Spenser Jaenichen ’19
Strategic Communication: Public Relations and Advertising and Economics double major
Litigation Associate at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
How did Butler prepare you for your career?
Butler prepared me for my career in two ways. First, the curriculum required students like me, born and raised in a small town, to leave their comfort zone and learn more about the world they soon enter. The curriculum sparked curiosity and allowed me to continuously think critically and creatively when solving a problem, which is imperative in the legal world, where no two scenarios are identical. Second, Butler’s small classroom sizes and experiential learning approach required me to work closely with classmates and professors. As a lawyer, I rarely work alone on a case. Experiencing such a collaborative atmosphere during my undergraduate years has allowed me to actively engage and implement constructive criticism into my work while welcoming others’ thoughts and advice.
What skills or knowledge gained at Butler have been most useful in your career?
Learning how to navigate time management was most helpful. Butler encourages a culture of extracurricular involvement, which can be difficult depending on a semester’s course load and leadership positions. While at Butler, I was on the cheerleading team, active in my fraternity, worked two jobs on and off campus, and held various leadership positions within several student organizations. In doing so, I learned to manage my time while maintaining my grades and excelling academically. Now, I implement the same time management tactics I did back then, consistently carving out personal time to unwind and decompress after a stressful day or long week.
What is the most important thing you learned at Butler?
I learned not to take myself too seriously and never be afraid to ask for help. The faculty and student body at Butler fosters an amazing collaborative environment. By asking for help or guidance, I’ve become a much better lawyer and advocate for my clients.
Who influenced you the most while you were a student?
Dr. Mark Rademacher of the College of Communication influenced me the most as a student. He saw something in me that, at the time, I didn’t even see in myself. The level of confidence and investment Dr. Rademacher gave me did not go unnoticed. He gave me the confidence to invest in myself in ways I would never have if he hadn’t been my professor, advisor, and, most importantly, a mentor.
What advice do you have for students who are interested in pursuing a career in this field?
Never stop learning, and never stop asking questions. The beauty of the legal field is how malleable it is. Whether it is various developments in case law or new regulations passed by Congress, there are always new and exciting ways to approach a legal issue. Solving legal issues demands creativity and a drive to learn and grow constantly. I also encourage you to take classes that push you out of your comfort zone or attend lectures that may question your ideals.