Finding purpose through real-world experience

SA1L gave Noel Ongpauco the chance to turn his passion into purpose.

By Veronika Bryskiewicz

Noel Ongpauco

Helping others has always been at the heart of Noel Ongpauco's ambitions. That's what led him to law school—and to Western. 

In first year, Noel participated in a moot court competition—a simulated courtroom proceeding where law students argue real legal cases before judges—centered on a medical malpractice case. The practicing lawyers who coached him opened his eyes to something powerful: how much of a difference legal advocates can make in people’s lives. 

"It was really inspiring," Noel recalls. "That's something I want to do. That's the kind of impact I want to have." 

Like many first-year law students, Noel faced the challenge of gaining practical experience. That's where Western's Summer After 1L (SA1L) program made all the difference. 

"SA1L was a big driver in my decision to come to Western," Noel explains. The program guarantees meaningful paid legal work for first-year students. "That made Western especially appealing." 

Bridging theory and practice

The program matches students' interests with appropriate placements. "I got matched with the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, which was a great fit for my interests in litigation and legal research." The experience gave Noel hands-on exposure to advocacy work that aligned with his passion for civil rights. 

Noel is particularly interested in civil litigation, especially medical malpractice and personal injury law. He credits his SA1L placement with shaping his career trajectory.  

"SA1L was a big driver in my decision to come to Western. The program guarantees meaningful paid legal work for first-year students. That made Western especially appealing."


Noel understands that opportunities like SA1L don't happen without generous donor support. "I'm really grateful to the donors who make this program possible," he reflects. "Without that support, I wouldn't have had this experience that's been so formative for my career." 

Through giving to the Western Law Experiential Learning Fund, donors enable the law school to create opportunities that bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world practice—ensuring students like Noel can make a positive change from day one. 

"I want to help people who've been harmed or mistreated," Noel says. "That's the kind of impact I want to have." 

This story is featured in Western's 2025 Annual Impact publication.