‘Be better tomorrow than you are today’: JD class of 2027 steps into the legal profession
September 06, 2024
As the JD class of 2027 began their collective journey into the legal profession at Western Law’s Induction Ceremony on September 3, keynote speaker Justice Charles Chang (LL.B. ’00) advised that professionalism must guide each step on their path.
“If you want to make it in the legal profession, you have to deal with every single interaction…as a professional. To me [professionalism] is not a sterile, a static, or esoteric concept. It is a real and tangible thing that guides us in deciding how we’re going to conduct ourselves from day to day,” said Justice Chang.
“It’s not a final goal or a destination or arrival that means that you’ve somehow achieved professionalism. It’s a lifelong commitment to the pursuit of being better today than you were yesterday.”
Justice Chang’s remarks supported an important function of the annual ceremony, highlighting the privileges and responsibilities that accompany a career in the legal profession. During the event, students recite and sign the Professionalism Pledge to signal their commitment to treating their classmates, professors, staff and others with civility and respect.
Becoming the face of the legal profession
Expounding on professionalism in the practice of law, Justice Chang listed competence, preparation, execution and honour as essential components. He explained that working towards professionalism requires “an inexhaustible dedication to right thinking and right doing every single moment of every single day.” Concluding his remarks, he urged students to consider the greater importance of the principle.
“Most importantly, it matters because you will be the face of the legal profession and an indispensable part of the administration of justice,” explained Justice Chang.
“How you choose to conduct yourselves in discharge of those roles will determine the public's trust in the legal profession, in the administration of justice and in the rule of law. That trust is fundamental to the free and democratic society that we have the privilege of enjoying in Canada.”
Engaging with the world in a new way
Throughout the ceremony, faculty, alumni, community and student speakers provided words of encouragement and called students to stay open as they experience the transitions and opportunities ahead. Acting Dean Andrew Botterell shared how law school fosters different ways of thinking and noted the importance of maintaining objectivity.
“You’ll learn there are frequently two or more sides to every story, you’ll appreciate that even unpopular people and unpopular causes deserve a forceful advocate,” said Botterell. “Because a society that values justice cannot be selective about the individuals it protects, it will be your job to ensure that the principles of justice do not get buried by popular opinion, political pressure or media misrepresentation.”
Ontario Bar Association President Kathryn Manning acknowledged that the uncertainty and excitement students may be feeling now is normal and will continue throughout their careers. Sharing what she would tell her younger self, she assured students that exploration is key to finding the right professional path.
“Never imagine that where you begin is where you will end up,” said Manning. “Allow room to explore all the possibilities with genuine interest and an open mind. There are so many ways to make a difference as a lawyer.”
Reflecting on his own experience at Western Law, Middlesex Law Association Treasurer Greg Willson (LL.B. ’16) encouraged students to build strong relationships with both peers and mentors.
“My small group was very collaborative, and I met many very good friends,” said Willson. “I would encourage everyone here to not take an adversarial approach but to take a collaborative approach because with collaboration we all did better."
The mosaic of Western Law
Associate Dean, Academic Chris Sherrin took to the stage to share details about the accomplishments and professional and academic backgrounds of the 198 members of the class of 2027. The class is comprised of students from 43 different disciplines of study including biochemistry, accounting, cognitive science, forensic psychology and marketing.
“It’s this variety that brings richness to the faculty and to the class,” said Sherrin.
Similarity, Student Legal Society (SLS) President Yara Ubaidat expressed sentiments about the importance of diversity and representation at the law school and in the legal profession.
At her own induction ceremony, Ubaidat envisioned taking the stage as SLS president believing “you should be the representation you want to see.” She also offered advice on being a self-advocate and navigating the academic and social sides of law school. On tackling imposter syndrome, she encouraged her peers to be confident of their rightful place in the class.
“If you’re here, you belong here,” said Ubaidat. “You’re a valuable part of the mosaic that makes up Western Law.”