Tino Ochoa '10

Hometown: Chicago, Ill.

Undergraduate Degree: The University of Chicago, Law, Letters, and Society

Tino explains that the School of Law's excellent reputation and its exceptional faculty and students are what drew him to Saint Louis University for his legal education.

"SLU Law is an incredibly welcoming community that nurtures growth, both intellectually and professionally," Tino offers. "Law school is often thought to be cutthroat and nerve wrecking, but SLU students have been welcoming and open. One of my best experiences at law school has been meeting soon to be lifelong friends."

When he graduates from the School of Law in 2010, Tino plans on working in St. Louis and applying his legal education in real estate law and to also help those in need. "As a practicing attorney, I look forward to not only growing as an attorney," he explains, "but to also using my legal education to enhance my current volunteer efforts in St. Louis."

Student Profile

Extracurricular involvement: Hispanic Law Student Association, Black Law Students' Association, SLUMark, Old North St. Louis Restoration Group Board President, Family Resource Center Junior Advocacy Board

Scholarships: Deans Honor Scholarship

What are you passionate about? Valuing life every day and advocating for others. In specific, working in my neighborhood, Old North St. Louis, to help preserve beautiful architecture alongside various city officials while sustaining a truly diverse community with neighbors.

Favorite films: "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "Motorcycle Diaries"

Law Student Snapshot

Who is your favorite professor? Professor Anders Walker because he mixes intellectual, analytical legal arguments with humor and practical reasoning.

Favorite class: Torts. Everyday life revolves around this concept.

What advice would you give a first-year student? Get organized, join a study group and relax as much as possible before school starts.

What does it take to be a successful student? A successful student means to not only prep or read daily, but also to start thinking about how the law fits into the bigger picture. You also need good study habits, good friends and lots of rest.

How do you balance law school and life? By setting up boundaries between law school and all other things.

What are you learning about law school that you did not anticipate? The massive amount of time spent reading.

Spotlight on St. Louis

What would you tell prospective students about St. Louis? If you're from a bigger city, do not get scared off by its size. St. Louis has lots to offer if you're willing to explore all its niches, such as the City Museum, Cherokee Street, Washington Avenue and Forest Park.

Favorite places to eat near campus: Iggy's and Café Ventana

Favorite part of St. Louis: Old North St. Louis — the history, the architecture, the diverse people, the views of downtown, its proximity, the incredible amount of conscientious development and, of course, Crown Candy Kitchen!

What surprises you about St. Louis? St. Louis offers an international experience if you're willing to explore the city. St. Louis also has great food and many free world class venues.