Coffee & Q&A with CLJ professors

An easy, low-pressure way to meet faculty, ask questions, and learn more about classes, research, internships, and law school. If you’ve ever wanted to introduce yourself to a professor outside of class or get clarity on what to do next, this is precisely for you.

We’ll meet on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM in BSB 4051. Coffee/tea and donuts will be available. 

This GBM will feature Professor William McCarty and Professor Rahim Kurwa, who will be there to talk with students and answer questions—whether you’re trying to plan next semester, explore research, look for internships, or map out a path toward law school or other post-grad options.

RSVP here: https://forms.gle/HZo3CxBNzJXqnNVu9

If you’re worried you don’t have anything to ask, you do. Think of this as a chance to get real guidance on decisions you’re already making—what courses to take, what opportunities are worth your time, and what experiences actually help for internships, research, law school, or other post-grad plans. It’s completely fine to come with just one or two questions.

A quick way to prep is to spend two minutes deciding what you want out of the conversation. 

• Are you trying to choose your next CLJ class? 

• Interested in research but don’t know how to start? 

• Looking for internships and want to know what’s realistic? 

• Planning for law school and want to understand what matters most? 

If you want question starters, here are a few you can use in the moment: 

• What class do you recommend for someone interested in ___? 

• What’s the best way for an undergrad to get involved in research? 

• What skills or experiences make students stand out for internships? 

• For students considering law school, what should they prioritize during undergrad? 

• What’s one thing you wish students knew earlier about the CLJ major?

Meet the professors

Rahim Kurwa (CLJ; Sociology affiliate) researches the intersection of policing and housing, including how policies and enforcement shape racial segregation. He is the author of Indefensible Spaces: Policing and the Struggle for Housing(University of California Press). 

William McCarty (CLJ) teaches and researches criminal justice organizations and policing, including topics like police supervision and officer wellness/stress. He also leads undergraduate-focused work in the department (Director of Undergraduate Studies) and is closely involved in student opportunities and advising.

After the event

If you connect with a professor, send a short thank-you email after—one or two sentences is enough. Mention something specific you talked about and (if relevant) ask one follow-up question or request to stop by office hours. It’s a simple way to build relationships that can help with advising, opportunities, and future recommendation letters.

We hope you’ll join us—bring a friend, come say hi, and leave with more precise next steps.