Nicole Nan

Associate, Dinsmore and Shohl

2012 | Cincinnati, OH

Purdue University | Biochemistry

“My professors not only taught the curriculum extremely well, but also taught me how to study and prepare for exams. I learned to be thorough and deliberate when studying the material, preparing my assignments, and communicating with other legal professionals.”

Nicole (Sigurdson) Nan chose MSU Law because it offered an environment she felt would allow her to succeed in her academic and professional career. “The school offered several courses in the specific area of law I was interested in and also offered many extracurricular activities that would allow me to meet other students that I shared a common interest with and hone my legal skills,” she said. “Overall, I chose MSU Law based on the wide variety of opportunities available, and the friendly and open atmosphere I experienced on my visit.”

The MSU College of Law professors and her extracurricular involvement prepared her for the practice of law. “My professors not only taught the curriculum extremely well, but also taught me how to study and prepare for exams. I learned to be thorough and deliberate when studying the material, preparing my assignments, and communicating with other legal professionals,” she said. “The two years that I spent on the Michigan State Law Review were also indispensable to my legal career. I was able to improve my writing skills and have the opportunity to be a leader within the journal and my school.”

Now, as a patent lawyer, Nicole enjoys the opportunity to learn something new and interesting each day. “I am constantly exposed to innovative discoveries, cutting-edge technology, and enthusiastic inventors with each new matter. I have the opportunity to be a part of a process that ensures new products are continually developed and implemented into everyday life,” she said.

She advises current law students take summers between law school years very seriously. “I had two wonderful summer experiences at different firms in different states, but each experience gave me more insight into what I wanted out of my career and future work place,” she said. “The summer is not a time to relax after classes are over. Take that time to try different legal areas, speak to lawyers in the types of workplaces and positions you would like to have, and determine the career that appeals to you.”