Duke Law Life: Meet Ellie Purinton
Ellie Purinton
CLASS OF 2027
Prior Education: Emory University
Hometown: Concord, Massachusetts
Professional Interest: Health law/life sciences
My Duke Law Life
- Health Law Society
- Women Law Students Association
- LEAD Fellow
One of the main elements that drew me to Duke Law was the culture. When I visited and spoke with current students, there was a palpable environment of support and intellectual curiosity that was very appealing to me. Students were excited to talk about the accomplishments of their classmates and were clearly eager to connect with new people. The students that I spoke with were all passionate about their interests, and I knew that I would be able to learn a lot from the curiosity and experiences of others.
I wanted to attend a law school that would push me intellectually and had a supportive environment and good quality of life; I found Duke Law to have an ideal balance of these elements.
I started my undergraduate education at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was curious about what I saw happening in the world around me, including the access issues involving treatment and the policy surrounding vaccine development. I became passionate about improving healthcare and I knew that a law degree would position me to be able to do the most important and impactful work in that area. Even though I am only a rising 2L, law school has already opened doors for me to be able to examine healthcare access and drug developments from new angles.
3 great things about living in Durham
- The food! When I was a prospective student, I heard that Durham had good food, but it has exceeded my expectations. There are so many great places to try, no matter what type of food you like.
- Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Within walking distance from the law school, the Duke Gardens are such a beautiful place for a walk with friends or just to unwind by yourself.
- The weather. The sunshine and lack of snow (usually) in Durham has been a great way to balance studying with spending time outdoors.
How to survive and thrive in law school
- Get outside of your comfort zone. It is just as important for your professional growth to take classes that push you and connect with peers who are different from yourself as it is to work hard.
- Know where your limits are. As important as it is to push yourself, it is equally important to know when your brain and body need a break. Law school is difficult, and it is important not to forget to rest and take the time to do things you enjoy.
- Take time to explore your new home. Some of my best memories of 1L year were trying new restaurants and experiences in Durham with friends. Don’t forget to have fun!
My advice if you are thinking about law school
Many students considering law school may feel as though they need to know exactly what area of law they would like to practice. I would tell students considering law school that whether you have general intellectual curiousity about the law or a passion for a very specific area, law school can be a great path.
In law school, you are able to learn about topics and career paths that you did not know even existed. Do not be dissuaded from law school just because you do not know exactly what you would like to do with your law degree. And if you do have a clear vision for what area you want to practice in, still keep an open mind to exploring new areas. You may be surprised about what areas you are drawn to!
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