Initiation Events
During the Spring 2011 semester Phi Alpha Delta initiated 42 new members during two separate initiation events. These initiation events were held within the new building for the first time in our brand new Moot Courtroom. After the first Spring '11 Initiation P.A.D. members met at The Corner Bar and Grill where the Fraternity provided appetizers; the seared ahi and tater-tots were especially delicious. Following the second Spring '11 Initiation event new members joined existing members for a wine and cheese event.
1L Mentorship
Each semester interested 1L students are paired with a personal mentor within the fraternity. These one-on-one relationships provide excellent assistance to 1L students from qualified 2L and 3L students. In addition to the mentorship program P.A.D. has held two 1L workship events over the Spring '11 semester in order to help 1L's with study techniques, memo writing, and research.
P.A.D. Mock Trial Competition
Phi Alpha Delta has its very own Mock Trial team and competition. The Spring '11 PAD Mock Trial Team comprised of John Culver, Jennifer Goldman, Samantha Massau and Erika Mayorquin were sent to the Washington, D.C. area to compete in a mock trial competition sponsored by Phi Alpha Delta Fraternity, International. The team was coached by Jonathan Cooper, whose time and guidance was appreciated by all. Although TJSL did not take home the trophy, our team argued well and represented TJSL admirably. In fact, the organizers have expressed interest in holding a future competition at TJSL. One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to the United States Supreme Court, where we received a behind the scenes tour.
Inside the Judge's Chambers
This event was limited in number by the size of the courtroom; thus, it was a very personalized experience. Members of P.A.D. were allowed to sit in on oral arguments for demurrers and sanctions in Judge Foster's courtroom at the Hall of Justice in downtown San Diego. After listening to practicing attorneys argue real cases, members attending the event were able to speak with Judge Foster in an informal question and answer session.
Champagne & Chocolate Affair
P.A.D. helped several students gain access to this event for a reduced cost by volunteering to help set-up or clean-up. For twenty minutes of volunteering members were able to network with practicing attorneys and judges from the local area while sampling wine, champagne and various tasty treats.
Etiquette Dinner
P.A.D.'s annual Etiquette Dinner for members and guests is a formal event focused on the rules and expectations of etiquette in a formal dining environment. Attendees receive a lesson in etiquette as well as a three course meal. During the Spring '11 Etiquette Dinner P.A.D. was able to provide wine for the dinner event.
St. PADdy's Day Mixer
Members and guests were invited to the Tipsy Crow in the Gaslamp District of downtown San Diego where we relaxed, celebrated, and anticipated the upcoming spring break vacation. P.A.D. rented out the entire upstairs of the Tipsy Crow and provided hors'dourves. Attendees enjoyed food, drinks, billiards, and 4-player Nintendo Wii on the flatscreen. Simply put - awesome.
Meet & Greet
At the beginning of the semester P.A.D. held a meet and greet event at Basic in the East Village where both existing and prospective members were invited to meet one-another. Basic is located very close to the new Thomas Jefferson School of Law building and FIT Athletic Club where all TJSL students receive a complementary membership. P.A.D. provided never-ending pizza at Basic and Western State University College of Law (TJSL) Alumnus Phil Shapiro attended the event as well and networked with members and prospective members.