From page to policy: An English grad’s path to law school

Reflecting on her undergraduate journey, Spring 2025 Bachelor of Arts graduate Emma Winram shares how her studies went hand in hand with her extracurricular activities and how they have led her to the next exciting chapter in her life. The Faculty of Arts caught up with Winram to ask about her time in in the Faculty of Arts and what’s ahead.

Faculty of Arts: What degree and program are you graduating with?

Emma Winram: A Bachelor of Arts in English, with a minor in philosophy. I chose this program because I’ve always loved reading English literature and philosophical texts, and I wanted to improve my writing and argumentative skills at the university level. It also complements nicely with my wish to attend law school. One key piece of knowledge I will take away from my studies is learning to critically analyze texts, arguments and other forms of media I face in my everyday life.

Did you explore any writing opportunities outside of class?

I worked for The Manitoban as a copy editor this past year, working late nights preparing the paper for print and editing/fact-checking articles every weekend—it was an unforgettable experience. I also had the privilege of attending NASH87: Canada’s Largest Student Journalism Conference in Hamilton, ON in February where I met enthusiastic student journalists and professionals. It was an amazing networking experience. My time at The Manitoban improved my writing skills significantly, allowing me to formulate better essays for my classes and build communication skills that will stick with me for the rest of my life.

Were you involved in any student groups?

I was involved with the University of Manitoba Pre-Law Society for a few years and served in multiple roles. This year I served as Vice President. Through hosting many events like law student/lawyer panels, networking events and free LSAT prep workshops, we were able to bring our membership up from 40 members in September to around 300 by April! The connections and the skills I have built from being a part of this club have made my undergraduate experience invaluable.

Describe a challenge you encountered during your undergrad?

A challenge I dealt with was making sure to manage my time efficiently while prioritizing my mental health. Being so involved on campus and juggling my schoolwork was a lot to fit into my schedule. I kept reminding myself that this work would pay off in the end and that my busy schedule was only temporary. It helped that I had good friends who were also a part of the teams I was involved in, and I had endless support from my family. I would not have been able to do it all without them.

Any big plans for after graduation?

I have been chosen as one of six people for the Manitoba Legislative Assembly Internship Program for the 2025/26 year, starting in September and running until June. My duties as an intern will be receiving assignments and direction from my assigned Caucus. Some of the tasks I may be performing are short and long-term research projects, writing briefing papers, handling constituency matters, writing questions for Question Period, and other clerical tasks. There is also an academic component where I will be attending seminars and writing a research paper. I hope to understand the process of passing a Bill more extensively and be involved with the process as that will only help me in my planned future legal career here in Manitoba.

Winram will convocate along with fellow Faculty of Arts undergraduate students in two ceremonies on June 4, 2025.

Learn more about the departments of English, Theatre, Film & Media and Philosophy in the Faculty of Arts.

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UM Bisons are at the centre of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. 3058 degrees are being awarded at Spring Convocation 2025 (over 620 are from the Faculty of Arts), bringing the total number of UM graduates to 4200 so far this year. Many of these new alumni will stay in Manitoba, supplying high-demand skills to the labour market and contributing to UM’s $7.3 billion economic impact on our community.

Editor’s note: Faculty of Arts students have been selected for the Manitoba Legislative Assembly Internship Program almost every year since its inception. Since 1985, over 200 individuals have served as Legislative Interns, with many going on to careers in law, senior levels of the Civil Service, public advocacy groups, the business sector, NGOs, academia and elected officials.

Hila Graf