December 2, 2020

Vermont Law School students are changemakers. Mission Scholarships offered by VLS support students who want to use the power of the law to make a difference in their communities and the world. Mission Scholarships are available to students pursuing careers in public service/social justice, and environmental stewardship—the core values of the Vermont Law School education.

Meet Current Mission Scholar: Nathan Carrier JD’21

Nathan Carrier
Nathan Carrier JD’21

I chose to attend Vermont Law School (VLS) because it has the best environmental law program in the country. Since its founding, the school has been nationally recognized for its cutting-edge curriculum and clinics. And VLS is continuing this tradition with its expanding Restorative Justice Program, new Environmental Justice Clinic, and impressive Energy Clinic. I also chose to attend VLS because its students and faculty are on a mission. You really need to see it to believe it. The students are incredibly driven and bright, and the professors are always there for their students. VLS is a very special place.

As a Mission Scholar, I’m focusing on energy law and policy. Right now, I am concluding my Semester in Practice (SIP) with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Office of Administrative Law Judges (which has led to a post-graduate job at FERC). Once I finish my SIP, I will continue my law review research on the impacts that data privacy laws may have on the development of the smart grid. I will present my research findings during my Mission Scholar Lightning Talk in April 2021.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been deeply concerned about environmental degradation. This concern led me to study environmental politics in undergrad, be politically active, and ultimately apply for the Mission Scholarship. In my Mission Scholarship application, I detailed my longstanding commitment to the environment, public service, and innovation—and VLS recognized that commitment.

Scholarship Benefits

  • $3,000 Public Service Internship Stipend
  • Targeted Academic Advising
  • Scholar Dinners and Events

Scholarship Tracks:

  • Environmental: Present a cutting-edge environmental research paper as part of the Environmental Mission Scholar Lightning Talk lecture series; priority access to VLS environmental law clinics.
  • Social Justice: Leadership roles in pro bono legal service and projects.

Application Deadline:
April 1, 2021

Learn More