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Titans Win at Moot Court Regional Competition, Advance to Nationals

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Two Cal State Fullerton students will advance to the 2019 American Moot Court Association National Tournament Jan. 12-13 in Orlando, Florida, after garnering trophies at the Western Regional Moot Court Competition Nov. 30-Dec. 1 in Fresno, California.

In Moot Court, a simulation of an appellate court proceeding, students argue a hypothetical legal case. Students are judged on their knowledge of the case, response to questioning, forensic skills and their demeanor.

Rana Salem and Claire Jenkins, who placed second overall at the regional competition and will represent CSUF at the nationals, prepared arguments on a hypothetical law school’s admissions policy that prefers male applicants.

Salem and Jenkins spent approximately 10-15 hours a week between September and November practicing their arguments for the Western Regional.

“This is the second year that I have participated in Moot Court, and I feel that I have grown tremendously in my public speaking and writing ability,” said Salem, a senior psychology major.

“Moot Court requires you to step outside of your comfort zone and really experiment with advocacy and creation of unique arguments,” said Salem, who plans to pursue a career as a prosecuting attorney. “I feel far more prepared for law school and a career in the legal field.”

Jenkins, a junior majoring in political science and history, said that joining Moot Court was one of the best decisions she has made since attending Cal State Fullerton.

“My two years in the program have made me realize that I am incredibly passionate about the law and that it is the right the career path for me,” said Jenkins. “In this program, I have made friends that I will have for life, learned skills that will propel me toward my career goals, all while participating in personal growth.”

Six other Titans took home trophies at the Western Regional, including: Julian Pina and Vivian Tran, who won the tournament’s first-place and third-place speaking awards, respectively; Andrea Poma and Alexandra Tunaru, who placed sixth; and Alyssa Rogan and Marc Anthony Basurto Avila, who placed seventh.

“I am so proud of our work in the program,” said Pamela Fiber-Ostrow, professor of political science and CSUF’s Moot Court team adviser. “We have built an extraordinary reputation as a top-notch Moot Court team, showcasing the talents and abilities of our students.”