Artificial Intelligence, Real Advocacy
Lauren Shelton ’27
From hands-on advocacy experience to thoughtful integration of AI in the classroom, Chicago-Kent College of Law is preparing Lauren Shelton ’27 to shape her legal career on her own terms.
Lauren Shelton LAW '27“The sheer number of internship and clerkship opportunities in the Chicago market is astounding,” says Lauren Shelton ’27. “I have never felt like there was a shortage of positions.”
As a commuter student driving in every day from Indiana, Shelton worried that her needs wouldn’t be supported in law school. At Chicago-Kent College of Law, that wasn’t the case. She says the law school has helped her reach her goals every step of the way.
“This is partially because of their help securing 1L and 2L summer positions as well as my current clerkship position,” she says. “I believe this work experience is setting me up nicely for post-grad.”
During the academic term Shelton clerks at Bond & Botes Law Offices, a firm specializing in bankruptcy work and federal criminal defense.
“I never expected to have an interest in defense work or bankruptcy law, but after working with real clients, it has piqued my interest,” she says. “I got this position after one of my 1L professors suggested I apply. The professor knew several attorneys at the firm and thought I would be a good fit.”
“Chicago-Kent’s professors are all incredibly kind and helpful—they genuinely care about your success as a student and your development as a legal professional,” she continues. “They are always accessible outside of the classroom.”
And inside the classroom, she appreciates the school’s focus on innovation and modern technology.
“In the law school’s legal writing courses, we do not shy away from the topic of artificial intelligence,” Shelton says. “The law professors have shown us the dangers of AI in the legal field, but they have also given us clear guidance on how and when to use it to be better advocates. For better or worse, AI is the future, and I think it is great that Chicago-Kent is incorporating it into our curriculum.”
Shelton is still exploring the law and isn’t sure yet where she’ll end up. But she knows that with the backing of Chicago-Kent, she’ll find her way.
“The school has a strong reputation and an alumni network that is deeply connected and supportive,” Shelton says. “With the opportunities Chicago-Kent has provided, I feel I have the freedom to curate my career how I want.”