Graduating from St. Mary's School of Law
Robert graduated from St. Mary's University School of Law in December 2012 and immediately began preparing for the Texas Bar Exam. The Express-News profile described his path through law school and the determination that had already characterized many of his accomplishments.
St. Mary's provided Robert with accessible technology and materials during his studies. His guide dog, Snickers, became such a familiar presence at the law school that he was also recognized during Robert's graduation ceremony.
Developing His Legal Experience
While attending St. Mary's, Robert studied international legal issues in Innsbruck, Austria, and worked as a student attorney through the university's Center for Legal and Social Justice. His work there included matters involving divorce, consumer protection, and foreclosure.
Robert also served as a legal extern with the U.S. Coast Guard, assisting with courts-martial proceedings and other legal matters.
A Commitment to Service
The profile explored Robert's longstanding desire to serve in the military and how that ambition helped inspire his decision to pursue a legal education.
By the time he graduated from law school, Robert had already spent years volunteering with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and working with military organizations. He hoped that becoming an attorney would provide another way to put his skills to work in service to others.
Persistence in the Face of Obstacles
The Express-News placed Robert's law school graduation within a much larger story of persistence. His experiences included becoming an Eagle Scout, participating in competitive wrestling and skydiving, serving with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, and continuing to pursue opportunities that others had told him were not possible because of his blindness.
That determination was reflected in the philosophy Robert shared with the newspaper: when confronted with a "no," he believed in finding another way forward.