Mitchell Kominsky, JD‘08
Name: Mitchell Kominsky, JD‘08 |
Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
What undergraduate school did you attend and what major did you choose?
I performed my undergraduate work at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.
Ever since I was a kid, I loved reading and learning about American history. Thus when I entered college, it only made sense to focus my studies, and major in History.
When did you realize you wanted to become an attorney?
The realization came years ago. I remember watching the final courtroom scene from my favorite movie, “A Few Good Men” (You can’t handle the truth!), and at that point, I knew I wanted to attend law school, learn the law, and become skilled at making powerful arguments.
Did your parents have any influence in your decision to attend law school?
Definitely. My parents have always emphasized the importance of education. They are wonderful and would have supported any professional route I chose to pursue.
Describe what you do in a typical day at work.
Each and every day is different. Typically I advise Members of the U.S. House of Representatives on an array of legal and policy matters. Additionally, I am largely responsible for Congressional investigations, as well as preparing Members for Congressional Hearings.
Were you planning on working on Capitol Hill when you first entered law school?
Absolutely not, though it’s important to note that I entered law school with an open mind. Even if you think you are entirely cognizant of what you want upon entering law school, I think it is a critical mistake to take a narrow view of potential opportunities.
Looking back at your time at UM Law what are some of your most memorable moments?
Some of the best times I had were discussing/debating cases and legal theory with my 1L Section (D!).
Also, I have great memories from my 1L Section’s intramural basketball team. During my 2L year, our team reached the play-offs and our opponent was the University of Miami Football team. Our intramural team, composed of future lawyers, was matched against now-NFL players, including Greg Olsen, Brandon Merriweather, and Calais Campbell. Still, their gargantuan size and talent did not intimidate us. We dominated the UM Football Team.
Who were your favorite professors at UM Law and why?
Two of my favorites were Professors Erik Scharf and Professor Donald Jones. They genuinely cared about their students and provided a solid foundation for spirited classroom discussion.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of your job?
My position requires that I am simultaneously an expert on a large number of issues, ranging from immigration to homeland security to improper financial accounting by government agencies. Thus, my role is exciting, but also demanding.
It’s incredibly rewarding when I have advised a Congressman and their advocacy, based on my advice, influences public policy, a law, or is quoted in national newspapers.
How did the City of Miami play into your decision to attend UM Law?
Miami is an amazing city that offers an unparalleled experience.
What’s the biggest difference between Miami and Washington?
The weather, for better or worse.
Which living person do you admire the most?
Lebron James.
Do you think television and movies portray lawyers accurately?
Generally speaking, no, however, some of the best trial lawyers could probably obtain work in Hollywood.
What advice do you have for people who are unsure about going to law school?
It’s a difficult and important decision that is surrounded by numerous complexities. Do not attend law school for the wrong reasons. Evaluate all of your options. Evaluate if the investment (financial, academic and emotional) meets your goals.
What advice do you have for 2009 graduates?
First, earning a J.D. opens a wide variety of doors. Remember, you can graduate from law school and not practice law. There are, in fact, many available career paths. Second, wherever you work, whether it’s at a firm or for the government, your first priority is to make your boss look good. Don’t settle. Set clear goals and try your hardest to attain them.
What was the last movie you saw? What was the last book you read?
Movie: Bruno – shocking, in good and bad ways.
Book: The Trial, by Franz Kafka.
What’s your favorite Miami neighborhood and why?
South Beach. It’s like no other place in the world.
If you were not a lawyer what would you be?
Executive Chef/Restaurant Owner.
What is the best thing about having a law degree?
Lawyers are a societal necessity. A law degree never goes out of style.
Posted: 9/21/09
