Tulane Law Welcomes Class of 2028 with Oath, Orientation, and Stories of Resilience

Tulane University Law School welcomed 241 talented first-year students last week as members of the J.D. Class of 2028, launching them into a new chapter of academic and professional life with an oath of professionalism, orientation sessions, and words of encouragement from faculty and administrators. 

The incoming class reflects wide diversity in geography, experience, and ambition. Students hail from 39 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, as well as 10 other countries. They earned their undergraduate degrees from more than 100 colleges and universities, with the largest groups coming from Louisiana State University (18), the University of Texas at Austin (11), the University of Alabama (7), and Tulane itself (32, plus five more from Tulane’s 3+3 accelerated law program). 

“We are so excited to welcome these amazing students into our community,” said Dean Marcilynn Burke. “We know the future of the profession--and Tulane Law--is well in hand with these students, and we can’t wait to see what they do during the next three years and beyond.” 

As expected among any law school class, political science majors make up the largest academic background, with 50 students, but the class also includes graduates in philosophy, journalism, chemical engineering, public health, social work and even unmanned aerial systems. Among them are five veterans or active-duty service members. 

Assistant Dean of Admission David Weinberg formally opened Orientation Week, welcoming the students in Tulane’s McAlister Auditorium.  

“We are delighted you have chosen to join us,” Weinberg said. “Over the next several days, we look forward to introducing you to the Tulane Law community and helping you begin your law school career with confidence and support.” 

Weinberg noted that beyond the statistics, the Class of 2028 brings unique and memorable stories. One student produced digital content for a true crime website; another played professional volleyball in Europe. Others completed a sommelier apprenticeship in Tuscany, ran a wedding floral design business, or purchased their first home at 19. One student served as a Marine Corps rocket artillery officer before becoming a grade-school teacher. And in a personal story of admiration and humor, a student wrote to Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor at age 15, proudly telling her they had named their first car “Sonia.” 

“These stories reveal the richness of perspectives and passions that make up this class,” Weinberg said. “You arrive by different paths, but with a shared purpose and commitment to the law.” 

Before classes began, students took part in the Oath of Professionalism ceremony, administered by U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen Wells Roby ( L’87),  standing together to pledge that they would uphold the responsibilities of the legal profession. The ceremony, a Tulane tradition, is designed to mark the moment students formally step into the profession of law. 

Orientation Week also featured academic preparation sessions and introductions to the resources available at the law school. Among them is the Dean Rufus Harris Peer Fellow Program, which pairs every first-year student with a second- or third-year mentor. Peer fellows guide students through their first year, offering advice on academics, campus life and community-building. 

And our new students are eager to begin their studies. 

 “I’m most excited to meet my professors, make some connections at Tulane, and really get to know my classmates,” said first-year student Molly Mitchell.  

Another, Fahad Qazi, said his favorite part so far was meeting faculty: “Talking to them, and discovering the incredible amount of experience they have, has been great.” 

Faculty members also offered words of encouragement. Professor Ron Scalise (L’00), who teaches Civil Law, emphasized the importance of preparation and active learning. “Don’t passively engage—come prepared to ask and respond to questions in class,” he told the students. 

Professor Frédéric Sourgens (L’05), the James McCulloch Chair in Energy Law, underscored resilience and belonging.  

“Even on your worst day in your worst class, you still belong here,” Sourgens said. “You are accomplished. You’re brilliant. You are ready for what law school is going to throw at you. Just pick yourself back up and know we’re here to help.” 

Weinberg reflected on the admissions process that brought the group together. “By sharing your full, authentic selves, you have collectively created a community grounded in reflection, curiosity and engagement,” he said. “These qualities will define your time here at Tulane.” 

With the Oath of Professionalism completed and orientation underway, Tulane Law’s Class of 2028 has officially embarked on its three-year journey. Administrators, faculty and peers alike say they look forward to watching the newest members of the community grow into lawyers, leaders and advocates.