Christopher Gaines, 2L

I’m from Avery, Texas, and I graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. My interest in criminal law has been a long‑standing part of my journey, and it continues to shape the opportunities I pursue.

At OCU Law, I’m a member of Phi Delta Phi, where I appreciate the organization’s focus on professionalism, scholarship, and ethical leadership. During the summer, I worked for a criminal defense attorney in Lufkin, Texas. That role gave me meaningful, hands‑on experience with client interaction, case preparation, and the day‑to‑day realities of criminal defense work.

One of my favorite things about OCU Law is the community. Students genuinely support one another, and the environment feels welcoming and collaborative. It’s a place where people from all backgrounds can find belonging and grow into the kind of lawyers they want to become.

For anyone thinking about applying to law school, I want to encourage you to take that first step. Applying was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and you don’t need to have everything figured out to begin. The journey is worth starting.