Sydney Lisy

What is it about being a law school professor that inspires or motivates you?

Students’ successes! Working in student services, my main goal is to support Boyd students through resources, programming, and individual assistance. From helping the 1Ls figure out how to write their first exam answer to helping Boyd graduates figure out how to write a passing bar exam essay, I am equally excited about seeing those “Aha!” moments. But what is especially motivating is when I am challenged by a student’s question or issue. My efforts to help that student with what presents a challenge to me allows me to learn something new and improve the assistance I provide. I am one of the students’ biggest fans and coaches, ready to support them through their classes and ultimately pass the bar exam.  

What have you read, listened to, or watched recently that has influenced you or your work?

The Last Dance miniseries. I am a Chicago Bulls fan and was playing basketball during the 90s watching that team and those players. Watching the series, it was fun reliving those championship moments and the chaos that Dennis Rodman sometimes brought with him. I especially enjoyed learning what motivated Michael Jordan to win or achieve a goal and how he motivated the team. It is something I try to think about doing in my daily life. How can I “win” the day and be the best version of myself? How can I be better today than I was yesterday? How can I motivate others to “win” in life? Finally, Phil Jackson had the team practice mindfulness and meditation as part of their training to build mental strength and I have started to practice meditation and mindfulness daily.