Economics Program Places Alum at Cornell Law School
After graduating from a community college, Jonas Baune came to MSU Moorhead to get his B.S. in economics (2022).
"I had a close friend in the economics program. I'd heard great things about the professors, so knew I'd have good mentors," he says.
His interest in business, economics, and finance made the B.A in Economics program a natural fit. What he didn't expect was how his two years at MSUM would be the key to opening the door to law school.
Jonas remembers working on an extended writing project that spanned multiple semesters. The extensive academic challenge helped him sharpen his writing and research skills, which he now uses heavily at Cornell Law School.
"Our professors pushed us hard, to show our best work," he says.
Jonas' professors were ready to not only teach his courses but to advise his classmates, providing guidance in pre-professional programs as they applied for graduate school or further professional education in health and medical sciences, law and engineering.
"I relied on my MSUM experiences in my application, which I think got me accepted."
Among his mentors, Jonas recalls two key figures in the MSUM economics program: professors Tonya Hansen and Oscar Flores. "They were both instrumental in guiding me, particularly with my research paper, which was eventually published," he says.
While at MSUM, Jonas was an active member of the Economic Society. His participation opened opportunities for professional development and networking. He attended trips to Washington, D.C., where he met a regional Federal Reserve president, and New York City, where he presented his research.
"Presenting in New York gave me a lot of confidence and a new perspective," he says.
Jonas applied to several Top Law Schools and got accepted to both Berkley Law and Cornell University, eventually choosing Cornell Law School because of its location.
"I relied on my MSUM experiences in my application, which I think got me accepted," Jonas says.
Jonas is set to complete his law degree in 2027 and wants to build a career as a litigation lawyer.
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