Erica Howard ’26 shares her study abroad experiences with her Campbell Law family
When I was first accepted into Campbell Law, Assistant Dean of Admissions Miguel Hernandez welcomed me with the words, “Campbell Law is a family.” At the time, I didn’t fully grasp the depth of that statement. Today, after having had the privilege to study abroad twice with my classmates, faculty and deans, I can say with certainty: Campbell Law truly is a family.
I have been blessed to take part in two study abroad experiences—first in Nottingham, England, and more recently in St. Andrews, Scotland. Both opportunities not only expanded my education but also deepened the bonds within our Campbell Law community.
In Nottingham, as part of Campbell’s innovative LL.M. partnership with Nottingham Law School, we traveled for an induction ceremony after completing a preparatory course here at school. What struck me most was not just the academic enrichment but the sense of care and connection. Instead of parting ways after the day’s events, Dean Rich Leonard would gather us together for dinner. Those evenings of laughter and conversation—far from the pressures of coursework—strengthened our ties in a way that only shared experiences abroad can. I will always remember the thoughtful details, such as Professor Caitlin Swift’s handmade-leather luggage tags embossed with a map of England, and the way she, along with Professor Sarah Ludington and Dean Leonard ensured we felt safe, supported and truly seen.
This summer, I had the honor of joining the Academy of the Advocate program in St. Andrews, Scotland, hosted by Baylor Law School. The program—whether in the School of Trial, Advanced Trial or the School of Appeal—challenged us to become better advocates. Yet what I carry with me most is the sense of belonging that was fostered daily. Dean Leonard welcomed us into his home, making it a gathering place for students. Professor Erin Kenny went above and beyond—even walking 25 minutes to the store and back to provide whatever we needed. Former Campbell Associate Dean of Academics Dan Tilly, now with Baylor, still poured into us with generosity and care. Their actions reminded me once again that at Campbell, mentorship extends far beyond the classroom.
Returning home from these trips, the hallways of Campbell feel different. The “hellos” are warmer, the smiles brighter and the friendships deeper. As a non-traditional student embarking on a second career, I cherish these opportunities more than I can express. They have not only enriched my legal education but also reminded me of the profound gift of community.
To my Professors, the Dean and my classmates—thank you. Thank you for the memories, the mentorship and most importantly, for proving time and again that Campbell Law is more than a school. It is, and always will be, a family.
