Class of 2020: This graduate has her sights set on law school

Megan Parker is one of the members of the Spring Class of 2020 chosen as a student speaker at commencement. She is graduating with a B.A. in Communication, summa cum laude, with a concentration in Media Studies and a minor in Public Relations. (Megan is pictured at right with UA President Gary L. Miller.)

Hometown: Mohicanville, Ohio

High School: Mapleton High School

How did you come to choose your major?

I originally wanted to be an English and creative writing major. However, I changed my mind after taking a journalism class during high school and falling in love with the work. When I saw UA had the Media Studies program, I knew it was the right choice for me.

What brought you to The University of Akron?

Honestly, being close to my mom was an important aspect of deciding where to go to college, as she has been my support system through everything. So, living with her five minutes from campus while saving money was the most logical decision, which led me to where I am now — a soon-to-be UA alumna.

What is next? 

If I pass the LSAT in May, I plan on applying to UA’s School of Law to get my J.D. and Master’s in Intellectual Property Law. Aside from being greatly influenced by the film “Legally Blonde,” I have always wanted to study law and become a lawyer as it deals with a lot of research and debate. Then, after taking a course called Legal Issues in the Media, I found my interest in copyright, trademark and other aspects of intellectual property law.

Q: What college experience contributed the most to your personal growth?

A: Being a part of The Buchtelite, the editorially independent student newspaper, is really what helped me grow personally throughout my time at UA. At first, I told myself I would not become involved in any organizations because of my disability. I was scared, honestly, and did not think any organizations would want me. But those involved with The Buchtelite were the first of many to prove me wrong and help me get past my fears. Not only has The Buchtelite given me hands-on experience toward my career goals, but I have also made some of my best friends through the paper. Additionally, I have joined several other student organizations because of overcoming my fears and have gained life experiences I will forever cherish.

Q: Best advice you ever got from a professor?

A: I have gotten a lot of advice from my professors throughout my time at UA, but there is one bit that I will never forget. Julie Cajigas, advisor of The Buchtelite and one of my professors for my journalism and public relations classes, told me that one of the most important characteristics a person can demonstrate is reliability. Although this is not as exciting as being the best, creating amazing things or outshining everything, Julie said it is the one that will lead to a career to look back on with pride. I think this is really important, especially in society today, as people are always trying to do better than each other, when all you really need to do is show up as prepared as possible and do your best at the task in front of you.

Megan's remarks to graduates

Q: Biggest surprise about college life?

A: There is so much about college life that came as a surprise to me, whether in a serious or comical way. In a more comical manner, I never realized how much my college experience would depend on coffee. To be honest, I think I have spent more money on coffee than I have my tuition. It even got to the point where the people working at Starbucks on campus remembered my order without needing to ask what I wanted. But in a more serious manner, I was surprised at how different college is from the way high school prepares people. At least in my situation, high school made me feel like college was going to be prison. But in all reality, college was one of the most freeing experiences ever.

Q: How have you changed during your years at UA?

A: For this one I had to ask my mom how she thinks I have changed during my time at UA, only because I really do not know the answer myself. And according to her, I have grown to be more social and outspoken, both inside and outside of the classroom. Now, thinking back on my experiences, I must agree with her and say that is the biggest change in myself since coming to UA. Before college, I was extremely antisocial and did not like to speak up about anything. Now I am an outspoken activist for change and not afraid to stand up for what I believe is right.

Q: What is your advice to incoming freshmen?

A: There is so much I would say to incoming freshmen, mainly because there are several things I would tell my past self. But to sum all of it up: College is one of the most freeing experiences, but that does not mean let that freedom get the best of you. Do the best you can do both inside and outside of class, no matter how big of an impact you think you are making. Because at the end of your college career, you aren’t going to look back and wonder what others thought of your time at UA; you are going to look back and wonder what you thought of your time at UA. Make the most of it, as these years tend to fly by fast; get involved outside of the classroom, and do not be afraid to make friends.