By Kristina Bilowus
I am a connector, educator, writer, and lawyer. Prior to my role at MSU Law, I practiced family law and criminal defense in Detroit. I also worked as an adjunct professor at Cooley Law. When I was a newer “ish” lawyer, I got involved with several professional organizations that enabled me to connect with others, serve, and develop my writing. In late 2020, I joined MSU Law where I was able to combine many skill sets and amplify my passion for service in the legal profession.
MSU Law has top-notch students and lawyers. My motivation is them. I see their hard work and talent. I also know the path through law school and beyond can be difficult. As a first-generation law student and lawyer in my family and social circles, I struggled to find the relevant resources and opportunities while in school. Now on the other side (of law school and practice), I can use the lessons I learned while keeping up with changes in the legal landscape.
It is my hope that I bring excellent service to our law students and lawyers, as their goals become my goals. Working together, we create a partnership in pursuing their path forward. This type of energy is the very essence of what I love most about what I do.
I am involved in several professional organizations, both within the legal profession and beyond. I am a member of the State Bar of Michigan and its Representative Assembly for the 30th Circuit. I am a member of the National Association for Law Placement. I am president-elect, regional member and board member of the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan. I am a board member of Ingham County Bar Association, and involved in several diversity and inclusion initiatives throughout the state.
Outside the legal community, I am the current treasurer of the Michigan Center for Civic Education; the Chair of Girls on the Run Mid-Michigan; and the New Member Co-Chair for the Junior League of Lansing.
This level of involvement has given me the best return on investments. I am able to connect students to community stakeholders, potential employers, and best of all, a network of amazing people who can provide life-long opportunities.
Our Career Services Office at MSU Law makes a huge impact on our graduates. We’re building relationships for life. The goal is to work during summers and have a job offer upon graduation. However, there is so much more that we do outside the actual job search process.
At CSO, we use a holistic approach (professional identity, career searching, individual development, and mentoring) to help students achieve those goals. Our dedication to our students’ careers is a hallmark the office I am honored to be part of. Relationships and service are the cornerstones of the legal profession, and I want to make sure all our students have a solid foundation for their careers.