Our Interview With Julia DeLisse, President & Editor-In-Chief Of The Hofstra Law School Moot Court Board

Julia DeLisse is the President & Editor-In-Chief of the Hofstra Law School Moot Court Board.‍

What inspired you to pursue leadership within your school's Moot Court organization?

I was inspired to pursue leadership within Hofstra’s Moot Court Board because I was immediately drawn to the program as a 1L. It helped me gain a sense of confidence, and it was the first thing that made law school feel like the perfect place for me. I wanted to give back to the organization that gave me so much in just two years by helping create that same sense of belonging, growth, and confidence for newer members.

What skills can aspiring law students gain from joining an organization like yours?

Aspiring law students can gain a wide range of practical skills from joining an organization like Moot Court. Members develop strong public speaking abilities by learning how to confidently present arguments before judges and respond under pressure. Moot Court strengthens quick and critical thinking skills, as competitors must analyze complex legal issues and adapt to questioning in real time. In addition, students learn persuasive communication by crafting clear, compelling arguments. Beyond advocacy skills, Moot Court emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, since partners must work closely together to prepare arguments, strategize, and support one another throughout competitions.

What advice would you give students preparing to apply to law school?

My biggest advice for someone applying to law school would be to never lose sight of yourself in the process! Law school can seem intimidating from the outside, but there are so many different outlets, opportunities, and communities within it that allow everyone to find their place. Whether it’s Moot Court or other student organizations, there is truly something for every interest and personality type. You do not need to have everything figured out before applying. Be open to new experiences, put yourself out there, and trust that you will grow tremendously both personally and professionally once you get there.

What advice would you give law students on making the most out of their experience in a Moot Court organization?

My advice would be to fully commit yourself and take advantage of every opportunity the organization offers. Moot Court can be intimidating at first, but the best way to grow is to put yourself out there, be open to feedback, and challenge yourself. The more you practice, compete, and engage with others, the more confident and comfortable you become as an advocate. I would also encourage students to build relationships within the organization, because Moot Court is not only a great way to develop advocacy skills, but also a supportive community where you can learn from and grow alongside your peers.

We're proud to interview student leaders like Julia DeLisse to help future lawyers understand the benefits of extracurricular involvement.