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Congratulations to the Schulich School of Law’s Class of 2021! In the coming weeks, we’ll feature Q&As with graduating law students who will reflect on their time at Weldon. Today we're talking to Maria Rizzetto.

Why did you want to attend the Schulich School of Law?

While I’m pretty sure I would have pursued law somewhere else if I had to, Schulich Law was my top choice to the point it was the only school I originally applied to. This is because Nova Scotia is home and I was well aware of the amazing lawyers Schulich Law has produced in all capacities over the years — two of which are my father and grandfather. 

In what ways were you involved with the law school community?

At Schulich Law I was the rep for my section on the Law Students’ Society then took on the role of Chief Returning Officer with the LSS for my final two years, which entailed running two elections from start to finish each year. I also acted as a member of the Judicial Board for the Dalhousie Student Union in 1L and 2L, then was appointed to chair in 3L. I did pro bono work with the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society alongside volunteering at the Tenant’s Rights Project at Dalhousie Legal Aid. I also sat on the Career Development Committee and was a founding member of the Dalhousie Trial and Advocacy Society. A lot of my bigger involvements are within the broader Halifax community, such as serving on housing and communications boards and volunteering as a professional mentor with ISANS. 

What is your favourite law school memory?

It is almost impossible to pick just one. We had a lot of fun, didn’t we? My favourite memories would have to be the ones our team made when participating in Law Games in 1L and 2L (where we absolutely dominated both years). I don’t enjoy the memory of tearing my ACL in 2L though...

What will you miss most about Schulich Law?

What I will miss most about Schulich Law is running into fellow students, professors, or faculty and stopping for quick chats about life and school. I especially liked when those interactions turned into coffees and maybe a beer or two. That said, I’ve been missing this since we went into lockdown in March 2020. 

What are your post-graduation plans?

I am moving back home to Cape Breton with my fiancé and will be articling with Sampson McPhee. They have an exceptional group of both experienced and promising young lawyers that I can’t wait to join and learn from. I am looking forward to being closer to both our families and enjoying the summer reexploring the island. If you’re headed that way, make sure to shoot me a message!