Student Testimonials

Agneta Hendershot, Class of 2021

"The Veterans and Servicemembers Legal Clinic gave me an opportunity to apply skills that I learned my 1L year and put them in context. I was able to help write an appellate brief, conduct client interviews, and develop case management. This clinic also gave me insight on what it means to maintain positive client communication and be a zealous advocate. I have been able to build new research and writing skills and use them to uplift and advocate for those who need it most. It was a big commitment, but I am eternally grateful for the experience."

Katherine McNally, Class of 2019

"The best part of my clinic experience was working directly with clients and listening to the veterans talk about their military service and their life after service. I was able to build on my client interaction with medical and legal research, memo writing, record requests, and wrap up my semester with an argument that combined all of my work into one product. I would recommend the clinic to students who are looking for an experience that will help them develop skills applicable to practice, while also giving them the opportunity to give back to veterans who have sacrificed so much for us."

Joseph Oliva, Class of 2018

"It was awesome to know that we were helping people who sacrificed so much to serve our country as members of the armed forces. Additionally, a lot of the skills you learn in the clinic will translate into almost any practice. Moreover, Professor Vollmer is an excellent mentor and role model for any law student who dreams of one day being a litigator. She taught me so much in my time at Penn State, and it was a great privilege to work alongside her at the clinic. I would encourage anyone with a passion for helping other to give the clinic a try."

Chris Raqueno, Class of 2021

"Joining the clinic is an amazing experience for any law student who is looking to improve their skills of interviewing, research, analysis, and writing. Working closely with veterans and getting to understand their stories is an opportunity that I will take with me throughout my career. Working with Professor Vollmer and the veteran’s clinic was a truly incredible opportunity and I would recommend it to anybody who wants to get real-life experience working with some amazing clients who truly deserve our help."

James Paul Hutchison, Class of 2019

"My experience with the Veterans Clinic, under the tutelage of Professor Vollmer, was productive, challenging, and rewarding. The clinic gave me the opportunity to draft part of an amicus brief, observe a U.S. Air Force Court of Criminal Appeals sitting in the Katz courtroom, discuss proposed law changes with the Office of Senator Bob Casey in Washington, D.C., to improve service-connected disability coverage, and personally meet Vietnam War veterans. I would highly recommend that other students take advantage of this hands-on work, as clinic members not only benefit from enriched legal understanding, but also serving those who have served us."

Legal Statements