Seton Hall Summer Law Academy Offers Early Look at Legal Studies and Career Pathways

Seton Hall University is launching a new Summer Law Academy designed to introduce high school students to the foundations of the legal system and the broad range of careers within the legal profession. The week-long, enrichment program will take place July 20–24, 2026, on the University’s main campus in South Orange, New Jersey, with a field trip to Seton Hall’s Law School in Newark. Through a blend of interactive instruction and experiential learning, participants will examine the fundamentals of civil and criminal law, explore how laws are created and gain exposure to primary sources of law, including cases and statutes.

The Summer Law Academy will immerse students in the study of legal principles through classroom discussions, case study analysis, mock trials, courtroom visits and guest lectures from practicing legal professionals. Participants will explore foundational topics in constitutional law and criminal law. The program is structured to help students develop critical thinking, research and communication skills while offering a realistic introduction to legal education and practice.

The Academy will be led by Professor Adam Goguen, whose academic and professional background reflects both international legal experience and a strong commitment to student mentorship. Goguen currently teaches Introduction to Law and Legal Research I and The U.S. Constitution and will soon teach courses focused on Common Law and Statutory Law. His connection to Seton Hall is deeply personal, having first attended the University as an undergraduate student in the School of Diplomacy and International Relations.

Goguen’s career trajectory shifted during his undergraduate studies, leading him to focus on international legal development. “I became interested in the United Nations,” he said, “and this ultimately led to an eleven-year career working on law reform and legal education in Africa.” His work with the United Nations Development Programme and the International Development Law Organization took him to Sierra Leone and South Sudan, where he helped establish law schools and support legal reform initiatives. His global perspective informs his teaching and provides students with insight into how law, governance and diplomacy intersect in diverse international contexts.

For Goguen, introducing younger students to the study of law is particularly meaningful. He traces his passion for teaching to his time in law school, when he helped lead a program that taught high school students about legal concepts. “Watching other people become excited about topics you find fascinating is a joy,” he said. “Helping students as they plan their early career is extremely rewarding.” Through the Summer Law Academy, Seton Hall aims to inspire the next generation of legal professionals by providing students with early exposure to the discipline while encouraging them to explore ambitious academic and career pathways in law and public service.

Enrollment for the Summer Law Academy is now open. Interested students and families can find more information and register through the Seton Hall Pre-College Summer Courses portal, Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from distinguished faculty and legal professionals while experiencing life on a vibrant college campus.

Categories: Education, Law