International law is the framework that protects and governs all humans, sovereign states, and international organization, and the interplays and obligations therein. At Southern University Law Center (SULC) one student is making waves with his passion for international law by showcasing the power of education, mentorship, and an unyielding pursuit of justice.
Nicolas Garon, a third-year law student, is dedicated to reforming policy and law to bring justice closer to others in the international arena. His drive for international law ignited during his undergraduate studies at Louisiana State University, where he majored in Political Science, with concentration in International Politics and Law. While there, Garon took a course on the Introduction to International Politics that explored the function of treaties, laws, and governance in international relations.
“I didn’t come to law school to be a courtroom lawyer,” Garon says. “I wanted to be on the ground working to shape policy and protect human rights.”
At the Law Center, Garon is gaining a solid foundation on the analysis of current law, and the rationales behind amendments and new legislation.
“SULC teaches me what the basis of law is,” said Garon. “The institution is also preparing me on how to become a historical writer and compare law in other jurisdictions.”
During his legal studies, he has undertaken extensive research in human rights challenges, comparative immigration law, and treaty law. One notable project involved analyzing the relationship between national security concerns and austere immigration policies. His research found data to suggest that implementing harsh immigration policies on certain nationalities is more based on migration pressure rather than public safety concerns.
Garon’s dedication to his field extends beyond research. He is a prolific writer, with his law review articles being published nationally. His first article was published in the Connecticut Journal of International Law in his first year of law school.
He also actively participates in academic conferences, sharing his insights and expanding his knowledge. He has presented his research at the law schools of Louisiana State University, Texas A&M, and Southern University, as well as at the University of Tokyo. Presented topics ranged from immigration law to human rights violations.
“I’ve learned so much from these experiences,” Garon says. “Engaging with scholars and practitioners from different parts of the world has broadened my understanding and opened my eyes to new ways of thinking about international law.”
Looking ahead, he envisions a program where first year law students can learn about the role of international law, and meet former career diplomats. His goal is to work with organizations like the United Nations and the IOM to help reform existing human rights and migration-based issues. He also is interested in diplomatic law and consular affairs, which are handled by the U.S. State Department’s Office of the Legal Adviser.
Upon graduation, Garon aspires to take on leadership roles that bridge the gap between legal theory and practice, ensuring that international laws are well-crafted and effectively implemented, and international obligations are preserved.
His advice for first-year law students is to carve their own path and to never fear to do something different.
His advice for first-year law students is to carve their own path and strive to do something different.
"Don’t limit yourself," he emphasizes. “One of my favorite professors always reiterated that there is a big world out there, and absolutely nothing is stopping you from achieving your dream in it.”
Garon’s story is one of dedication, innovation, and relentless pursuit of knowledge. His journey at SULC and beyond is an inspiration for aspiring lawyers, demonstrating that with passion and hard work, one can carve a unique and impactful path in the legal field.
Original source can be found here.