Meet Tamra Kenebrew, 2L, and learn more about her story at South Texas Law in this Student Spotlight by the Career Resource Center.
Q: Why did you choose to attend South Texas College of Law Houston?
A: I chose South Texas College of Law because of its outstanding alumni network. As I contemplated my decision to go to law school, I was pleasantly surprised at the number of individuals I came across in the area who went to South Texas Law and were so willing to offer their time to answer any questions I had and/or provide overall mentorship to me throughout my journey.
Q: Where are you working next summer?
A: I will be a summer associate with Vinson & Elkins in Houston, Texas. Vinson & Elkins is a prominent international law firm that provides a wide range of legal services in corporate and business law, mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, energy transactions, environmental law, intellectual property, litigation, tax, real estate, and regulatory compliance, among others.
Q: How did you secure that employment opportunity?
A: I went through South Texas Law’s OCI process.
Q: How did the Career Resource Center (CRC) help you successfully navigate the recruitment process?
A: The Career Resource Center was an invaluable resource throughout the entire process. They have provided me with one-on-one counseling sessions, mock interviews, resume/cover letter workshops and networking events that have all helped to enhance my interview skills and confidence. And, whenever the interviewing phase became a little overwhelming, they provided free hugs and candy!
Q: What are your career goals for the future?
A: During my summer with Vinson & Elkins, I hope to enhance my legal research, writing, and analytical skills and to use the opportunity to explore different areas of law to figure out which one aligns best with my interests and skills.
Q: What advice would you share with future generation of students going through recruitment?
A: As a part-time student, I cannot stress the need to START early. Part-time students typically have other commitments such as work or family responsibilities. Balancing these obligations while searching for opportunities and preparing applications can be time-consuming. Starting the recruitment process earlier allows part-time students more time to explore opportunities, build their resumes, attend networking events, conferences, and workshops, and secure valuable legal experiences that will enhance their chances of success in a very competitive job market.
Q: Which professors have influenced you and or your career path the most?
A: Professor Val Ricks and Professor Daniel Correa have both been invaluable to me on my journey through law school. From the minute I stepped into Professor Ricks’ class, he challenged me to appreciate the law not as a student, but as a seasoned attorney interpreting it for a critical case. Professor Daniel Correa is so down to Earth and genuinely cares about his students. Although I am sure he has taught hundreds of students in his career, he has this unique ability to remember everyone’s name and takes the time to give insights into matters he has experienced in his career and offer ideas as to how to avoid them and/or how to tackle them head on.
Q: What student organizations have you been involved with?
A: Phi Delta Phi, Oil & Gas Law Students, Black Law Students Association, and Criminal Law Society.
Q: Beyond the Career Resource Center, how has the law school community supported your growth?
A: Although law school by nature is designed to be stressful, the STCL environment takes away a lot of that expectation as everyone involved with South Texas Law is so friendly and exudes good energy. Everyone – regardless of their status or affiliation with the school – is extremely supportive and genuinely wants you to succeed.
