A third-year law student at Mercer University, Walker Lee, is driven by a passion to assist others in preparing for challenging circumstances. Reflecting on his journey into the legal field, Lee shared, "I was not the person who, for their entire life, planned to attend law school. Rather, the calling came to me over time."
Lee's interest in law was sparked while conducting research for his master's thesis in criminal justice at Valdosta State University. Delving into topics such as perceptions of immigrations and federal Indian law, Lee's academic pursuits solidified his desire to pursue a legal career. He explained, "I am very interested in practicing estate planning. I enjoy helping others prepare for the difficult times in life."
Aside from his academic endeavors, Lee is actively involved in various leadership roles within the legal community. He serves as the American Bar Association chair at Mercer Law, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping policy recommendations for students. Lee's involvement extends to organizations such as the Student Bar Association, the Rural Law Student Association, and the Mercer Advocacy Council mock trial and arbitration teams.
Choosing Mercer Law for its personalized approach and esteemed legal writing program, Lee emphasized the value of the close-knit community at the institution. As a first-generation college and law student, Lee expressed gratitude for the supportive faculty and administration at Mercer, noting their unwavering dedication to student success.
In addition to his legal pursuits, Lee has also found fulfillment in teaching sociology and criminal justice courses at various universities across the United States. Despite the demands of law school, Lee's strong time management skills have enabled him to balance his academic responsibilities with his passion for teaching.
Looking ahead, Lee aspires to make a positive impact in the legal field, particularly in areas such as estate planning and federal Indian law. His journey at Mercer Law has not only equipped him with the necessary skills to excel as an attorney but has also provided him with invaluable experiences and lifelong friendships.
Editor's Note: This article is based on a story originally featured in the Fall 2023 edition of the Mercer Lawyer magazine.