Law Students from Professor Webb's Civil Procedure Class at the Supreme Court of the United States

As the new Supreme Court of the United States Term (OT 2025) prepares to launch next week on the first Monday in October, Catholic Law students are reflecting on a unique opportunity they had last term to attend an oral argument in a major case.

On April 2, 2025, students from Professor Derek Webb’s Civil Procedure class attended oral arguments in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. Following the session, the group enjoyed lunch together in the Supreme Court cafeteria and received a guided tour of the Supreme Court building.

Reflecting on the experience, John Welte shared, “I have waited in line before only to be denied access, so to finally make it was a surreal experience. Being able to hear and see all of the Justices as they pushed experienced litigators on their arguments was impressive.”

Olena Voloshyna echoed his enthusiasm. “The Supreme Court trip was truly a highlight of my 1L year! It was incredibly inspiring to sit in on an oral argument and witness the Court in action firsthand. To many, including myself, the Supreme Court can feel like an enigma, so being able to observe the Justices, their interactions with the advocates, and even with one another was an amazing experience.”

Ingrid Torp described the day as “a great field trip,” noting that “sitting in on the arguments and watching the Justices in action, touring the whole building” made the experience particularly memorable. Isabelle Pastore added that “seeing those amazing spiral stairs, and visiting the library” after the argument were especially meaningful moments.

“Going to law school in DC has given me a lot of unique experiences,” John Welte said. “But this one is definitely at the top of the list.”

The Supreme Court begins its new term on October 6, 2025.