In honor of Veterans Day, UConn Law highlights the stories of Andrew McCotter and Steven Jellen, of UConn Law student group VALOR (Veterans and Armed Forces Legal Out Reach). Balancing both military service and law studies, they talk about their military commitment and involvement in VALOR along the school’s growing community of veterans and service members. Students who serve are inspiring and possess leadership skills, discipline and dedication to service that enhance the UConn Law community.

McCotter is President of VALOR and a member of the United States Marine Corps who aspires to work with the U.S. Attorney’s office.  Jellen is Vice President of VALOR and currently serving as a Medical Platoon Leader in the Connecticut Army National Guard, he was also a Paralegal at a Veterans Disability Law firm before coming to UConn Law.

McCotter reflected on how his military experience has influenced his law school career:

As President of VALOR, (Veterans & Armed Forces Legal Outreach Society), I am proud to say that being a member of the United States Marine Corps has profoundly shaped my perspective and prepared me for law school. The discipline, resilience, and commitment to service instilled in the Marines have been invaluable in the rigorous environment of law school.

The ability to manage time efficiently, handle stress, and take the initiative have transferred seamlessly. My decision to apply to law school stemmed from a desire to continue serving in a different capacity.

While the transition from the military to law school can be tricky, UConn’s Vet Center has made the process easy, giving me the info and tools needed to get the most from the benefits available. Balancing law school and the Marine Reserves is challenging, but I find it to be manageable and extremely rewarding.

VALOR has allowed myself and others at UConn Law to support the veteran community and military families through pro bono legal work and advocacy by partnering with outstanding Non-Profits such as the Connecticut Veterans Legal Center. I intend to carry the values of the military into my legal career, hopefully finding work as a U.S Attorney. The Marine Corps has not only prepared me for the challenges of law school but has also given me a sense of purpose that I will carry into my legal career.

 

Jellen talked about his journey to law school and his experience balancing active duty service with his studies.

Serving my country and my Soldiers has been the most challenging, yet rewarding, thing I have ever done. Everyone who has served our nation has faced—and has ultimately overcome—many challenges that seem daunting and even impossible at first. It was this process of consistently proving myself wrong by overcoming these obstacles that gave me the confidence that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.

After graduating Basic Officer Leader Course in early 2023, I knew that I wanted to continue challenging myself and hopefully make a lasting difference in people’s lives. This is what pushed me to start studying for the LSATs and applying to law schools.

Although juggling both law school and National Guard obligations has been difficult at times, my past military experiences have shown me that anything is possible if you put the work in. Plus, the Connecticut National Guard covers all of my tuition here, which is a big help.

If you are a Veteran or current Service Member thinking about coming to UConn Law, I would highly recommend it! VALOR and the school as a whole will welcome you with open arms.

VALOR

UConn Law’s VALOR (Veterans and Armed Forces Legal Out Reach) Society promotes scholarly discussion of law regarding Veteran and Military related topics; and builds social ties between interested students, the law school, and the local community to promote professional development.

 

 

Veterans make it possible to express our thoughts and emotions freely, have meaningful debates on vital issues, strive for positive change, and exercise our rights as Americans. Please take a moment to thank all of our UConn Law active duty members, veterans and their families for their service and support!