Q&A with 2024 Criminal Justice Alumna

Briana Thomas, Future Law School Graduate

Briana Thomas, alumna of the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (c/o '24), was recently accepted into West Virginia University Law School in Morgantown, WV. She caught up with us to share the news, and we invite you into the conversation.

Q: Congratulations on your acceptance to WVU Law! What inspired you to pursue a legal career?
Thank you! Certainly my desire to uphold social order and justice and to advocate for equal representation. My undergraduate experience at Florida Atlantic helped shape my path through academic exposure with courses and professors, extracurricular involvement, and my internship at Bostick Law Group, PLLC, a personal injury, probate, and estate planning law firm in Pompano Beach. After graduation, I interned at the Wawa, Inc. Corporate Headquarters in Media, Pennsylvania, as one of four legal interns.

Q: Looking back at your time in the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice, what moments or mentors had the biggest impact on your journey?
My mentors, Chandra McKinney-Clarke, a former advisor, and Dr. Lincoln Sloas. When they found out I wanted to pursue a career in law, both generously offered their insights, support, and guidance, which shaped my career trajectory. They also encouraged me to pursue the Undergraduate Research Certificate, sharing how it would enhance my ability to analyze, think critically, write and present effectively, and act ethically -- all skills required for and transferable to my legal career. In pursuing the certificate, I was also recognized as Undergraduate Researcher of the Year.

Q: What advice would you give current Criminal Justice students who are considering law school or another advanced degree?
Seek guidance and mentorship, gain practical experience, and an internship is essential because it helps you determine if a particular career path is aligned with your interests and develop transferable skills. Having the right mentor will provide you with valuable insight for planning and preparation, ensuring a good starting foundation. Gaining practical experience through an internship helps you determine if a particular career path is aligned with your interests and goals. Developing transferable skills will benefit your future endeavors, regardless of the career field you choose.

Q: Transitioning from college to law school is a big leap -- how did you prepare for the application process, and what did you learn along the way?
I utilized the FAU Testing Prep Center to begin studying for the LSAT. I also joined the LegalEEE Mentorship Program, which provided me with personalized guidance and support to successfully navigate the application process as an aspiring law student. I learned that the LSAT and admissions essays require a lot of time and patience. I also recognized the importance of researching law schools and their application requirements. By preparing early, not only did I save valuable time, but I also submitted my applications ahead of schedule, thus favorably positioning myself for early decision notifications and scholarship opportunities.

Q: What does it mean to you to represent Florida Atlantic University's alumni network as you take this next step, and how do you hope to give back in the future?
As I take this next step, I will be serving as a positive example for current students, while expanding my network, sharing insight and opportunities, and supporting the growth and success of current students. In the future, I hope to give back by continuing mentorship for students who need leverage in maneuvering the legal field and other advanced degrees.