Profile - Arif Noorani '09

Undergraduate School: University of Chicago  Hometown: Alpharetta, Georgia

Describe your reasons for attending law school, with a particular focus on what drew you to Washington and Lee.

I decided to be a lawyer after taking an internship at the Child Advocate Attorney's Office in Atlanta, GA after my freshman year in college.  I understood that everyone needs a voice in court, regardless of one's socio-economic status.  

I decided to attend W&L because I value the close relationships professors have with the student body.  The Faculty truly takes an interest in every student.

Who's your favorite professor? Why?

My mentor is Professor Murchison.  Over the past couple of years, he has been a rock for me.  His advice and guidance has not only shaped my academic life here at Washington and Lee, but he has also been invaluable in navigating me through tough career and personal decisions that I have had to make.  

What's your favorite thing about Lexington?

I grew up in the suburbs of Atlanta, and I went to college on the south side of Chicago.  Lexington, VA provides something I've never had before – a small town experience that offers great outdoor opportunities and close-knit community relationships.

What student organizations are you involved with?

I am the Appellate Advocacy Chair on the Moot Court Executive Board.  I also won the John W. Davis Appellate Advocacy Competition and the Mock Trial Competition during my 2L year.  My involvement with the Moot Court Board has been a tremendous experience.  I have acquired the skills to effectively argue on my feet and spontaneously respond to a variety of issues.  Broken down to its simplest terms, a lawyer is an advocate.  I am now a better advocate because of the training I have received through Moot Court here at Washington and Lee.

Are you involved with any clinics or externship programs?

I am in the Virginia Capital Case Clearinghouse.  VC3 has been one of the best experiences for me here at W&L.  After spending two years reading through textbooks, I now have the opportunity to represent real clients at trial and appellate levels.