Profile - Brandon Hasbrouck '11

Undergraduate School: Dominican College  Hometown: Bloomingburg, New York

What drew you to Washington and Lee?

I decided W&L because of the W&L difference.  That consists of two subcategories: The Admission Team and the new Third Year Program.  The Admission Team, led by Dean Evans, Admission Director Andrea Hilton, and Assistant Admission Director Brett Twitty, is remarkable. They truly appreciate the individual!  Every question I had during the application process they answered genuinely, enthusiastically and passionately. I was also attracted to the new third year program.  I wanted to be around innovative minds (like Dean Smolla) that grabs cynicism by the throat and says the law school experience can be something more.

Who's your favorite professor?

This is a tough question!  Honestly, all of my professors are exceptional.  If I had to pick one, I'd say Professor Spencer. I can speak about his brilliant mind or his innovative classroom lectures, but his best characteristic, in my opinion, is the audacity of his desire.  He is an extraordinary individual who wants to see you succeed as a lawyer.   

Describe your favorite classroom moment.

Probably when Professor Seymore stopped class to have an open discussion about being a leader in the lawyer profession.  He discussed the rigors of the profession and cautioned us not to succumb to status quo standards.  He said you could have a disagreement with someone without being disagreeable and to always find value in your disagreements as well as your agreements with someone.  And to always remember that as W&L lawyers we lead by honor, principle and innovation.

What's your favorite thing about Lexington?

The spirit of the people!  Everyone is very polite and they always have a smile on their faces. 

What student organizations were/are you involved with during law school? Was involvement in any of those particularly meaningful to your experience here?

The Black Law Student Association (BLSA). Yes!  First, BLSA is under excellent leadership.  My involvement with BLSA has made my experience so much richer.  Every member is always willing to give you advice, provide a study outline or tell you about a great job opportunity.  

Anything else you'd like to add?

I couldn't have made a better choice!