Soldier On: Boot Camp to Law School—Go Make the World a Better Place!

Law students across the country recently celebrated graduations. I am one of those excited graduates. Excited to finish. Excited to have experienced a life-changing opportunity. Excited for my future.

I arrived three years ago, uncertain as to what lay ahead, and not truly aware of the energy it would take to complete law school. And yet I accomplished my goal, as did thousands of graduates this year.

As I contemplate my future as a new attorney, I want to share 10 snippets of wisdom I learned in the military. I hope these words inspire you and guide you as you step out to begin the next chapter of your lives.

You are stronger than you realize.
Bounce back when you get knocked down.
Alone you can only do so much; together you can do so much more.
Fight hard for your cause. But fight fair.
Stand brave when you are scared.
Stretch beyond your comfort zone – until it hurts.
Be humble when you win.
When people ask what you do, tell them: “Whatever it takes.”
Remember to thank those who helped you get here.
And finally . . . Be badass every day!

Congratulations class of 2016. You’ve earned it. Now go make the world a better place!

Julie Cummings is one of Ms. JD’s 2016 Writers in Residence. Her monthly column, Soldier On: Boot Camp to Law School translates valuable military skills into strategies for succeeding in law school.

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