Professor Mayo Moran, Dean of the U of T's Faculty of Law, met with 20 engaging students in the Champlain College Living Learning Commons on January 20. Her leadership and success inspired Trent students from departments across the university; many of whom aspire to attend law school in the future. Likewise, her perspective diminished some myths about the study of law, and the University of Toronto.
Dean Moran taught secondary school in northern British Columbia after completing her BA in English and Philosophy, as well as a B.Ed at UBC. The challenges of being a young teacher in an impoverished rural school set the path of her life: she found deep meaning in the ability to change people's lives through education, and she found a deep dedication to social justice. It was only after teaching for several years that she undertook and completed her LLB at McGill, LLM at Michigan, and S.J.D. at the University of Toronto.
Her path from humble roots in northern BC to the leadership of Canada's most prestigious law school surprised students, and offered encouragement to those from backgrounds as varied as Business/Philosophy joint majors, to Fleming College transfer students. Dean Moran's comments emphasized the value of studying English and Philosophy--areas of study that build critical thinking, reading, and writing abilities--but also emphasized that no law background is necessary to study the law.
Her main advice to students was to "Do what you love, as there isn't anything more important than to be able to pursue your passions". For her, this has meant a life of learning. When she set out to do her doctoral degree in the law, the prospects for employment after graduation were slim. But the calling to study and write about the legal concept of "the reasonable person", her love of justice, and "the legal puzzle of the law" won out. And she believes her career success is testament to her belief in that principle.
Students were interested to learn that the U of T's law curriculum is actually very broad. There are many dual degree options, including a new joint J.D. and Master's of Global Affairs, as well as many avenues for studying Human Rights law, and Animal Rights--a program introduced by Dean Moran herself. Students were also interested to learn that U of T law's admissions are entirely merit-based, while their scholarships/bursaries are entirely need-based. This ensures that knowledge and ability, not economic privilege determine the quality of the 700 students in the School of Law.
Trent students enjoyed discussing a variety of topics with Dean Moran, ranging from the gender dynamics of law school and university leadership, to the ways that Canadian Law-particularly in the areas of aboriginal rights and human rights--has had global influence.
Dean Moran's visit was sponsored by Champlain College.
