Charleston School of Law Student Ambassadors have come together with the purpose of sharing their own experience with you. During your visit to campus, they volunteer their time to show you around the school, answer all of your questions and provide you with a firsthand account of life as a Charleston School of Law student. You are encouraged to reach out to them if you ever have any questions or simply want to chat about law school.
Name: Daven Barnett
Hometown: Waxhaw, N.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Virginia State University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: If you want a school that is like family, this is the place to be.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: Everyone is here to make this journey easier.
How to find you on social media: @_davenloren on Instagram
Name: Sherman Brown
Hometown: Atlanta, Ga.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Georgia State University
Interests/Interesting Fact: I’ve been cutting hair since the 9th grade.
Name: Ally Carswell
Hometown: Woodbridge, Va.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Virginia Tech
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The professors. Every single professor is not only extremely knowledgeable, but they are very passionate about teaching the law. Their doors are always open and they will sit with you and make sure you understand the material.
How to find you on social media: @acarswell22 on Instagram
Name: Sarah Cooper
Hometown: Charleston, S.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Clemson University
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The tight-knit community and how much it feels like a family that wants the best for you.
How to find you on social media: @sarah_cooper99 on Instagram
Name: Sydney Denninger
Hometown: Simsbury, Conn.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: University of Florida
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Take advantage of all the opportunities this law school has to offer!
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The community of students and professors and the feeling of mutual respect. Professors do not take advantage for a second the opportunity to teach us, and I feel lucky to have them.
How to find you on social media: @_squidthesyd_ on Instagram
Name: Grace Gendron
Hometown: Washington, MO
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Missouri State University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Just breathe! They will show you everything you need to know and will not hide the ball from you.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The community! The professors are great in and outside of class and we truly are like family here!
How to find you on social media: @itsamazinggrace_ on Instagram
Name: Jazmyne Gleaton
Hometown: Miami, Fl./Atlanta, Ga.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Kennesaw State University
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: I love how we are a big family! Everyone is always willing to help!
How to find you on social media: @jaz.mynee on Instagram and @jaz.myneee on TikTok
Name: Cade Gossett
Hometown: Centre, Ala.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: University of Alabama
Interests/Interesting Fact: I have a cat named West Ashley after where we found him. Alabama football, exploring Charleston, sports, fishing.
Name: Laura Graves
Hometown: Murfreesboro, Tenn.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Mid-America Christian University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: If you are a changing careers, entering school with a family, or beginning law school after a gap between undergrad and now, I can relate to and assist you!
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: I have been impressed with the accessibility of the professors. Each one has been kind, willing to help, and cares about student success.
Name: Anna Katherine Gregory
Hometown: Macon, Ga.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: University of Georgia
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The environment. Everyone I have encountered at Charleston Law has been happy to help me grow and learn.
Name: Gianna Guarino
Hometown: Patchogue, N.Y.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: St. John’s University
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The faculty. Everyone is open to helping and talking you through anything that comes up, educationally or professionally, and everyone has an open door even if they aren’t your direct professor, advisor, etc.
How to find you on social media: @gguar_12 on Instagram
Name: Ali Guild
Hometown: Mooresville, N.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: The Citadel
One thing you want to share with prospective students: My experience coming back to school after taking time off after I graduated from college.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The open-door policy of the professors and their absolute passion about helping us succeed.
How to find you on social media: @ali_guild13 on Instagram
Name: Kelsey Haslam
Hometown: St. George, Utah
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Southern Utah University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Law school is all-consuming, but there is still time for fun! On the weekends, my husband and I love to travel, explore, try new restaurants, read (in addition to the case books), and play with our dog.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: I love the sense of belonging within the school. From early in the application process through the school year, the faculty, student body, and community have welcomed me with open arms. The professors and faculty here have an open-door policy – they actually want you to come and succeed. My teachers know me personally and do everything they can to help me become a good person as well as an accomplished lawyer someday. I also love the friends I have made here.
How to find you on social media: @haslam.kelsey on Instagram
Name: Owen Hess
Hometown: Martha’s Vineyard, Mass.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Florida State University
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The friendliness of everyone from the security guards, to professors, to students continues to make my day. I look forward to coming to the school, not only for class, but to study in my free time and to interact with others at the school.
How to find you on social media:@odhess on Instagram and Twitter
Name: Robert Howard
Hometown: Charleston, S.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: University of Central Florida
One thing you want to share with prospective students: As an older student and one beginning a second career (my first being in the military), I have a unique perspective. Humility, commitment, discipline, and open-mindedness are a few characteristics I believe everyone needs to become a successful student.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: Academically – the accessibility of the professors. Aesthetically – the city of Charleston is a phenomenal location.
Name: Shane Hursh
Hometown: Fairbanks, Alaska
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Azusa Pacific University
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The culture. Everyone in this school – from administrators, faculty, and students – sees you as a valuable person, will assist you in your endeavors, and route you on in your career path.
How to find you on social media: @shane1hursh on Instagram
Name: Corey James
Hometown: Portland, Ore.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Portland State University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: My passion is to work in the Solicitor’s office and specialize in special victims cases.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: Hands down the professors. I never felt like a number in a classroom because professors take the time to know you. I always felt like I could walk into any professor’s office and they would help me. I have been grateful to have professors who push me, know my abilities, and help me thrive as a law student and also a future attorney.
How to find you on social media: @2_jamezz on Instagram
Name: Morgan Kephart
Hometown: Charleston, S.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Francis Marion University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Never be afraid to try something new or to go out of your way to meet new people! You never know what amazing opportunities will arise or what unforgettable moments will occur when you do. But never forget your comfort zone either… it is your comfort zone for a reason, and there is nothing wrong with retreating to it when you need to. Call your mom, snuggle with your pet, get on a boat. Whatever you need to do in order to get back to you… do it.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The close-knit environment and comfortable atmosphere. Professors get to know you, not just your student ID number. The school has a ton of opportunities to network due to the inevitability of meeting everyone.
How to find you on social media: @morgankephart_ on Instagram
Name: Mariam Khalil
Hometown: Spartanburg, S.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Wofford College
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Get ready for a challenging yet exciting time as you start law school in Charleston!
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The faculty truly does everything they can to help you and see you succeed!
How to find you on social media: @mar_khalil on Instagram
Name: Kennedy Kimball
Hometown: Gilbert/Chandler, Ariz.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Arizona State University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: I’m originally from Arizona and had not been to Charleston until I packed up my car and drove across the country to attend law school. This was the scariest but most rewarding choice I have ever made. Trust me, it can seem scary to leave the comfortable and familiar situations at the time, but it is the best decision and one you will not regret. As my prior Trial Advocacy Board professor, Professor Kiel, would always say, “Get comfortable being uncomfortable.” This profession will push you out of your comfort zone!
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The community of students and professors feels like a family. From being at ASU where you feel like a number and it won’t be noticed if you miss class, to Charleston Law, where the class size is small and the professors know everyone’s name. It is a huge and wonderful difference. There have been several times when a professor has asked at the beginning of class where an absent student is and make sure that everything is okay with them. These are the small but powerful differences that make our law school the great school it is.
How to find you on social media: @kennedy.rae10 on Instagram
Name: Julia Lambert
Hometown: New Boston, N.H.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Stetson University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Law school is hard, but it is SO worth it – especially when you have everyone in your corner! At Charleston Law, everyone is rooting for you and will exceed all expectations in making sure all your needs are met by giving the necessary resources for success.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The availability of professors and the environment. Any time I have a question, I can walk into a professor’s office, and they will not let me leave until I understand. The faculty, staff, and students are all so kind and welcoming. I would not want to be in any other environment while in the rigorous study of law.
How to find you on social media: @juliaclambertt on Instagram
Name: Mitchell Lyle
Hometown: Roanoke, Va.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: East Tennessee State University
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The entire school is invested in your success and wellbeing.
How to find you on social media: @mitchell.lyle1 on Instagram and @j.mitchelllyle on LinkedIn
Name: Denasia Mahome
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Ohio University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: I am from out of state and have lived both very close to the school (downtown), along with living farther away from the school (N. Charleston); I have all the pros and cons about housing!
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: I love how easy it is to connect with the professors. They absolutely adore their students and will help us learn any way we can, which includes visiting them at their office hours.
How to find you on social media: @Denasia_mahome on Instagram
Name: Yulemi Martinez
Hometown: Richmond, Va.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: University of Mary Washington
One thing you want to share with prospective students: As a minority woman, I remember how beneficial it was to be able to connect another minority woman as she understood my concerns and could relate to my background.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The endless opportunities and community of students, professors, and alumni that support you through law school. Also the central location in downtown is great!
How to find you on social media: @yulemi_m on Instagram and @yulemim on TikTok
Name: Deanna McGee
Hometown: Howell, N.J.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: University of Alabama
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Going through the law school admissions process as an out-of-state student, it was important to me to choose somewhere I felt at home. The Charleston School of Law community has been just that. I have been able to form connections with students and staff that have reassured me that taking a chance and moving away from home was beyond worth it.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The sense of community. Every staff member, professor, and student are genuinely encouraging and supportive of one another.
How to find you on social media: @deanna_mcgee on Instagram
Name: Simisola Ojo
Hometown: Brooklyn, N.Y.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Penn State University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: You will be more than okay if you believe and trust in yourself. You’ve gotten this far, so don’t doubt your abilities. Comparison is the thief of joy, so try to remain centered and determined to do your best without getting distracted by those around you. Identify and hone in on your time management skills and study habits, as they will be your best recipe for success. Most of all, take care of yourself! Indulge in your hobbies and the things that make you happy, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed and need a mental break. No one’s journey in law school looks the same, but as long as you ensure that your path to getting through the process is clear and focused, you will be able to rejoice with all your classmates when you reach the finish line!
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The community feeling within the school. I love that I am surrounded by a tight-knit group of focused and ambitious individuals who are striving to do well in their futures and be the best for their communities. I also appreciate that the school has smaller classes and an amazing and distinguished faculty that I can get to know on a personal level and build professional relationships with. Most importantly, I feel inspired walking the campus each day and seeing so many brilliant and supportive women that encourage each other to rising to the top. That’s a feeling that will never get old.
How to find you on social media: @simi.pdf on Instagram
Name: Morgan Overly
Hometown: St. Simons Island, Ga.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Georgia College & State University
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The professors are amazing and always willing to help students understand the material.
How to find you on social media: @meoverly on Instagram
Name: Aspasia Padgiotis
Hometown: Ashburn, Va.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Purdue University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Law school is very intimidating, but don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you are confused, you can be sure you are not the only one. Be curious and find people to build your community; don’t try to do it alone!
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The community. The open-door policy with professors and teaching assistants is no joke. Everyone in the school, professor or student, wants you to succeed, and the community that you build will help you through it all!
How to find you on social media: @aspassiiaa on Instagram or @Aspasia Padgiotis on LinkedIn
Name: Zachary Pairman
Hometown: Bluffton, S.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
One thing you want to share with prospective students: South Carolina often gets a bad rap, but the misconception associated with it is quickly squashed when you visit and immerse yourself within the community. I also recommend getting involved with your community, it is very nice to have an outlet and friends outside of the law school.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: Southern hospitality permeates throughout the school. Professors, administrators, and other students are always happy to lend a helping hand or to talk about any topic. It is extremely easy to build relationships with professors and fellow students as everyone has a shared commitment to knowledge and growth.
How to find you on social media: @zackpairman on Instagram
Name: Matthew Presley
Hometown: Lookout Mountain, Ga.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
One thing you want to share with prospective students: I have a unique perspective as a student who attended another law school. I have been blown away by the contrast of Charleston Law from my prior law school experience, which was toxically competitive.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: I really appreciate the open-door policy and the expertise of the professors. Everyone in this institution is very approachable and eager to help.
How to find you on social media: @matthew_presley on Instagram
Name: Jessica Price
Hometown: Fairview, N.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Appalachian State University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: I’m interested in practicing transactional law, specifically in the corporate law field. I’m a member of Transactional Law Team and Law Review if anyone has questions about joining.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The location is one of my favorite aspects of attending school here. I love getting to experience downtown Charleston and surrounding areas while working towards my J.D. I also love the community at the law school. The professors all seem to love what they do and value the school, which is evident in the classroom.
How to find you on social media: @jessicaannprice on Instagram
Name: Caroline Raine
Hometown: Birmingham, Ala.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: University of Alabama
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: Professor accessibility, the smaller class size, and the congenial atmosphere within the law school. Although law school is inherently competitive, Charleston Law does not foster a competitive environment. I have felt supported by faculty and classmates throughout my time here.
How to find you on social media: @carolineraine on Instagram and @caroline-b-raine on LinkedIn
Name: Rachel Rittelmann
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: Walsh University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: When you come here, you are joining a family here at Charleston Law.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: Charleston Law never lets you feel like you are alone; from the professors to the students to the staff, everyone wants to see you succeed.
How to find you on social media: @Rachh_ritt on Instagram and @Rach_Ritt2 on Twitter
Name: Katelyn Simmons
Hometown: Athens, Ga.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Georgia College and State University
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Take advantage of every opportunity presented to you and don’t be afraid to do things outside your comfort zone and interest. The classes, organizations, events, etc. that I was the most hesitant and doubtful about have been the ones that have made the biggest positive impact in my experience thus far.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: Whether it is faculty, fellow students, or alumni, there is always going to be someone at the law school willing to support and help you throughout the law school journey.
Name: Elizabeth Sutton
Hometown: La Grange, N.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: UNC-Wilmington
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The accessibility to professors and how willing each and every one of the professors are to help out their students.
Name: Victoria Tappan
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Mich.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: University of Pittsburgh
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: My professors and being able to complete law school in Charleston!
How to find you on social media: @Tori0bug on Instagram
Name: Breanna Thomas
Hometown: Walton, KY
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: University of Kentucky
Interests/Interesting Fact: I am the 2022-2023 SBA Secretary, secretary of Phi Delta Phi, and member of the Business Law Society and Women in Law.
Name: Taylor Tugya
Hometown: Boise, Idaho
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2021
Undergraduate: The Citadel
One thing you want to share with prospective students: I am a non-traditional student who spent nine years in the workforce before coming to law school, and I have a three-year-old daughter.
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: I really enjoy the accessibility of my professors and the small class sizes, which together create an intimate feel in the classroom. All of my professors know my name and have been very accommodating throughout the semester.
Name: Delaney Tyson
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pa.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: University of Pittsburgh
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The people! Law school is known as being such a cutthroat place, but here everyone looks out for each other and is willing to help each other out. Also, J.D. Dogs!!
How to find you on social media: @Delaney_tyson on Instagram
Name: Susanna Wallinger
Hometown: Columbia, S.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2025
Undergraduate: University of South Carolina
One thing you want to share with prospective students: Go to Open House and reach out to other people you have heard are potentially going to Charleston Law!
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: The fact the school feels very small; i.e. I get the attention I need from my professors and they all know me by name. Contrast this with undergrad where I don’t think a single professor knew my name.
How to find you on social media: @susannawallinger on Instagram
Name: Emily White
Hometown: Spartanburg, S.C.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: University of South Carolina Upstate
Interests/Interesting Fact: When I am not studying for law school you can find me and my friends at the beach trying to catch a wave and relax.
Name: Julia Wilson
Hometown: Cazenovia, N.Y.
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024
Undergraduate: Ohio State University
Favorite thing about Charleston School of Law: Charleston School of Law is unique in many ways. But to name only a few, the environment here is such that everyone, from professors all the way to administrative staff, will come to know you. You will never walk the halls without receiving a smile or a greeting, no matter who it’s from. The support I feel from not only them but also my peers has been a game-changer. I have never dreaded coming to campus and I have never felt that I was alone on my law school island. The amount I’ve grown as a young professional in the past four semesters is sweeping and I owe it all to this school.
How to find you on social media: @julia.l.wilson on Instagram
Looking for your people? Get connected on campus through our student organizations.
The Charleston School of Law is a vibrant, exciting learning environment. Check out what’s happening on campus.
There is no better way to get to know a law school than to visit. We encourage you to meet our faculty and students, and see Charleston.
