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Grad profile: Building her network

Leandra Bouman, Schulich School of Law

- June 2, 2023

Leandra Bouman. (Provided photo)
Leandra Bouman. (Provided photo)

This article is part of a series focusing on the grads of the AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ Class of 2023. Spring Convocation runs from May 29 to June 7 in Halifax and Truro. Read all our profiles here as they are published, and for more information visit the Convocation website.

Why did you want to attend the Schulich School of Law?


I chose the Schulich School of Law for several reasons. I grew up in Dartmouth, N.S. and wanted to be closer to my family after finishing my undergraduate degree in a different province. Another important factor was my acceptance into the Indigenous Blacks & Mi'kmaq (IB&M) Initiative. I had the opportunity to speak with IB&M alumni and faculty members when I was first thinking of applying to law school. I knew that I would be joining a powerful network of Canadian lawyers by attending the Schulich School of Law and accepting my offer as part of the Initiative.

In what ways were you involved with the law school community?


I was involved with the AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ Black Law Students' Association (DBLSA) throughout my studies, first as a general member, then as Vice-President of Communications and, in the past year, as President. I also participated in the Smith Shield Moot and the Laskin Moot. Finally, I acted as a Law Ambassador in my final year, connecting with prospective law students.

What is your favourite law school memory?


This past February, both the Black Law Students' Association of Canada's national conference and the Laskin Moot took place in Halifax over two consecutive weekends.

The preparation for both events was challenging. However, what ensued was a week of great discussions and celebrations with fellow students from the Schulich School of Law, students from other Canadian law faculties and legal practitioners with a range of backgrounds and specialties.

What will you miss most about Schulich Law?


I will miss being able to bump into friends, faculty and staff in the Weldon Law Building. It felt as though I could never walk through the building without seeing a friendly face or stopping for a nice chat!

What are your post-graduation plans?


After graduation, I will begin articling with Cox & Palmer in their Halifax office.