Tim Moosbrugger ’17 J.D.
Becoming a lawyer is a family tradition for Tim Moosbrugger, to say the least. When prompted, the Princeton, Minnesota, native will check off a long list of lawyers before him: his great-grandfather, grandfather, uncle and father among them. But for Moosbrugger, law school is about more than tradition – it’s about service.
“I was inspired by my dad and the way he practices law,” Moosbrugger said of his decision to become a lawyer. “He’s a criminal defense lawyer, and he has always helped clients by encouraging them to participate in recovery programs or finding other ways they could make lasting improvements in their lives. That made a huge impact on me and my belief that helping others through a legal career would be a very fulfilling way to serve others.”
While studying philosophy and Catholic studies at the University of St. Thomas as an undergraduate student, Moosbrugger realized that most of his friends were in seminary, and he knew that wasn’t the right path for him. He learned about the university’s Tommie Law Early Admission Program, which allows undergraduate students to apply for law school during their junior year and skip the LSAT altogether, and opted to take advantage of the program.
“Coming from undergrad here at St. Thomas, I hoped the law professors would take a similar interest in my development – academically, professionally and personally – and I’ve definitely found that as a law student,” Moosbrugger said. “I’ve been very impressed by the entire St. Thomas community. There are so many people who are open and willing to share their viewpoints and thoughts with you, even if they don’t agree with you. It’s a great place to be.”
With his first semester of law school behind him, Moosbrugger is taking the time to soak it all in.
“I’m learning so much right now, so it’s important to me that I keep a lot of opportunities open,” he said. “Criminal law is a major interest of mine, and I’ve already connected with professors about summer clerkship opportunities and clinics. But ultimately I’d just like to learn how I can apply my talents and contribute my service to the legal field.”
