? And what brought you to IU McKinney in particular?
I do not have any lawyers in my family. I decided to go to law school to advance and diversify my career opportunities after working as a litigation paralegal for a couple of years.
I was drawn to IU McKinney because of its location and its alumni presence throughout the Indianapolis community. Attending law school in downtown Indianapolis has allowed the opportunity for more networking opportunities with various alumni and firms. Additionally, IU McKinney’s Hybrid Part-Time program made obtaining a J.D. possible.
What has your experience been like as a student at IU McKinney?
My experience at IU McKinney has been more than I could have expected. The continuous support from the students, staff, and professors at IU McKinney have made my experience as a law student invaluable.
What’s been the biggest adjustment you’ve had to make in your life since you started law school?
The biggest adjustment I’ve had to make in my life since I started law school has making sure I am being intentional with my time. Because I am working full-time while attending law school, the hours in each of my days are accounted for. This means that I have to map out and really be proactive with my time management, discipline, and scheduling to make sure I am able to all of my academics and social obligations.
What are you doing for your externship/internship this summer? What made you want to take part in this experience? What are you gaining from it?
I am currently working as a summer associate at Dentons Bingham Greenebaum. Working as a summer associate affords me the valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in various practices within a big law firm. Additionally, I have been able to gain experience of the mechanics of how a big firm operates.
What student groups have you been involved in?
Since my first year at IU McKinney, I have been a part of the Black Law Student Association. This upcoming year, I will serve as the organization’s treasurer. I am also a member of Phi Delta Phi.
What are your plans for after law school?
After law school, I plan to take the Indiana Bar with the hopes of becoming a corporate attorney. As a practicing corporate attorney with an enhanced understanding in business law, I plan to appropriately advise business owners and corporations of best business practices alongside helping them sustain longevity, leading to continued success.
