Choosing a Career that Matters

For Shannon Burnham, there is no nobler profession than law.“ The work of a lawyer truly matters. Lawyers have the power and education to make real and substantial changes in this world,” she says.

Burnham chose law because she thrives when faced with new challenges. “I knew I would never survive in a field that forced me to mimic the same monotonous activity day after day.”

Trying to find a work-life balance in law school isn’t always easy—but the experience has been punctuated by small successes, like completing a particularly challenging memo, and the feeling of relief when she walked out of her last exam of the first semester.

Before law school, Burnham earned a master’s degree in psychology and spent a year interning in United HealthCare’s mental health department in Philadelphia. She hopes one day to serve as in-house general counsel for a corporation or organization.

As a tour guide and admissions fellow, Burnham shares her enthusiasm for Indiana Law with prospective students. “I have developed a sense of pride in the Indiana Law community and convey that to future students,” she says. “The warmth, friendliness, and hospitality I felt at Indiana are the main reasons I accepted the Law School’s offer to attend.”

Her areas of focus include health law, labor and employment, and sports law, and she’s a member of Phi Alpha Delta, the Black Law Student Association, and the Tenant Assistance Project. “These groups are an important networking tool. By joining student organizations, you’re put in touch with upperclassmen with similar interest and experiences. I think getting to know the 2Ls and 3Ls is essential. You make great friends, gain insight into interviewing, get tips on taking exams, and gather advice about which professors to take in the future.”

Why Indiana Law?

“The Midwest offers a very different atmosphere than the East Coast, where I’m from. This atmosphere is one of the major reasons I chose Indiana Law. The town has a collegial vibe. There aren’t too many distractions in Bloomington, like those you would find in a big city, but there’s plenty to keep you busy.”

Making friends:

“I was very surprised to see how social and friendly IU law students are. While all students from top-tier law schools are competitive, Indiana students find a way to also be civil and cooperative with each other. I can truly say that I get along with most of my fellow students and enjoy their company. You feel a sense of community and belonging to both the law school and the greater IU campus.”

I ♥ my study group:

“I have a small study group of three people. It works because there aren’t too many people overpowering the conversation. Everyone has a chance to voice their questions. It works really well and has helped tremendously in outlining and preparing for exams.”

Law School favorites:

“[My favorite professor is] Terry Bethel. His sense of humor keeps people awake during his 8 a.m. class. And my favorite class would be a tie between Contracts and Constitutional Law.”

Best thing about Bloomington?

“Obviously Big Ten basketball!”