Western Law School

As a student at the “second chance” law school profiled by The Times (Feb. 29), I take issue with the characterization of Western State University as a haven for only those students “shut out” of the top institutions.

Western State University was my first choice law school. The idea that I should leave my wife behind for 3 years while I pursued a legal education at a distant Establishment school never crossed my mind. My only concern was a quality education close to home. I have not been disappointed.

Although it is true that Western State follows a “whole person” admissions policy, and considers factors ignored by the American Bar Assn. schools, each student has demonstrated the ability to be successful. Many have credentials that would open the doors at any ABA law school. I have taken courses with a doctorate-holder from Yale and a master’s degree recipient from Stanford; others have undergraduate records equal to the best at Harvard Law.

The student population at Western State is effectively balanced between those meeting the traditional criteria for law school success and others whose life experiences would be ignored by an ABA dean. Some of the “others” have turned out to be the best students and the best lawyers. Perhaps the ABA could learn from Western State.

ROBERT D. BILLS

El Toro