DeLone Dawisha was afraid to pursue a law degree for fear of failure
By Sheila Pursglove
Legal News
DeLone Dawisha started his career path with an undergraduate degree in biology at Wayne State University, taught physics as a supplemental instruction leader, conducted research in laboratories and volunteered in medical clinics. But, as meaningful as these experiences were, he realized that a career in the medical field wasn’t for him.
His true interest, from a young age, was the law—but he had been afraid to heed that calling because of uncertainty and fear of failure.
“I eventually realized you must take responsibility for what it is you want to create in life, and decided to go to law school,” he says. “Although it wasn’t an easy decision, and many people tried to talk me out of it, I didn’t let the noise of others drown out my inner voice. I envisioned myself succeeding as a lawyer, and I knew I would enjoy legal work.”
Clearly it was the right choice. Now a rising 3L at Wayne Law, Dawisha has participated in Moot Court and the Transactional Law Competition, and served as an assistant editor on the Wayne Law Review, where he recently was elected to serve as media and technology editor.
“These experiences have helped me fine-tune my writing and editing skills and build lasting relationships with my classmates,” he says. “I wanted to practice law in Michigan and I knew Wayne Law’s strong alumni network would help me achieve this goal,” he adds.
He also appreciated the extensive experience of his professors in teaching and practicing law, and a curriculum geared towards providing practical experience.
His particular focus is corporate law, an interest piqued by growing up around business people and frequently finding himself at the center of their business discussions.
“There are many legal issues that come up in business formation and the interactions between business entities, so there is always demand for attorneys who are able to effectively advise clients,” he says.
Working as a summer associate at Honigman solidified this interest.
“I’ve worked on many unique corporate assignments. It’s been an extraordinary experience and I’ve learned a great deal from the attorneys,” he says. “My goal is to progress within the firm and some day bring in my own clients.”
He also enjoyed seeing the application of law in real-time during last summer’s internship for U.S. District Court Judge Mark Goldsmith in Detroit.
“It was an opportunity to learn from a great legal mind,” he says. “Judge Goldsmith and his law clerks extensively reviewed my writing and helped develop my skills in legal research and drafting.”
The son of Iraqi immigrants, Dawisha is a proud member of the Chaldean community in Metro Detroit.
“Many tragedies have befallen the Chaldean people, including genocide and diaspora, but our story is one of perseverance,” he says. “We’ve built strong communities in the United States and throughout the world. Both my parents immigrated to the United States when they were very young, and they taught me early on the value of hard work and dedication. I credit them with much of my success.”
A native of West Bloomfield where he still makes his home today, Dawisha is a big fan of the Motor City area.
“Detroit has a unique style that no other city comes close to rivaling—through thick and thin, it has always remained true to itself,” he says. “The city is experiencing a great comeback. Some of the best business people are making big investments in this city and I’m excited to see where things will go from here.”
Leisure time pursuits include bodybuilding, a sport Dawisha has enjoyed for the past six years.
“It has taught me about the importance of consistency in life,” he says. “When I started out, I wasn’t very muscular and couldn’t bench press much weight. I’ve since transformed my body and more than doubled the weight I bench press. I only see more room for growth in the future.”
He also enjoys exploring other cities and countries, including two weeks traveling across Thailand in January, a March visit to New York City, and an upcoming three-week journey across Colombia.
“Travel gives me the opportunity to experience different cultures and gain a deeper understanding of my place in the world,” he says.
––––––––––––––––––––
Subscribe to the Legal News!
http://legalnews.com/Home/Subscription
Full access to public notices, articles, columns, archives, statistics, calendar and more
Day Pass Only $4.95!
One-County $80/year
Three-County & Full Pass also available
