News

Registration for the 2024 Weldon Mentorship Program is now open! The program is designed as a system of support and guidance aimed at helping students and recent graduates connect with alumni who can share their experience and insights.

Third-year JD/MBA student Sashin Narayan and alumnus Kevin Fernandes (’15) were paired together as part of the 2023 program. Read what they each had to say about their experience.

Mentee – Sashin Narayan, 3L JD/MBA Student

Why was it important to you to participate in the Weldon Mentorship Program? 

I was looking to connect with someone who could help me navigate an uncertain time in my legal education. Transitioning from a predominantly virtual 1L year in 2020 to a hiatus from the Weldon community while pursuing my MBA in 2021, posed challenges. It disrupted the continuity of learning typically gleaned from interacting with classmates, particularly with regards to the daunting 2L recruit process. I recognized that a mentor could provide guidance and insight at this critical time. The Weldon Mentorship Program offered a unique opportunity to bridge this gap by pairing me with a seasoned lawyer who provided practical career advice tailored to my circumstances and a deeper understanding of what practicing law post-graduation entails.

What are the benefits of having a mentor?

Discovering that I had been paired with Kevin was an exciting moment for me! As a Partner and Chair of the Student Committee at Keyser Mason Ball, LLP, I knew he would be able to offer insights about law school, the legal profession, and life in general. It also provided me with a sense of reassurance, knowing that there was someone from Dal who could relate to my experiences on multiple levels. His proximity to my hometown of Mississauga, coupled with both of us being executive members of the Business Law Association of Dalhousie (a society that Kevin co-founded), and our mutual passion for hockey, immediately forged a strong bond between us. As I approach the conclusion of my final semester of law school, I can attest that Kevin has consistently gone above and beyond. Whether it be over the phone, via email, or in person, his guidance has not only provided practical and actionable advice, but also unwavering support whenever I needed it most.

Why should other students consider getting involved?

The Weldon Mentorship Program gives students the opportunity to connect with experienced professionals who provide invaluable insights, guidance, and support, enhancing academic and professional development. The program also fosters a sense of community and collaboration, allowing students to exchange ideas and build their professional network. Moreover, mentors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, offering unique perspectives on navigating law school and the legal profession. Involvement in the Weldon Mentorship Program is undoubtedly a worthwhile investment in your future success.  

Mentor – Kevin Fernandes (’15), Partner, Keyser Mason Ball, LLP

Why was it important to you to participate in the Weldon Mentorship Program?

A number of lawyers in the Weldon family have mentored me and supported my growth as a young professional. Their only ask of me, and the only ask I have for mentees, is to pay it forward to future alumni. To me, this truly embodies the Weldon spirit.

What are the benefits of mentoring a law student?

Mentoring law students helps us to develop better-tailored continuing education programming for our summer/articling students and young associates. It also helps to contextualize that the practice of law is a journey with development that spans a lawyer’s entire career.

Why should other alumni consider getting involved?

Participating in the Weldon Mentorship Program helps me to learn about new areas of law while remaining connected to the law school and involved in the Schulich Law community. For these reasons, I believe that other Weldon alumni would benefit and enjoy being involved with the program.