About this Event
Join NEBLSA for the Upstate New York Academic Retreat on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, hosted in partnership with Barclay Damon.
This year’s theme, “Forged for the Future: Elevating Excellence in Law and Leadership” sets the tone for an empowering day of learning, mentorship, and connection. Whether you are a pre-law student exploring your path, a 1L navigating your first year, or an upper-level law student preparing for the bar, this retreat is designed with you in mind.
Highlights include:
- Workshops led by professors and advisors on thriving in law school
- A diverse panel of judges, corporate attorneys, and legal professionals
- Networking opportunities with peers and mentors
- Tabling sessions with Themis and BARBRI for academic and bar prep resources
- Complimentary breakfast and lunch
- Professional headshots available for all attendees
Best of all, this entire retreat is free for students. Do not miss this opportunity to strengthen your skills, expand your network, and gain tools for success in law school and beyond.
Agenda
🕑: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Breakfast and Registration
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:15 AM
Welcome & Introductions
🕑: 09:15 AM - 10:05 AM
The Pre-Law Pivot: Demystifying the Admissions Process
🕑: 09:15 AM - 10:05 AM
Laying the Foundation: Introduction to Legal Learning (1L)
🕑: 09:15 AM - 10:05 AM
The 2L Strategy: Aligning Academics and Aspirations (2L)
🕑: 09:15 AM - 10:05 AM
The Final Stretch: Balance and Resilience during Bar Prep (3L/4L)
🕑: 10:10 AM - 11:00 AM
Positioned in Your Purpose: Building Your Professional Identity (1L/Pre-Law)
🕑: 10:10 AM - 11:00 AM
Ahead of the Curve: Staying the Course for the NY Bar (2L)
🕑: 10:10 AM - 11:00 AM
Trailblazers in Transition: Entering The Legal Profession (3L/4L)
🕑: 11:05 AM - 12:00 PM
Brother to Brother
🕑: 11:05 AM - 12:00 PM
Sister to Sister
🕑: 12:00 PM - 12:50 PM
Lunch and Headshots
🕑: 01:00 PM - 01:55 PM
The Road Ahead: Power in Perspective and Unlocking Your Potential
🕑: 01:55 PM - 02:00 PM
Closing Remarks
🕑: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Onsite Networking
Event venue & nearby stays
125 E Jefferson St, 125 East Jefferson Street, Syracuse, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.