Carolyn Graves '99

Hometown: St. Louis, MO

Previous employment: San Diego City Attorney's Office, Domestic Violence and Special Victims Unit 2003-2006; St. Louis County Prosecutors Office 1999-2003

What was your chosen area of specialty and why? I have served as a prosecutor in both St. Louis and San Diego, specializing in the prosecution of domestic violence. By holding batterers accountable, the criminal justice system can help break the cycle of violence within families and give children a healthier environment to grow and be nurtured by their parents.

Why Saint Louis University School of Law? The School of Law provides an environment for the study of law that is supportive to each student's interests and curiosities of the law while providing an excellent base in the fundamentals and methods of practicing law. Graduating from the School, you are ready to enter a courtroom, firm, or boardroom and be effective and ready to make a difference.

Your Best Experience at the School: The Clinics. Beyond textbooks, the Clinics enable students to begin serving clients and society using legal tools and skills that shouldn’t have to remain untapped until graduation.

What (or Who) at the School Had the Most Profound Effect on You? The Faculty as a whole was amazingly supportive. Professors are available and eager for student contact and questions.

What are Some Outcomes of a School of Law Education? The School provides a practical base for your career and sets itself apart by challenging students to graduate ready to practice; not just with mastery of coursework, but with practical skills to enter your field of choice.

Who Was Your Favorite Professor? Professors John Ammann, Alan Weinberger and Peter Salsich were especially influential. Brilliant practioners of the law, eloquent and attentive teachers and wonderful people.

What did you learn about law that you didn't anticipate? Law school challenges you to think in a new way.

Extracurricular Interests/Hobbies: Cycling, yoga and going to the playground with my son.