From L to R: Peyton Smetana, Julie Reed, and Katiah Scott

Catholic Law recently held a Bar Exam Info Session and Panel Discussion for graduating students, offering valuable insights and resources to help them prepare for the bar exam. The event, led by Bryan J. McDermott, Assistant Dean for Academic and Bar Support, featured a panel of three 2025 graduates—Katiah Scott, Julie Reed, and Peyton Smetana—who shared their experiences and advice on effective study strategies, maximizing commercial bar prep courses, and utilizing Catholic’s Supplemental Bar Prep Program. This session is just one of the many initiatives spearheaded by Dean McDermott to support students in their bar exam journey.

The Class of 2025 had reason to celebrate, achieving first-time bar passage rates of 90.38%—a clear reflection of the school’s dedication to student success. Additionally, the ultimate bar passage rate for the Class of 2023 stands at 94.9%. This rate represents the percentage of graduates who pass the bar within two years of graduation.

Catholic Law’s dedication to bar exam preparation begins before graduation, with a robust lineup of courses and programs designed to ensure students are fully equipped for the challenge. Additionally, the Catholic Law Summer Bar Prep Program offers graduates the chance to work one-on-one with alumni, attend catered lunches with essay feedback, and participate in practice quizzes and review sessions. With the support of faculty, alumni, and resources like the DuFour Law Library’s study aids, Catholic Law ensures its graduates are prepared to excel on the bar exam and in their legal careers.

When discussing the alumni support for the program, McDermott stated, "Our Supplemental Bar Prep Program really highlights the community at Catholic. We want our current graduates to know that we are committed to supporting them all the way through the bar exam, and to have alumni assist in the process makes it even more meaningful."

By combining the tailored support of Catholic Law’s initiatives with the rigorous preparation offered by consumer bar prep programs, students can approach the bar exam with confidence and a well-rounded strategy. This dual approach underscores Catholic Law’s commitment to equipping its graduates with every tool necessary for success.