On Sunday, August 30, BC Law’s Black Law Students Association (BLSA), in collaboration with the Black Alumni Network (BAN), kicked off the academic year with our annual Welcome Back BBQ.

Held the afternoon before the first day of classes, the Welcome Back BBQ is a longstanding tradition that brings together incoming BC Law 1Ls, current BLSA students, and Black alumni, faculty, and administrators. This year, more than 50 members of our community gathered at Auburndale Cove to enjoy an afternoon of fellowship, connection, and soul food.

We are especially excited to welcome 27 Black 1Ls in the Class of 2029, each bringing their own experiences and perspectives to BC Law and our BLSA community. The BBQ gave our newest BLSA members an opportunity to get to know one another before classes took over and to connect with the upperclassmen and alumni who will support them throughout their time at BC Law.

One of the things I value most about BLSA’s relationship with BAN is the mentorship and support it provides our students. BAN is made up of former BLSA members who remain connected to the community long after graduating from BC Law. At the BBQ, many of our 1Ls had the chance to meet their BAN mentors, each of whom generously serves as a resource as the 1Ls navigate their first year of law school and beyond.

As I begin my second year at BC Law, it is especially meaningful to experience the BBQ from a different perspective. Just one year ago—it honestly feels like yesterday—I was one of the anxious new 1Ls enjoying the warm welcome of our BLSA community. This year, as Co-President of BLSA, I had the privilege of welcoming the next class and hopefully helping them find the same sense of belonging I found through BLSA last year.

To our new 1Ls: law school will undoubtedly bring its challenges. But I strongly encourage you to lean on the community around you, take advantage of your mentors and those who have walked these halls before you, and balance your studies with building the relationships that will help carry you through the year. I learned during my 1L year just how important it is to find a community you can lean on, and I hope BLSA can be that community for you too.

---

Dave Sainte-Luce is a 2L student at BC Law. Contact him at sainteld@bc.edu.