Double Time at W&L Young alumna and current law student Cat Spencer '20, '23L shares her perspective on W&L and giving back.

Cat Spencer '20, '23L
May 6, 2021

Growing up outside of Richmond, I didn’t plan to go to college in Virginia. In fact, every other college I visited was out of state. I added W&L to the list during my college search because my parents were interested in what it had to offer and knew before I did that it would be a good fit. My plans changed when I stepped on campus. Hearing my tour guide talk about Mock Con, Fancy Dress, and all of the traditions that made W&L unique in addition to its academic reputation convinced me it was a school well worth my serious consideration. Ultimately I applied early decision, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

As I approached graduation I knew I wanted to attend law school, and as I considered what I wanted in a law program, I kept coming back to the values that shaped me during my undergraduate experience. I realized I didn’t need to look any further, and that I was exactly where I wanted to be. I am so proud to be a W&L alum, and I can’t wait to be a double-degree holder!

As both a young alumna and a current student, I am doubly grateful for all I have gained so far.

~ Cat Spencer ’20, ’23L

In my first year of W&L Law, I am grateful to be on campus, even as the university navigates the COVID-19 pandemic with the rest of the world. I’m not entirely sure where my legal career may end up, but I plan to work in the National Security sector of law, hopefully within the Department of Defense, one day. I will be spending the summer working in the Criminal Appeals Section of the Office of the Attorney General for Virginia with several W&L Law alumni. While the school hasn’t been able to host all of the events it would normally, I have loved being a part of this community. Our professors have worked tirelessly to make sure our experience is as close to normal as possible. I can’t wait to see what the next two years will hold and to get to know even more of my classmates!

While I was an undergraduate student, I worked as a Phonathon caller and supervisor. That experience gave me a better understanding and a deeper appreciation of the impact generosity has on W&L. The support our alumni and friends of the university provide is inspiring. Those generous donors have helped keep us on campus safely and ensure that we get the W&L experience we came here for. I know personally the value of those contributions, and I was happy to join in the effort.

I chose to make my Annual Fund gift unrestricted to support the areas of greatest need. I appreciated the option to direct my gift, and I think many fellow young alumni will be excited to support certain areas that are important to them. In the end, I feel my gift will help meet the challenges that COVID-19 has presented while ensuring future students enjoy their W&L experience to the fullest, just as I have. As both a young alumna and a current student, I am doubly grateful for all I have gained so far.