Counseller’s Corner

From Touchdowns to Transactions: Garrett Welch’s Baylor Law School Playbook

Counseller’s Corner – Episode 8: In this episode, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with Garrett Welch, a 3L with a love for contract clauses and competitive flag football. Garrett shares how his background in finance and business led him to the transactional side of the law, why tax law is (surprisingly) fun, and how Baylor’s competition teams helped him bridge theory and practice. They also talk studying strategies, intramural sports, and Garrett’s post-grad plans in Houston. It’s a conversation about finding your lane—and running it like it’s 4th and goal.

London Roots, Texas Trials: 1L Tochi Okoli's Path to Criminal Law

1L Tochi Okoli joins Dean Jeremy Counseller to share her unconventional journey from London to Baylor Law School, including the emotional weight of working on a death penalty case, and why criminal law still calls to her despite everything she’s seen. From analyzing bodycam footage to breaking out of boarding school, Tochi shares a vibrant, deeply human story about resilience, purpose, and a little bit of suya. Whether you're in law school, thinking about it, or just love a good origin story, this episode will leave you inspired — and maybe craving some jollof rice.

Boots on the Ground, Briefs in Hand: 2L Tom Malaspina discusses serving Veterans

COUNSELLER’S CORNER - EPISODE 6: Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with aspiring JAG officer and dedicated volunteer at the Baylor Law School Veterans Clinic, 2L Tom Malaspina. Together, they dive into the heart of legal practice—service—and walk through Baylor Law School students’ incredible work helping Central Texas veterans facing legal challenges—from estate planning to consumer protection. Plus, they spotlight Baylor’s renowned mock trial and advocacy program and what it takes to make the team. 

From Law to Lyrics – Christian Parker’s Journey Beyond the Courtroom

COUNSELLER'S CORNER - Episode 5:  Baylor Law School graduate Christian Parker shares his bold decision to pursue a music career in Nashville while keeping his legal connections strong. He discusses his upcoming third album, Scales and Strings, which explores the balance between law and passion. Christian also talks about the value of a law degree, his future plans, and the support he's received from Baylor Law School and legal professionals. Plus, a fun lightning round reveals his favorite Waco restaurant, dream pet, and more. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about chasing dreams and keeping doors open!

From Scrubs to Suits: Why Dr. Holland Chose Baylor Law School

COUNSELLER’S CORNER - EPISODE 4: How does a seasoned emergency room physician end up in law school—and not just any law school, but one with the most rigorous program designed to produce practice-ready lawyers? In this episode, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with Dr. Robby Holland, a doctor-turned-law student, who shares his journey from saving lives in the ER to seeking justice in the courtroom. He discusses the striking similarities between medicine and law, the challenges of his first year, and his passion for plaintiffs’ work. Plus, learn about his role in founding Baylor Law’s plaintiff’s organization, winning a national mock trial championship, and his transformative experience at Baylor Law School’s Academy of the Advocate in St Andrews, Scotland.

Gia Lewis

COUNSELLER’S CORNER - EPISODE 3: Dean Jeremy Counseller is joined by second-year Baylor Law student Gia Lewis, who shares her unique journey to law school, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the challenges of a rigorous academic environment. Gia discusses how her retail experience developed key interpersonal skills for legal practice and about her work revitalizing Baylor Law School’s First-Generation Law Student Organization to create a supportive community.

Asna Poonawalla

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller speaks with Asna Poonawalla, a second-year Baylor Law School student whose journey to law school was shaped by personal tragedy and a desire to seek justice. Asna and Dean Counseller also discuss the human side of the legal profession, Baylor Law School’s supportive environment, life in Texas, internships, and the value of meaningful mentorship.

Cagan Baldree

Second-year Baylor Law School student Cagan Baldree speaks with Dean Jeremy Counseller about his journey to law school. After growing up in East Texas and playing football at Texas A&M, Cagan struggled to find a career path until he became interested in government and politics. He consequently earned a master’s degree from the Bush School at A&M, and after a brief experience in municipal administration, he decided law school would be the best course for the next stage of his career. As a married father of three, Cagan also offers insight into the challenges of balancing family responsibilities with the rigorous demands of law school.