My name is Juliette and I am a French student studying at Stetson Law from Toulouse Capitole 1 University. I have been studying (and living) at Stetson College of Law for 6 weeks now and I am really having the time of my life.
For the purpose of this essay, I have listed the reasons why it's so special to study law at Stetson University College of Law.
What is studying at Stetson Law like for an International Student?
As an international student, other Stetson Law students, university staff, and professors are very kind and understanding. People actually care about you and your success.
Professors encourage you to meet them during their office hours so you can explain your fears or simply ask for clarification. And, most importantly I believe, students become family.
What is the Stetson Law Campus like?
There is an actual campus. (Like in the movies!) There are dorms, a café, a laundry, a barbecue, a kitchen, a swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts and even a gym. It is nothing like our French universities that are limited to lecture theatres.
Furthermore, the architecture of the Stetson Law’s campus makes it even more exotic. Indeed, Stetson University College of Law occupies the historic resort Hotel Rolyat established in the 1920s. The architecture is stunning.
Buildings and gardens are maintained with an extreme care. This is, I believe, what shocked me the most (in a good way, of course!) because it is very different from what French students are used to back home. Having such a work environment is a blast!!
How does Stetson Law differ from international schools?
The education system in the US is very different than the one in France. Stetson classes are more like “tutorials” than “lectures”. The professor does not preach during class. Instead the professor challenges the student to see the case from all angles.
Also, you will never find five hundred students in a lecture theatre. On the contrary, classes are made up of maximum fifty student, and often less. This favors participation, discussion and debate.
So far I love the people, the location and the classroom experience at Stetson. I think the different method of teaching and the practical hands on nature of education here in the US will strengthen my skills as a legal professional. I am confident that I am going to have a great year!
