Shanice Cameron admits she did not know what to expect in law school. Three years ago, the Bronx, New York native excitedly attended a Florida A&M University College of Law program designed to assist students with their transition to law school.
Since then, Cameron has continuously stood out among her peers, racking up one success after another. She will be recognized as the valedictorian and student speaker when FAMU College of Law holds its 2022 Hooding Ceremony for 134 graduates on Saturday, May 7, 2022, at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress.
“My dear mom, Carol, has worked hard as a pre-school teacher to support our family,” Cameron said. “I am the first person in my family to graduate from law school and to graduate at the top of my class means so much to my family, here, and in Jamaica.”
Cameron is extremely close to her mother who is also her motivation and inspiration. Cameron will proudly tell you she is doing her best to give back to her mother and family. She hopes to make life easier for her family.
Cameron will graduate summa cum laude after having been selected as the prestigious Holland & Knight Scholar, an honor that awards recipients with a full in-state tuition scholarship and summer employment at the law firm. She served as the Holland & Knight Scholar for two consecutive years.
“I’ve learned so much at Holland & Knight. It’s a great fit for me,” Cameron said. “Imagine my surprise when I was called into the office and told I am being offered a full-time job after graduation,” said Cameron, who will begin work at the law firm after taking the Florida Bar exam this summer. “The news brought tears to my eyes and my mother was also emotional about it.”
Another major accomplishment for Cameron came as she was selected as the Editor-in-Chief of Law Review, a notable title earned through academic achievement. “Serving as Editor-in-Chief was difficult but fulfilling. I was able to work alongside some of the brightest students at FAMU Law,” she added.
From Holland & Knight Scholar to Law Review Editor-in-Chief, to class valedictorian, Shanice Cameron is a shining star.
“While all of my professors were helpful, it’s important that I mention four special professors: Eurilynne Williams, Omar Saleem, Maritza Reyes, and Jeff Brown for their wisdom and support. Also, thank you, to my study group who have become my FAMUly, Oluwatomi Adegbola, Oscar Draughn, and James Hippolyte. They made the hard days easier.”
Cameron encourages future and current law students to stay focused, believe in their abilities, surround themselves with supportive people, and always strive for excellence.
The ceremony will be live-streamed online and live on FAMU College of Law’s Facebook.