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Congratulations to the Schulich School of Law’s Class of 2026!

In the coming weeks, we’ll feature Q&As with graduating law students who will reflect on their time at Weldon. Today we're talking to Josh Hutchinson.

Why did you want to attend the Schulich School of Law?

I wanted to attend Schulich Law because of its strong reputation for community and collegiality, as well as its extensive alumni network spread across Canada.

While I was born and raised in Northern Ontario, my mom's side of the family is from the East Coast, and some of my fondest childhood memories are of visiting family in Nova Scotia. I really wanted to come back to explore Halifax as an adult and experience life here as a student.

In what ways were you involved with the law school community?

Throughout my time at Weldon, I was involved in several student societies, including the Environmental Law Students’ Society (ELSS), the Dalhousie Black Law Students' Association (DBLSA), and the Domus Legis Society.

In my final year, I had the pleasure of serving on the executive committee of the Law Students’ Society (LSS) as vice president, Student Life. This role allowed me to immerse myself in the law school community and get to know many students studying in the years below me, which I sincerely enjoyed.

What does the Weldon Tradition mean to you?

To me, the Weldon Tradition is about giving back to one’s community. When I started at Schulich Law, I was struck by the commitment of students, faculty, and staff, to make the school a stronger, more welcoming, and inclusive place. That encouraged me to do the same as I progressed through law school.

Our shared commitment to the Weldon Tradition makes our school stand out from others. So many of the Schulich Law graduates I've encountered remain dedicated to giving back to the communities in which they practise across Canada.

What is your favourite law school memory?

It is hard to pick just one favourite memory, but one that really stands out is Orientation Week when I was a 1L. It was exciting to explore a new city while simultaneously getting to know so many people who quickly became my closest friends.

I am also grateful to have had the opportunity to help lead the planning of the orientation program for incoming law students this past September as part of my role with the LSS. It was rewarding to watch them be introduced to the city and community that has given me so much.

What will you miss most about Schulich Law?

I will miss the day-to-day interactions, conversations, and chance encounters in the Weldon Law Building. It was such a privilege to attend school with so many brilliant people, and I will miss bonding over the highs and lows of the law student experience. It was also amazing to live in the same city as many of my closest friends and to see them every day.

What are your post-graduation plans?

After graduation, I will be heading back to my hometown of Thunder Bay, Ontario, to relax, spend time with friends and family, and enjoy the outdoors. Later this summer, I am looking forward to moving to Toronto to article at Smockum Zarnett LLP.