Counseller’s Corner

For Such a Time as This: A New Chapter for 1L Justin Paley at Baylor Law School

Counseller’s Corner – Episode 14: In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with 1L Justin Paley, a former tech recruiter with advanced degrees in religious studies, and the host of the Thinking Biblically and Beyond podcast. Justin opens up about his unconventional path to Baylor Law School, the intellectual itch that law school scratches, and the unexpected parallels between theology, podcasting, and legal reasoning. They cover everything from the historical roots of law to the future of AI in legal practice… with a lightning round that reveals Justin’s ice cream allegiance and dream travel destination. Justin’s journey to law school demonstrates that no experience is wasted. Even the most unexpected backgrounds can lay the groundwork for a meaningful legal career.

Leveling Up: Elsa Tovar’s Journey at Baylor Law School

In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller speaks with third-year Baylor Law School student Elsa Tovar Morin about her journey to law school as a paralegal and single mother. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community support and the mindset that has helped her thrive both academically and personally. Elsa shares her reasons for choosing Baylor, the lessons she has learned along the way, and the value she places on presence, gratitude, and service. The conversation closes with a lighthearted moment as Elsa and Dean Counseller bond over their shared enjoyment of video games—and the surprising life lessons they’ve found in unexpected places.

Chalkboards, Concrete, and Casebooks…

Before he was briefing cases, Jerry Attaway was breaking down the Bill of Rights for eighth graders. In this episode of Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller talks with Jerry—now in his second year at Baylor Law School—about his bold pivot from public school teaching to legal training and the surprising ways his past experiences continue to shape his law school journey and beyond.
 
The conversation ranges from the deeply personal to the laugh-out-loud funny. Jerry shares what it’s like to be a first-generation college graduate wrestling with imposter syndrome, how summer starters at Baylor form tight-knit bonds, and why construction law (yes, construction law) unexpectedly sparked his passion. Along the way, he and Dean Counseller swap thoughts on helping pre-law students find their voice, nerdy study snacks, llama ownership, and the myth of the dome light felony.
 
Jerry also turns the tables to ask Dean Counseller some questions, leading to reflections on truck stops, long-haul dreams, and the surprisingly profound advice Dean Counseller received during his own judicial clerkship.

Faith, Advocacy, and Lauren Monroe’s Journey from Baylor Law’s Waitlist to Leadership

In this episode of The Counseller’s Corner, Dean Jeremy Counseller talks with second-year law student Lauren Monroe, whose path to Baylor Law School was shaped by unwavering faith, resilience, and a delayed admission that became a blessing in disguise. Lauren shares how she discovered her passion for advocacy, took on leadership through the Student Bar Association, and followed a God-given calling to serve survivors of human trafficking. From the heartbreak of waitlists to the courtroom thrill of moot court, Lauren’s story is one of purpose, perseverance, and the power of saying “yes” to the unexpected.

Austin Lau’s Journey from Coding to the Courtroom at Baylor Law School

From writing code to briefing legal cases, 2L Austin Lau made a bold pivot from software engineering to studying law at Baylor Law School—and he hasn’t looked back. In this episode, he shares what pulled him away from tech, how his Baylor Lawyer dad helped ease the transition, and why he’s so inspired by intellectual property law’s blend of creativity, independence, and constant innovation. Austin also talks about his go-to coffee order in Waco, the artists he’d book for Baylor’s new concert venues, and what it’s really like trading corporate life for the pressure of law school cold calls.

Contracts, Confidence, and Career Decisions: Claire Zurovec’s Path Through Baylor Law

EPISODE 9. In this episode, Dean Jeremy Counseller sits down with standout Baylor Law School 3L Claire Zurovec as she reflects on her journey through law school — from conquering Practice Court with confidence to thriving in the world of corporate and securities law. They cover everything: which electives helped shape her career path, why transactional competitions matter, and how friendships and the Baylor Law School community leave a lasting mark. Plus, lightning-round fun reveals Claire’s go-to Waco hangouts, comfort food fixes, and which Jane Austen heroine she’d trade places with for a day. Whether you’re a prospective law student, a curious alum, or just someone who loves hearing how passion and preparation meet opportunity, this episode delivers insights and inspiration with heart.

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!