Oglethorpe’s pre-law advising track is undergoing an exciting transformation under the leadership of Ellie Barreneche, a former assistant public defender and civil litigator who brings years of legal and educational experience to her role as advisor.
“As someone who is deeply passionate about both the legal profession and supporting students, I am excited about guiding students through the process of exploring law as a potential career path,” says Barreneche. “Having worked for years as both an attorney and a law school educator, I understand both sides of the equation: the legal profession as well as what it takes for students to be successful in law school.”
The revitalized track offers students personalized advising, academic resources and real-world legal exposure. One major addition is the Pre-Law Student Resource page, a centralized hub on Canvas that includes law-related internship listings, pre-law summer programs, recommended Oglethorpe courses and more.
These tools are designed to prepare students for law school applications and help them explore law as a career path.
In addition to online support, students can engage in in-person events. This fall, students attended the LSAC Law School Forum in Atlanta, connecting with over 100 law school representatives. In January, students will visit the Court of Appeals of Georgia to observe live oral arguments and meet with Presiding Judge Chris McFadden ’80, an Oglethorpe alum and member of the Alumni Board.
Nzinga Collins-Dabo ’29 attended the LSAC Law School Forum and made meaningful connections with law schools she’s interested in applying to.
“I’m thrilled to participate in Oglethorpe’s pre-law advising track because our pre-law advisor, Ellie Barreneche, truly cares about the success of all of her students, and the opportunities she provides are endless,” said the politics major. “Recently, I’ve been able to attend events, understand the depth of building my network as a first-year student, and gain valuable social skills that will equip me for future success in the law field.”
Another exciting addition to the track is a one-credit micro course offered over spring break 2026. The class introduces students to various legal fields and walks them through the law school admission process.
Oglethorpe’s liberal arts curriculum, Core program, and small class size make the university stand out as a pre-law program in Atlanta. OU’s academics are key in preparing students for law school as they build on critical thinking and analytical skills in the classroom.
“Recruiters from law schools have told me numerous times how graduates from small schools like OU perform better than their peers who graduated from larger institutions,” says Barreneche. “OU also has a network of alumni who are active leaders in the Atlanta legal community and who are committed to supporting current students with their career goals.”
As the pre-law advising track continues to evolve, it reflects Oglethorpe’s commitment to academic excellence and preparing students for meaningful legal careers.
