Exploring the Meaning and Richness in Life 鈥� and in the Law: Meet English Major Timothy Murphy 鈥�18
There are two skills that Timothy Murphy 鈥�18 believes are crucial to his work as an attorney. One is the capacity to absorb complex information; the other is the ability to craft, distill and present arguments or advice in a clear and organized manner. Murphy honed his readiness to do both of these things as an English major on the Heights, examining complex texts and engaging in dialogue about that material. Now an assistant counsel for the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), Murphy says simply:
If you can learn to do those two things well, I believe you can succeed not just in the practice of law, but in many other fields.鈥�
A native of Camillus, New York, Murphy made the most of his time at Le Moyne. He fondly remembers聽 engaging in lively discussions in each of his classes and honing his ability to craft clear, cogent texts in various creative writing workshops. He cherished the opportunity to learn alongside his peers, some of whom had similar interests and outlooks as he did, others who had different priorities and life experiences. Looking back, he says, his time in the English program exposed him to a variety of perspectives and ideas. Each piece of literature he studied 鈥渁dded more elasticity to [his] mind and provided additional lenses through which to find meaning, richness and beauty in life.鈥�
Away from the classroom, Murphy learned and grew as an individual and a professional while working as an intern at the Onondaga County District Attorney鈥檚 Office. All of those experiences have served him well since then, as he earned a law degree from Syracuse University, launched his career as an attorney at the U.S. Department of Commerce, and embarked on the work he is now doing at the DASNY. Each is part of a puzzle that the alumnus continues to put together, thoughtfully and with purpose.
He offered this advice to current Le Moyne students:
Cherish this time in your life and use it to explore whatever you are passionate about!鈥�
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Inspired by His Story?
An English degree from Le Moyne builds more than strong writing skills. Through close reading, discussion and creative expression, you’ll learn to think critically, communicate effectively and prepare for careers in law, business, education, publishing and beyond.
Where will The Heights take you?
