Braden Kundert '21

Braden Kundert

Class Year

’21

Current home

Madison, Wisconsin

Major(s)

Political Science and History

Current Position

Law Student at the University of Wisconsin Law School and Legal Extern-Criminal Appeals Unit at the Wisconsin Department of Justice

Braden Kundert is a law student at the University of Wisconsin Law School and a legal extern at the Wisconsin Department of Justice Criminal Appeals Unit. As a legal extern, he helps the assistant attorney general with legal research and writes briefs for the Wisconsin Court of Appeals on a variety of criminal matters. Mr. Kundert says the professors at Carthage helped him master key skills needed to pursue law.

“Being challenged by my professors helped me improve my reading, writing, and research skills, which have been critical to me in law school. The ability to write clearly and succinctly about complex issues is a skill I use every day.”

Braden Kundert, ’21

What have you enjoyed most about your career?

“I have enjoyed being able to work in public service and use my skills to give back to the community. Law school has been an incredible opportunity to not only learn about the law, but to be able to get hands-on experience in it.”

How did Carthage prepare you?

“Being challenged by my professors helped me improve my reading, writing, and research skills, which have been critical to me in law school. The ability to write clearly and succinctly about complex issues is a skill I use every day.”

How has your liberal arts education benefitted you?

“Critical thinking is a crucial part of legal analysis. Carthage professors taught me how to think about issues in more than one way and how to solve problems using multiple approaches. I used these skills in classes, and I use them now when constructing legal arguments to make my position clear and persuasive.”

Why did you choose Carthage?

“I chose Carthage because of the small class sizes and the opportunity to really get to know my professors. Building relationships with so many professors, staff, and other students was invaluable.”

What opportunities were made possible because of your Carthage experience?

“Carthage clubs like Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity and Model United Nations gave me experience and insight into the law school admissions process, law school itself, and the legal field. It allowed me to connect with attorneys and judges from all over the area and offered opportunities to get involved in pro bono legal work while I was still in college.”

What Carthage professors played a part in your success and how?

“Relationships with faculty and staff members have been so important. From helping me with classwork and assignments to writing recommendation letters and advising student orgs, they played a key role in my Carthage career. Specifically, I would like to thank professors Thomas Powers, Stephanie Mitchell, Jeffrey Roberg, Eric Pullin, Paul Ulrich, Jerald Mast, Ellen Hauser, and John Leazer, as well as Pastor Kara Baylor and Debbie Clark in the Center for Faith and Spirituality.”

What role have the values in Carthage's mission, "Seeking Truth, Building Strength, Inspiring Service — Together" played in your life?

“I have always tried to use my education to help others. Working in law has been a great way to do something I love while also working to make the world a better place. Collaborating with coworkers and colleagues to learn and improve my skills lets me advance in my career.”

What's your favorite Carthage memory?

“Some of my favorite memories are of hanging out in the Center for Faith and Spirituality office. I also loved campaigning with the Carthage Democrats, traveling to and hosting conferences with Model UN, and going to weekly History Department lunches.”

Tips for current Carthage students?

“Make sure you take advantage of the opportunities at Carthage. Get involved in clubs and get to know your professors. Being involved on campus helped me grow skills for my career, make new friends, and get involved in the local community.”


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