By: Laisha Harris

Twice a year, the Texas Board of Law Examiners has what lawyers call a “Bar exam.” Before a lawyer can engage in the practice of law, they must pass a comprehensive multi-tiered exam filled with multiple-choice and essay questions. At Thurgood Marshall School of Law, there are a handful of students who began their studies at the peak of the COVID pandemic yet passed the Bar exam with scores high enough to practice law in multiple jurisdictions.

Historically, the justice system has been implemented against Black men and women.  In 1946, the Texas Constitution mandated segregation in schools. Herman Marion Sweatt applied to the University of Texas Law School but was denied because he was a Black man. Shortly after, the Texas State University for Negroes was formed, providing higher learning in law, education, and medicine for Black students in Houston. As Thurgood Marshall was a judge who heard Sweatt’s case, the law school was named the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. As of 2021, only 5% of Texas attorneys are Black, although they represent 12% of the Texas population. At Thurgood Marshall, 59% of the law students are Black. As we continue to make strides towards equity in our communities, students like Tedrick Hawkins, Justyn Edwards and Derick Grandoit are doing their part to Protect It, Improve It, but most importantly, Pass It On.

This past Sunday, ThurGreat esquires hosted “Free Game” to share their tips and success on how they conquered the February Bar Exam. “Seventy days, almost 12 hours every day,” says Hawkins. “I started with 25 practice questions. As I got closer to the bar, I would do more than 50 questions a day. I made sure to see every subject each week. Con[stitutional] law was my hardest class in school, but that was my highest score on the bar.”

Amongst the three, test taking resources like Barbri and Kaplan were used, but later abandoned for Adaptibar. While there was a wide array of questions, the explanations weren’t very clear. Edwards shared that he looked at the most frequently tested rules and made them into flashcards. Repetition and frequency with multiple-choice questions provided foundation of their success. “There’s only so many ways to ask a question,” says Grandoit.

How did they remain consistent? “Knowing the why. We would have conversations about what we wanted to do when we passed the bar. We would make a list and now that we’ve passed, we can start crossing off those things,” says Grandoit. “Also, studying in a group. Being in the same room low-key forces you to hold yourself accountable to getting your studying done. I would pick up my phone and then look around, I’d see Derick and Teddy weren’t on their phone, so I’d put it down and get back to studying,” shared Edwards.

What do they recommend to other students who anticipate taking the bar in the future? “Just graduate and when it’s time for the bar, go overboard with your grind,” says Hawkins. “Take the bar prep classes at school!” The trio shares that if you start studying early, by the time you get to your bar course, you’re fine tuning your bar skills and can be more prepared for the exam. “Have a group that knows your why and everybody is working towards the same goal,” says Edwards. “Prioritize the subjects you study. Be sure to give more time to the subjects you need more help on so you can improve by the time bar comes around,” says Grandoit.

These three Class of 2023 graduates perfectly exemplify the values of Thurgood Marshall School of Law. While the road they were on is less travelled, having been the first law school class to endure a global pandemic, they are truly blazing a path. Hawkins will continue to work for a corporate firm. Edwards and Grandoit plan on opening their own firm, specializing in criminal defense and personal injury. “Coming from a family with no lawyers, I was focused on becoming the first in my family to do so,” says Edwards.

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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