Serving
Others
When asked what he likes the most about teaching at Boston
College, Frank Garcia talks about the School’s tradition of excellence,
the Jesuit heritage of intellectual rigor and social responsibility, and the
sincerity and high scholarly achievement of the faculty. But what really energizes
him is the kind of students BC Law attracts, and their commitment to justice.
“I've never worked with a better blend of ability, humanity and personality,”
he says. “So many of our students are personally committed to making a
positive contribution to a more just society. BC law students are not like other
law students, and I am proud to be a part of bringing these kinds of lawyers
into the world.”
Garcia tries to avoid lecturing in his classes, choosing to teach through discussion
and student involvement as much as possible. He feels that thinking and communicating
effectively for others in a public setting is essential for a successful lawyer.
All of his classes involve a significant oral project usually done as part of
a student team, which builds a strong sense of camaraderie and shared accomplishment.
“I work very hard to encourage conversation and intellectual risk-taking,
and will call on people only as a last resort,” he says. “I'd like
to think that students feel respected as people, as future lawyers, and as thinking
members of society.”
One of the most satisfying parts of Garcia’s job is helping students identify
appropriate summer and term-time opportunities in his area of expertise, international
economic relations. “I want to help them chart a course towards that dream
job,” he says. “As the network of BC students I've trained who land
these jobs grows larger, the momentum builds on itself in a very exciting way.”