Mock Trial Scholarship at North Central College
Mock Trial provides valuable experience for anyone planning to pursue a legal career. However, this is not a pre-law activity at North Central College; students from all academic majors and interests are welcome and encouraged to participate. Participating in Mock Trial develops public speaking skills, the ability to think on your feet, and powers of persuasion.
The Mock Trial tournament season runs through fall and winter terms (and into the spring term when the team advances to nationals). Members will compete with teams from across the region and the country, such as the University of Michigan, the University of Chicago, and the University of Notre Dame.
The Mock Trial Scholarship is funded by North Central College and awarded to incoming new students and new transfer students who indicate a commitment to the North Central College Mock Trial Team. The scholarship is renewable; renewal of the scholarship in subsequent years is based on continued participation on the North Central College Mock Trial Team and meeting the other criteria of the scholarship.
Impact
Brandon Sarkauskas on Mock Trial
Before he set foot on campus for classes, Brandon received a Mock Trial Scholarship. “Being involved in Mock Trial confirmed my interest in law,” he says. “I’ve learned about the legal profession through people I’ve met and behind-the-scenes things I never would have experienced if not for Mock Trial.”
Of all the roles he plays in Mock Trial, Brandon enjoys serving as lawyer the most. He’s good at it, too. In his first tournament of the season, he won Outstanding Attorney while competing against others from large universities and winning programs.
“I’d encourage anyone interested in Mock Trial to check it out,” he says. “All majors and careers can benefit. The best skills I’ve gained are writing concisely and public speaking—they advance your whole career.”