Andrew Block

Andrew Block, Class of ’17

Legislative Correspondent, U.S. House of Representatives

A confluence of factors drew Andrew Block to The Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University. A Capitol Hill staffer, his decision to matriculate was informed by curriculum, location, value and opportunity.

Says Andrew, “A person’s decision to attend law school is unique to each individual, as everyone has different goals and expectations and weighs the risks and uncertainties differently. I made my decision to attend Mason for these four reasons. They are all topics that I discussed with the admissions office in making my decision, and entering my third year, I can happily say they have all played a huge part in my excellent experience at Mason.”

Andrew explains that Mason’s focus on law and policy helps students not only learn the law, but also think about the impact of their actions as lawyers. “Scalia Law’s proximity to Washington, D.C. – and all the agencies and policy centers located there – gives students an opportunity to gain immense practical experience while in school,” he says. “All of this adds to the quality of the education, increasing the value of your Mason experience. I came to Mason with high expectations of the school and myself, and the entire Mason community has helped me meet and exceed anything I thought possible just two years ago.” Not surprisingly, Andrew has taken full advantage of law and policy and classroom instruction and field work. After completing two successful internships in law and policy, Andrew moved into a full time position on Capitol Hill with Congressman Bishop. Mason’s flexible programming enabled Andrew to switch between full and part-time courses to accommodate his professional pursuits.

Above all else, Andrew cites the people as the defining aspect of Scalia Law. “The professors and faculty are genuinely interested in helping each student grow personally and professionally,” he says. “It is the quality of my peers, however, that truly sets Mason apart. Mason is a true community, and it is reflected every day in how classmates interact with each other. Whether it is helping a fellow student understand a case, study for a class, succeed in an extracurricular activity, or find a job, Mason students are there for each other. Law school has its ups and downs, and being surrounded by friends who help you through your academic and personal challenges will make your three years immensely better.”