WHY Mock Trial?
Mock Trial teaches students how to be leaders, oral advocates, and writers. Students are given opportunities to take on leadership positions on the Executive Board, as Captains, or as Team Selectors. As competitors, our members travel across the United States- from Michigan to Philadelphia to Los Angeles- to compete in trials where they practice their oral advocacy skills. Through practices, students are given the chance to use their rhetorical skills when writing directs, speeches, and cross examinations.
What do our alumni say?
"Mock Trial helped me learn how to advocate for my points, critically think, and work in teams. It also gave me leadership skills, public speaking skills, and allowed me to get comfortable when talking with experienced people" -Josh Simmons, Consultant for IBM
"Mock Trial prepared me for law school trial team and gave me real life courtroom skills. Additionally, I improved my public speaking skills and was provided introductory knowledge to litigation" - Ryan Ivins, Law Student at Temple University "Mock Trial was the best part of my college experience. It prepared me for the real world more than any other college class. Speaking, critical thinking, problem solving skills, and ability to handle constructive criticism are just a few of the things I can attribute mock trial. Also, the friendships and connections you form with these people stand the test of time and distance." - Sarah Ulmer, Creative Copywriter for Toll Brothers |
"Mock trial exposed me to the practice of law, and I can state with absolute certainty that I would not be attending law school if not for mock trial. For anyone considering law school, I think mock trial is a uniquely advantageous extracurricular activity. Multiple law school admissions interviewers singled out my participation in mock trial as an important positive feature of my undergraduate resume. Even for those not considering law school, it allows you to improve your public speaking and leadership skills, two competencies that are invaluable in most professional settings but not routinely practiced in most academic programs." - John Veiszlemlein, Law Student at NYU
"At the end of the day, Mock Trial gives you a level of hands-on experience. You get an idea for what you're getting into, if you care about it, and if you have a talent for it. It's also a great place to meet some like-minded people!" -Sydney Kotalik, Law Student at William & Mary |