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Congratulations to the Schulich School of Law’s Class of 2023! 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 George Philp.

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

The world was changing so fast in early 2020 when I was deciding whether and where to study law. I completed my undergrad in Nova Scotia at Acadia University and knew Halifax to be such a wonderful city and community. With all the uncertainty around us, I knew Schulich Law would be a great fit for me. I'd heard so many great things about the school, and how fun the learning and social experience is, from speaking with students and alumni—all of which turned out to be the case.

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

Throughout my time at Schulich Law, I served as the VP Finance of the Environmental Law Students' Society, a member of the Bursary and Scholarship Committee, and a board member of the Law Students' Society. I was an academic peer mentor to 1L students, a peer tutor in the IB&M Initiative, and a pro bono student working to support employment opportunities for persons with convictions. 

This year I also represented Dalhousie at the Bowman National Tax Moot and participated in the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal Placement and a Public Law Placement with the Nova Scotia Access to Justice & Law Reform Institute. 

What is your favourite law school memory?

How can I pick just one? 

My favourite academic memories include working at the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal during my 2L summer. The opportunity to observe hearings, research developments in the law, and discuss ongoing cases while building relationships with the clerks and justices was an incredibly formative experience. This role also instigated my passion for criminal and public law.

I also enjoyed participating in the Bowman National Tax Moot. Although challenging, the experience gave me so much confidence in legal writing and the ability to speak in front of, as well as answer tough questions from, judges. 

My favourite personal memories include the Fall and Winter Semester Study Breaks during 1L. While pandemic restrictions meant we couldn't travel outside of Nova Scotia, it also meant our law school friends were all in the province together for cottage weekends, hikes, and nights out on Argyle Street. 

What will you miss most about Schulich Law?

The great part about being a truly national law school was the opportunity to meet so many incredible classmates from across Canada. The downside is that everyone ends up everywhere after graduation. But I guess now I've got friends whose apartments I can crash at when I visit other cities (thanks in advance, Emma and Grace). 

What are your post-graduation plans?

Starting in June, I'm articling with the Public Prosecutions Division at the Department of Justice and Public Safety (aka "the Crown") in St. John's, N.L. Following articles, I hope to continue my career in the areas of criminal and public law.