Pre-Law Student Uses 3+3 Program to Accelerate Path to Law School

Pre-Law Student Uses 3+3 Program to Accelerate Path to Law School

Elijah Cook-Klockowski is turning ambition into action as he prepares for a future in law.

A Toledo native majoring in environmental studies with a pre-law concentration, Cook-Klockowski arrived at The University of Toledo with a clear goal: attend law school.

Through the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and the College of Law's 3+3 Pre-Law Admission Program, he has been accepted for early admission. The program allows him to begin law school during what would traditionally be his senior year, earning both his bachelor's and law degrees on an accelerated timeline.

In the classroom, Cook-Klockowski has focused on understanding the "why" behind concepts, consistently connecting his studies to real-world legal applications - particularly at the intersection of environmental issues and policy.

"My success at UToledo is a direct reflection of the support around me - my peers who motivated me every day and my faculty mentors who challenged and guided me to define and pursue my goals," Cook-Klockowski said. "Each professor has contributed in a different way, and I'm thankful for every one of them."

Dr. Todd Crail, a Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Environmental Sciences, emphasized Cook-Klockowski's commitment and purpose within the program.

"Eli has been exemplary in his demonstration of the Power To Do within the environmental studies degree program," Crail said. "He entered the program with a clear goal of becoming an environmental lawyer and has fully engaged in his coursework and experiences to pursue that path.

"Eli is particularly drawn to the intersection of environmental justice and social justice, firmly believing these two concepts are deeply intertwined," he added. "He works every day toward his goal of expanding access and amplifying the voices of those who are unable to speak for themselves."

Outside the classroom, Cook-Klockowski has found community through UToledo's club baseball team, where he takes pride in contributing to a positive experience for new members.

Balancing academics, extracurriculars and a part-time job has strengthened his time management and resilience.

One moment that captures his college experience came during a spring break trip with the team - completing homework in Panama City Beach, Florida.

"That's exactly what college is," he said. "Balancing responsibility and enjoying the experience."

As he looks ahead, Cook-Klockowski will continue at UToledo's College of Law, building on the strong foundation he has developed.

"Any opportunity you get - try it," he said. "You at least have to try."