After earning her bachelor’s degree in coastal environmental science from LSU in 2021, Caroline McCullars decided to pursue her J.D. at LSU Law and take advantage of one of three specialized graduate certificates offered at the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center.
Through coursework and applied learning experiences, the Graduate Certificate in Energy Law and Policy equips LSU Law students with the industry knowledge and legal skills needed to practice in the highly lucrative energy sector. McCullars said her interest in energy law piqued during her undergraduate studies when a professor highlighted energy and environmental law as a viable career path post-graduation.
“I love the mixture of science and the law in this field,” said the Atlanta native, who is wrapping up her final year of law school this spring. “Energy law stands out to me because its subject matter differs significantly from other legal areas.”
Throughout her time at LSU Law, McCullars has taken a variety of courses covering energy and environmental law, while also forging connections with professionals in the energy law sphere. Along the way, she has earned numerous academic distinctions including the Paul M. Hebert Scholar and Dean’s Scholar honors, along with a CALI Award for Excellence in Legal Traditions. She currently serves as managing editor of Louisiana Law Review and said the experience has been a fundamental part of her LSU Law career so far.
“Being a part of ‘Law Review’ for the past two years has been immensely fulfilling,” she said. “This year, I have the opportunity to review articles authored by both students and professors, and last year I contributed an article of my own on an energy-related subject. I think the experience enhances my overall development as a law student and will make me a well-rounded future attorney.”
A recipient of the Liskow Scholarship, William B. Owens Endowed Scholarship, and Judge Paul B. Landry Scholarship, McCullars said the awards are invaluable to her legal education and future in energy law.
“I am so grateful for these awards,” McCullars said. “They have helped me immensely to lessen the financial burden of law school and take the steps necessary to pursue a career in the energy law sector.”
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