Paying It Forward: Marley Peterson Mentors Future Attorneys as Wake Forest Law Alumni Bar Coach

Marley Peterson

Marley Peterson, a government relations attorney based in Ward and Smith's Raleigh office, is stepping up to give back to her alma mater in a meaningful way.

As a proud graduate of Wake Forest University School of Law, she is serving as an Alumni Bar Coach (ABC) for two upcoming graduates preparing to take the North Carolina Bar Exam this summer.

The ABC Program at Wake Forest Law pairs new graduates with experienced alumni to help them through the bar exam process. This program offers mentorship, support, and practical advice, guiding graduates from the application phase through exam preparation.

For Marley, becoming a mentor was an easy choice.  She remembers being in their shoes, nervous about the bar exam, and benefiting greatly from her own bar coach's support. Now, she’s sharing her experiences and advice to help new lawyers succeed.

“I remember how stressful it was preparing for the bar exam, and the guidance from my own bar coach was crucial to my bar passage,” Marley shared. “It's incredibly rewarding to give back and help others feel more prepared and confident as they take on this challenge.”

Before starting as a mentor, Marley completed training to ensure she could offer the best support. Now, she meets with her mentees over Zoom, helping them with the application and character and fitness process.

As the bar exam approaches in late July, Marley will increase her support. Starting mid-May, she will meet weekly with her mentees to offer encouragement, practical tips, and strategies.

The Wake Forest Law ABC Program is in its second year and is open to all Wake Forest Law graduates, with 70 mentees participating this year. For more information about the Program, click here.

Subscribe to Ward and Smith