Mario Talerico choose MSU Law for several reasons. “First, Michigan State University has national recognition. Second, the Geoffrey Fieger Trial Practice Institute (TPI) here at MSU Law is one of the only litigation-focused certificate programs in the nation,” he said.

As a student, Mario said he received a comprehensive and practical approach to obtaining a legal education. “The majority of my professors made it a point to focus on what really is important in the legal world,” he said. “Additionally, the student atmosphere here at the Law College is fantastic. Everyone understands that it is a competitive atmosphere, but everyone also understands that the best way to succeed is to work collaboratively.”

Mario is a member of the TPI. “I wanted to get a hands-on, practical experience on how to actually practice law, rather than just understanding the substantive characteristics of specific legal fields,” Mario said. “Also, I wanted to be practice-ready when I graduate.”

Mario found his summer positions through the Career Services office. “My first summer between 1L and 2L year I worked at the Michigan Court of Appeals. I was able to work there through the Career Services Office’s yearly job fair, which helps students find jobs and externships,” he said. “The research and writing skills that I learned at the Court of Appeals will help me for years to come.”