Veterans Clinic Scholarship Awardees Jermina Landstrom 3L and Tom Jarboe 3L
August 29, 2014
Students Jermina Landstrom 3L and Tom Jarboe 3L have been awarded TJSL Veteran’s Clinic Scholarships. Appreciative of the honor Jarboe said, “First and foremost I want to thank my fellow clinic peers whom I think were as equally deserving of recognition. Secondly, I would like to thank Clinical Administrative Assistant, Martha Moran for being available to answer questions and being there for all our logistical needs. Last and certainly not least, I would like to thank Professor Berenson and Professor Nieman for leading such an integral program within the San Diego community and teaching us how to resolve problems for so many that are struggling.”
“Tom was an asset to the clinic and the clients, said Professor Nieman. “His legal work while in the military provided a wonderful foundation for which to create relationships with his clients, as well as provide a context from which to work when dealing with the legal issues in the clinic space. His positive attitude and permanent grin brought encouragement to the clinic space.”
No less grateful, Landstrom seconded Jarboe’s sentiment stating, “I would like to extend my gratitude to Professor Berenson and Professor Nieman for their patience and guidance throughout the semester.”
“Thomas and Jermina both did outstanding work in the clinic this summer,” said Director of the Veterans Legal Assistance Clinic Professor Berenson.
“Jermina worked effectively and efficiently in the clinic,” said Professor Nieman. “She was confident in her case work and her genuine care for her clients showed throughout the semester.”
“The VLAC is an excellent opportunity to gain hands on experience because several cases and clients are assigned to each student to handle independently. It is up to the student to take the initiative to meet with the supervising attorney to ensure s/he is on the right track with each case,” Landstrom said of her experience.
“From client interviewing, preparing for hearings, to standing before the judge at the Superior Court with the client at your side, the Veteran’s clinic gives you an unequal amount of hands on experience. I would recommend the Veteran’s clinic to anyone that wants to get real life experience and give back to the community at the same time,” Jarboe said. “I feel honored to be a part of a clinic that does so much for our community. As a veteran myself, I feel like I’m giving back to those that served before me. I was excited from the onset to even get a chance to meet and serve our clientele.”
All students must commit twenty hours a week to participate and scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate extraordinary dedication and exemplary performance. “Thomas was able to bring his experiences as a member of the Coast Guard and as a paralegal with the Judge Advocate General’s office to bear on his cases, and to the benefit of all of us in the clinic. Jermina’s legal work product was always excellent – timely and precise. It was a pleasure working with each of them,” Professor Berenson said.
Jarboe added, “Overall I could not say enough about what a great program the TJSL Veteran’s clinic is not only for our school and students, but also for the greater San Diego community.”
Funding for the Veteran’s Clinic Scholarship is raised by the Alumni Association’s Annual Alumni & Friends Golf Tournament which will take place this year on Friday, October 10, 2014, at Salt Creek. Students are welcome to register.