For Wonsup Chung, Class of 2026, the journey to law school was rooted in public service and a desire to uplift those around him. “After completing my military service in South Korea and immigrating to the United States, I was determined to find a career where I could support my family and contribute to my community,” Chung reflects. “As a recent immigrant, I initially felt I lacked meaningful skills to offer, and I wanted to become a more useful member of society. I found that the legal field was a perfect fit for that goal.”
With a clear vision in mind, Chung explored several law schools in the Washington, D.C., and Maryland region. The turning point came during the new student orientation at Catholic Law. “I visited a couple of other schools, but felt something was missing,” he recalls. “When I visited Catholic Law, I immediately sensed it was special.” The impression went beyond first appearances: “The professors were charismatic, knowledgeable, and professional, and the students were genuine and welcoming.”
What stood out most was the community’s spirit. “I especially remember how warm the professors and staff were, and how genuinely happy everyone seemed to be at Catholic Law.” After that visit, he was certain of his choice: “I called my family to tell them I had made my decision, and the rest is history.”
Learning by Doing
From his earliest days on campus, Chung experienced firsthand the institution’s signature support. “As an evening student, I was initially concerned that I would have fewer opportunities for externships and practical experience compared to day students,” he admits. “However, Catholic Law offers strong support for evening students, including access to clinics and priority registration for certain courses.”
A standout opportunity emerged in the Nonprofit Advocacy Clinic with Professor Brian Svoboda. “I represented a nonprofit facing a range of legal issues,” Chung explains. “My main assignment was drafting a legal memorandum analyzing which tax election would best serve the organization. I also developed a practical compliance guide for the client’s employees.” He continues: “Before the clinic, I had no background in nonprofit tax law, but Professor Svoboda provided steady guidance and subject-matter support throughout the semester. By the end, I felt confident enough in the area to present directly to the client.” The impact was clear. “It was especially rewarding to help the organization strengthen its operations through our research and recommendations, and even more meaningful to see the client adopt our advice and apply it in practice.”
In addition, Chung’s work at the Veterans Consortium brought vital experience and deep satisfaction. “I have tremendous respect for those who serve our country,” he says. “It was especially meaningful to work with clients directly. I valued the opportunity to listen to their concerns and support supervising attorneys in helping develop practical solutions to a wide range of problems.”
Standout Experiences
Chung singles out the Technology and Communications Law Practicum with Professors Halley and Faulb as a program highlight. “Even before enrolling, I heard from alumni that it was one of the most practical and practice-oriented courses at the school, and that they had gained skills they continued to use in their careers. My expectations were high, and the course exceeded them.” Describing the process, Chung shares, “We worked on the Upper C-band auction, a timely issue affecting the telecommunications industry. We examined competing positions from multiple stakeholders, and Professors Halley and Faulb brought in representatives from different groups to present and debate their views.”
Gaining real-world advocacy skills made a lasting impression: “Before writing the comment, observing experts and attorneys build their arguments and present persuasive points was especially helpful,” Chung notes. “The course culminated in a mock Ex parte proceeding based on our written comments. This gave us the opportunity to present our arguments in person and engage with experts who would consider multiple stakeholder perspectives before making a final decision on the Upper C-band auction.”
The experience was challenging but rewarding: “Preparing to present before experienced telecommunications attorneys was nerve-racking, but it was a rewarding experience to communicate my client’s position in both written and verbal form. It was great to receive thoughtful feedback and practical advice from several Catholic alumni who graciously volunteered as judges.”
He also describes the Supreme Court Seminar with Justice Clarence Thomas and Judge Gregory Maggs as “a tremendous honor and privilege.” “To be a student and to be able to discuss Supreme Court jurisprudence, with guidance from a sitting Supreme Court justice and federal judge, was a tremendous honor,” he emphasizes.
What Comes Next
His Catholic Law experience has already opened doors. “After graduation, I will join Miles & Stockbridge as a first-year associate in its Baltimore office. I am excited to begin my legal career at such a respected firm,” Chung shares, underscoring the achievements made possible through Catholic Law’s practical preparation and respected reputation.
Why Catholic Law Still Stands Out
With his degree in hand, Chung is unequivocal about what sets the school apart. “Catholic Law is special because of the strong support students receive from professors, classmates, staff, and alumni,” he says. “Law school is challenging, and balancing coursework while exploring career paths can be difficult without guidance. In my experience, whenever I faced challenges, there were always professors, staff, classmates, and alumni willing to help and to make the process easier so I could succeed.”
For future students, his endorsement is clear: “Catholic Law has everything a student needs to achieve legal goals, and I hope many students choose to begin their legal journey here.”