Career Moves: Mackenzie Ferguson ’21 will carry passion for the law to the UGA School of Law

Mackenzie Ferguson ’21 was curious about the law while she was growing up, with an interest in how it shapes society and affects the daily lives of individuals. But it wasn’t until the first semester of her senior year at Elon that she decided to start searching for and applying to graduate programs.

To ensure her application materials conveyed the full extent of her abilities and ambitions, she reached out to the staff who work in the Student Professional Development Center (SPDC) for guidance. With help from SPDC staff members René Jackson and Rachael Rysz, Ferguson tailored her resume, edited her personal statement and prepared for admissions interviews. Mackenzie now gives much credit being accepted into the University of Georgia Law to the guidance she received from the SPDC and the expertise of its staff.

Ferguson is the latest person to be featured in our series of Career Moves stories that profile students and alumni who worked with staff in the SPDC to find and land jobs, internships, and gain graduate school placements.

Ferguson recently answered questions from the SPDC about her experience:

How did your interest in attending law school develop?

From the moment I started college, I knew that I wanted to attend law school. I have always been interested in how laws shape institutions and the daily lives of people. And, as my parents would say, I have always loved to argue. While majoring in English literature at Elon, I learned the importance of gaining multiple perspectives when understanding the truth. A law degree can help me advocate for alternative points of view.

Who did you work with, and what help did you receive from the Student Professional Development Center?

I worked with both René Jackson and Rachael Rysz throughout the entire application process. They helped to ensure that I was presenting myself on paper as best as possible. Rachael Rysz helped me restructure and condense my resume to highlight my relevant skills and experiences. René Jackson worked with me in editing several drafts of my statement, giving me advice on how to effectively convey my passion, experience, interest, and goals to UGA Law.

What recommendations would you share with students about the Student Professional Development Center?

Get involved with the SPDC early on in your Elon career, build relationships with SPDC’s career advisors, who are eager to support you every step of the way throughout your professional career.

Tell me about your experience getting accepted into UGA.

When looking at graduate schools, the University of Georgia presented an opportunity to go to law school while staying close to my home in Athens, Georgia.

SPDC advisors encouraged me to submit my application early. Although early decision applications were not due until Dec. 1, I decided to apply earlier to increase my chances of gaining acceptance.

I submitted my application materials in October, and although I was not expecting to hear back until the end of the six to eight-week rolling decision period. Surprisingly, I received my acceptance letter to UGA Law just two days after submitting my application.

Without the help from the SPDC, my application would not have stood out as much as it did, and I don’t think I would have received such a quick acceptance.

What career goals do you have after you gain experience?

After I complete law school, I plan to work as an intellectual property lawyer, share new perspectives, and give back to my community through legal work. A longer-range goal is to gain a seat in a local political office.

Which faculty members did you work with to prepare, and what help did you receive?

I worked closely with my academic advisor and research mentor, Dr. Carrie Eaves, to prepare for law school. Dr. Eaves has been invaluable to my growth at Elon. Without her guidance, reassurance, and confidence in me, my time at Elon would not have been as valuable to my personal and professional growth.