The Career & Professional Development Center (CPDC) has been hard at work supporting Texas Tech Law students, bringing practitioners and alumni back to campus, and opening doors to meaningful legal careers. From career paths in military service, prosecution, and defense to hands-on externship opportunities, CPDC continues to be a steady presence for students at every stage of their professional journey.
CPDC supports students from day one, providing individualized guidance that prepares them to make confident career decisions. Through one-on-one advising, employer outreach, and preparation for clerkships, public service, and private practice, the Center helps ensure Texas Tech Law graduates are well prepared to enter the profession. Year-round programming continues to strengthen the bridge between classroom learning and meaningful legal careers.
U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps Information Session | January 21
CPDC hosted Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Elder for an engaging discussion on careers in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps. LTC Elder described JAG as a full-service legal practice where attorneys quickly gain hands-on experience in constitutional law, litigation, and advising military leadership, both domestically and abroad.
Students learned about paid internships, post-graduate opportunities, training, compensation, and the application process, with time built in for one-on-one conversations. “I really enjoyed speaking with a currently serving U.S. Army JAG Officer,” said 2L Russ Jackson. “LTC Elder was able to answer all my questions about what a career in JAG involves.”
How to Get a Prosecution Job | January 22
Texas Tech Law alumnus Dale Smith '02 led a CPDC workshop on careers in prosecution, offering students a candid look at work in a district attorney’s office. Smith walked students through the realities of prosecution, covering office structure, ethical obligations, trial roles, teamwork, and career mobility across misdemeanor, felony, civil, and appellate divisions.
He emphasized that success as a prosecutor is rooted in empathy, professionalism, and dedication to justice. “The Career Services Center brought in a representative from the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office today, and it was extremely informative,” said 1L Hannah Williams. “He was a great resource on what it’s like to be a prosecutor.”
Regional Externship Program Information Session | January 28
Professor Dwight McDonald and Assistant Dean Kayla Wimberley led an informative session on the Regional Externship Program, outlining placement opportunities, application procedures, and program expectations. Guest speakers from the Texas Tech University General Counsel’s Office and the Office of Student Legal Services highlighted the hands-on nature of externships and the real-world experience students can expect.
“I thought it was really informative and helpful for anybody who wants to do the program,” shared 2L Joseph Dryer, echoing the enthusiasm many students expressed about the opportunity for immersive professional development.
How to Get a Criminal Defense Job | January 29
Closing out a busy month, CPDC partnered with Texas Tech Law alumna Kayla Staley '22 for a candid discussion on careers in criminal defense and public defense. Staley offered an honest look at the demands and rewards of serving as a public defender, emphasizing resilience, compassion, and the critical role defenders play in safeguarding justice for indigent clients.
She also shared practical advice on preparing for a defense career, encouraging early involvement in advocacy organizations and hands-on experience. Her message resonated strongly with students considering public interest and defense work, reinforcing that CPDC and the Tech Law alumni network continue to support graduates long after commencement.
Through these programs and many others, the Career & Professional Development Center continues to connect Texas Tech Law students with opportunities, mentors, and alumni who exemplify the profession at its best. If this month is any indication, CPDC isn’t just busy—they’re building futures.