For James Greene ’23, the path to law school was clear from an early age. “I have wanted to be an attorney since elementary school and have been interested in politics my entire life,” he said. Choosing a Pre-Law/Political Science major in the University of West Florida’s College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities (CASSH) was a natural next step.
Greene graduated in Spring 2023 and is now attending Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law. He credits the College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities with preparing him for both the rigor of law school and the profession he has long envisioned.
The College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities at UWF prepared me for law school and my eventual career by providing a rigorous workload while also helping me fall in love with the American Judicial System. - James Greene
While at UWF, Greene balanced his academic goals with athletics and campus leadership. He played football for the University, serving as a quarterback, and was a member of the leadership team for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Football taught him the value of teamwork and humility. “I learned early on what it is to be a part of a team. I learned that everyone has a job and that for the team to be successful, everyone has to do their job with excellence. Regardless of whether you are the starting Quarterback or a scout team linebacker, everyone’s job is important to the team’s success.”
“My experience playing football in college was the second most sanctifying experience of my life (getting married to my wonderful wife Grace is the first),” Greene said. “The early mornings and long days are some of my fondest memories because of how much they taught me.”
He was also mentored by Head Coach Pete Shinnick and Offensive Coordinator Rudy Carlton, who he said were instrumental in shaping his character and leadership.
Through FCA, Greene found another avenue for leadership and purpose. The group’s goal, he said, was “to glorify God by making disciples of Christ on our campus.” Reflecting on his time at UWF, Greene shared advice his mother once gave him during a challenging football season: “J, UWF thought they needed another football player, but the Lord knew they needed you for a different reason.” That perspective, he said, helped him see that whatever career path he chose, he would be used for a greater purpose. Recognizing what he describes as a need for Christians in the legal field ultimately confirmed his decision to pursue law school.
In the classroom, Greene found the academic challenge he was looking for. He especially credits courses taught by Dr. David Ramsey in the Reubin O’D. Askew Department of Government.
Among the most influential courses were Constitutional Law: Federalism and the Separation of Powers; Constitutional Law: Individual Rights and Privileges; The Founder’s Constitution; and Foundations of American Jurisprudence. “Each of these classes were extremely impactful in my work ethic as a student, causing me to be prepared for class, engage in class, and prepare diligently for exams,” he said. He also credits Dr. Ramsey’s love for the American Judicial System and its foundation in English Common Law for inspiring his own passion.
My favorite classes I took while in CASSH had one thing in common: Dr. David Ramsey. Dr. Ramsey was hands down my favorite professor. His passion for the preservation of our law continues to impact me to this day. - James Greene
Now at Cumberland School of Law, Greene describes his experience as “incredible,” noting its unique combination of a healthy competitive environment and a family culture.
The preparation he received at the College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities has paid off. Greene is currently in the top 20% of his class and has competed in multiple trial advocacy competitions. As a 1L (first year of law school), he and his partner won the Parham H. Williams 1L Trial Competition hosted annually by Cumberland and placed third at a local firm’s closing argument competition.
“I say all of this not to brag but instead to advocate for how well CASSH and UWF prepared me for success,” he said. “I could not recommend CASSH and specifically the Department of Government more.”
For current and prospective law students, Greene offers practical advice: take a Constitutional Law course, especially with Dr. Ramsey, and get a firsthand look at what law school is really like. Greene shared that these classes do a great job of giving students a close sense of what law school is like. He also recommends visiting a law school and sitting in on a class, "You probably don’t want your first class experience to be on your first day of school!”
From the football field to the courtroom, Greene’s journey reflects the blend of discipline, leadership, and intellectual rigor fostered at the CASSH and the Reubin O.D' Askew Department of Government.
Learn more about the Political Science B.A. with Pre-Law Specialization.
