By Angel Kate C. Alag
Layout by:Mariah Yvette Papina
It is mesmerizing to hear the admiration of everybody when you enter law school. But behind the glamour, studying law could be a demanding, jealous mistress. It requires you to give extra time for reading, comprehending, and managing emotions. But who says law students cannot enjoy the journey to success? It’s a slight tweak to your academic routine, a reminder that having comfort outside of codals is essential to survival.
Leadership is honed, creativity is cultivated, and passion is instilled. Lawyering is about administering justice with integrity and zeal in the service of the Filipino people. If you desire to ignite the flame within, begin by serving the Bedan community. Connect with people who will help you shape into the kind of lawyer money cannot buy. Here is a list of organizations you can join:
- School of Law Government
The School of Law Government is the organization that releases relevant secular announcements within the school jurisdiction. They also acknowledge student queries and address complaints. As stated in their organization’s motto, “Serving with integrity, transparency, and compassion. The organization aims to convey every need of the students to provide a smooth and convenient journey for every aspiring lawyer.
- Centralized Bar Operations
Fondly referred to as the “Bar Ops”, the Centralized Bar Operations (CBO) assists Bedan bar takers by providing both academic and logistical support. It also allows students to volunteer during Bar season. If you are the kind of person who believes in collecting good karma and taking initiative, then Bar Ops is for you.
- The Red Chronicles
Journalism is a powerful tool in democracy, as the official student publication of SBCA-SOL, The Red Chronicles (TRC), opens the minds of the majority by informing them about the truth behind the sugar-coated system. If one is keen on writing (News, Features, Literary), photojournalism that captures the soul of the subject, or tech-savvy and can steer the social media landscape, then TRC is waiting.
- Rene A.V. Saguisag Legal Aid Center
One of the foremost duties of a legal practitioner is to assist indigent litigants. In honor of the late Senator and human rights defender Rene A.V. Saguisag, after whom the organization is named, the Rene A.V. Saguisag Legal Aid Center (RAVSLAC) encourages students to provide free legal representation and promote justice in vulnerable communities by applying their legal knowledge beyond the classroom walls.
- Volunteer Corps
The Volunteer Corps (VolCorps) is the workforce of SBCA-School of Law Government (SLG). They are committed to helping the student body, ensuring the best service to aspiring Bedan lawyers. VolCorps also extends its assistance to the school’s collateral organizations, such as the Centralized Bar Operations.
- Human Rights Center
Justice is one of the prevailing advocacies of every aspiring lawyer. A law practitioner upholds integrity and the highest fiduciary duty to society and its people, safeguarding the rights of individuals protected by the Constitution. If you desire to be part of this venture, the Human Rights Center would be a wise choice. They advance every student’s advocacy for rights and humanity.
- School of Law Internship and Development
Uncertainty about what to pursue after law school is a dilemma that the School of Law Internship and Development (SOLID) seeks to solve. In partnership with the Counseling and Career Development Office, SOLID provides valuable internship opportunities and connects aspiring practitioners with pathways that lead to a brighter legal career.
- Environmental Law Society
A healthy ecology is the responsibility of every human being. Article II, Section 16 of the 1987 Constitution mandates our duty to maintain a balanced and healthy ecology in harmony with the rhythm and harmony of nature. Our allegiance to the planet means that while we enjoy its resources, we must also give back by being conscientious stewards of the environment. The Environmental Law Society (ELS) addresses environmental issues by conducting programs and events, making the world greener and lighter.
- Bedan Law Review
Bedan Law Review (BLR) is the official law journal of SBCA-SOL. It publishes relevant and timely legal issues written by distinguished professors of the institution, sharing their expertise and knowledge with the Bedan community.
- School of Law Chorale
If one is passionate about singing, the Chorale is the perfect organization. They sing with a heart as they heartily proclaim every lyric and rhythm. They also ensure that the talent of their members will be an asset through activities beyond the campus.
- Law Student Ministry
Faith and love are the foundations of every human’s spiritual life. In the Ministry, members make connections through charitable and meaningful ministries that welcome every individual with warm hearts. It is beyond academic excellence, but rooted in compassion and a heart for service.
- Council of Moot and Debate
Public speaking, research, argumentation, logic, and composure — if you are passionate about these skills or eager to develop your rapport and critical thinking, the Council of Moot and Debate (CMD) will warmly welcome you. By joining the organization, you will have the opportunity to participate in moot court and debate competitions, both locally and internationally.
- Election Commission
The Election Commission aims to preserve transparency and integrity in choosing the officers to govern the Student Law Government body. The purpose of which is to administer all laws and regulations relative to the conduct of an election, and exercise exclusive original jurisdiction over all contests relating to the SLG elections, to maintain impartiality by virtue of equanimity of right in both students and officers.
Law school is tedious and requires courage and persistence, one step at a time. However, it can still be enjoyable, albeit with a purpose. These organizations offer a flicker of light that pushes you to move forward when doubt is greater than your faith. Burden is easier when shared.
The council of organizations at San Beda College-Alabang is not merely an academic institution for enhancement, but also a community that shares dreams, passion, and persistence that push you to the zenith of your ability.