JD Student Profile: Dylan Shaw
CBL Assistant
Jul 2, 2024
Why did you decide to pursue the Business Law Concentration program?
I knew I wanted to be a corporate solicitor from day one, and so the Business Law Concentration was an easy decision. Not only was I able to surround myself with like minded students and experienced professors, but I could take unique courses that catered to lesser taught skill sets, like contract drafting, which are surprisingly difficult to learn before articling. I also knew that taking the concentration would demonstrate to future employers that I was serious about pursuing a business-focused practice.
What are some of the highlights of the Business Law Concentration for you?
My biggest highlight was being able to put the "pen to the paper" and draft contracts. Even though I am only a second year associate, I still cannot overstate enough how important it is to put in the time with drafting. There is so much one needs to learn, and the earlier you can learn, the better prepared you are for real clients and, candidly, the more lucrative you become.
Another highlight was learning under Ryan Black and Tyson Gratton at the Business Law Clinic. They were by far the most passionate professors I had, and I learned a great deal from them and our clients.
What was your experience in the Business Law Capstone like?
The Capstone was a comprehensive culmination of everything I had learned up to that point, and made sure I was up to speed on my drafting, writing, negotiating, and presenting.
I also had the unique opportunity to present a pretend amalgamation to a real company (in my case, to Teck Resources Limited), and was able to gain the insight of several professionals from firms around the city.
How do you think the program helps prepare students to work in business law?
All of us at law school were sharp enough to get in, and are sharp enough to practice law. The distinguishing factor for helping a business is understanding what a business is, and how they work. The Business Law Concentration makes that its very focus, and does a great job doing it. I use this knowledge, and the skill sets I've gained there, every working day, and I have no regrets having chosen the Business Law Concentration.
Published Summer 2024
- Centre for Business Law
