Ndidi Okeagu chose MSU College of Law for its strong clinical programs. She said her experiences with the programs have made her a stronger advocate. “The Law College provides students with tools to succeed. Its strengths lie in the diversity of the student body, clinical programs, externship opportunities, and the caring nature of the professors, faculty and staff,” Ndidi said.

Ndidi is the first-generation daughter of Nigerian immigrants, so immigration has always played a role in her life. As a participant in the Immigration clinic, she assisted clients in their efforts to obtain relief for permanent residency in the U.S. “I was able to utilize my passion in fighting for immigrants’ rights,” she said. “My experiences at the immigration clinic were also instrumental in obtaining my summer job at Yale Legal Services Organization.”

In addition to participating in the Immigration Clinic, Ndidi used her time at MSU to hone her oral advocacy skills as a board member of the Moot Court Trial and Advocacy team. “At the Puerto Rico Trial Advocacy Competition, my team won second place in the competition out of twelve teams and I was recognized for a perfect score,” she said.

Ndidi also participates in student organizations, which have allowed her to travel across the country and expand her network. “As a regional board member for the Midwest Region of the BLSA, I traveled to St. Louis, Missouri where the MSU Mock Trial Team won first place in the MWBLSA Regional Mock Trial Competition and later won first place in the national competition in Atlanta, Georgia,” she said. “As BLSA chapter president, I was also able to serve my community through participating in several community service activities, including hosting an Anti-Bullying Workshop at the Boys & Girls Club.”

She said that, although law school is challenging, the positive experiences and fond memories have made it worthwhile. “There are great professors, especially Professor Deanne Lawrence. I spent hours in her office, where she answered my questions and simultaneously challenged me to do more research. Faculty and staff go the extra mile to provide a strong academic environment. The quality of students here makes the academic environment a collaborative one. They selflessly give their time and resources, and continuously go out of their way to assist anyone,” she said.