Challenging himself has become a way of life for Tyler Sparrow, a 2011 Suffolk University Law School graduate and former member of the U.S. Marine Corps.

“Going from the military to college was a very drastic change, and some uncertainty came with that, and the same thing going from undergrad to law school,” he says. “I think each step was a new challenge.”

After serving his country for more than four years and finishing his undergraduate education, Sparrow was determined to further his studies at Suffolk Law, building upon the life lessons he had learned in the military.

“I thought it was the best fit for me,” he said. “I really wanted to be in Boston, and the practical experience that people gain from Suffolk Law is important to me. It was a very easy decision.”

Academics and friendships

Sparrow, who graduated cum laude, described his professors as “phenomenal” and his fellow students as “a great group of friends.”

“Attending Suffolk Law was such a positive experience for me,” he said.

Sparrow said that some of what he was taught as a Marine, such as “taking responsibility for your actions” and “developing a good work ethic” helped him while pursuing his law degree. He was focused in all of his classes, absorbing as much knowledge as possible, striving to succeed.

Clerkship

Sparrow’s next challenge will be serving as clerk to the Hon. Richard J. Leon of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Sparrow had interned with Leon, a 1974 graduate of Suffolk Law School, while studying law.

He aims to be someone who has a positive impact on society.

“I do think I’ll make a difference, and, if I may be so bold, I think I’ve made a difference already, to some extent. What that difference will be, I can’t say that I know yet.”