For many professionals, the idea of returning to school can feel like a big step, especially when it means changing career paths. But for Jill McClure, earning her Master of Legal Studies (MLS) from Seattle University School of Law became the catalyst for a rewarding new career in compliance, investigations, and collegiate athletics.
Today, Jill serves as the Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance at Eastern New Mexico University, where she ensures athletic programs adhere to the complex regulatory framework of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Her journey into the world of sports compliance and risk management is a powerful example of how the right graduate program can open unexpected doors.
Rediscovering a Longstanding Passion for Law
Jill’s interest in the legal field began early. “I have wanted to go to law school since I was nine,” she shares. While her path initially led her in a different direction, including paralegal training and a long career in education, that interest never disappeared. After spending 15 years in education, she found herself ready for a change. “It was one of those life moments where I knew it was time for a new chapter,” she says.
While exploring options, Jill discovered the online Master of Legal Studies program at Seattle University, a program that stood out for its flexibility and accessibility. With no required on-campus residency, she could pursue her degree from anywhere, making it possible to take that next step without putting her life on hold. “That flexibility made all the difference,” Jill says. “It’s what allowed me to even consider going back to school.”
Taking the Leap, On Your Own Timeline
Like many prospective students, Jill initially faced uncertainty about returning to school. “There’s always that self-doubt—can I do this? Can I keep up?” she says. But she quickly realized those concerns are common, and often temporary.
“Most of the challenges were internal,” Jill explains. “Once you start, you realize you’re capable.” Her advice to others considering the MLS? “If you’re accepted into the program, that means you’re ready. Trust that, and take the leap.” Her experience reinforces a key takeaway for prospective students: there’s no ‘perfect’ time to go back to school—only the time that’s right for you.
Courses That Build Real-World Compliance Skills
Throughout the program, Jill found herself drawn to courses that aligned with her interests in compliance, investigations, and governance. One of the most impactful courses was Organizational Investigations, taught by Professor Frank DeMarino, which provided practical skills she now uses daily. “It reinforced the importance of slowing down, analyzing every angle, and really understanding the full picture,” she says.
She also highlights Professor Melissa Racki as a standout instructor. “She’s incredibly consistent, approachable, and knowledgeable,” Jill says. “Her classes really set you up for success.”
These courses helped Jill build critical, real-world skills, including:
- Legal research and writing
- Investigative techniques
- Regulatory analysis
- Risk assessment and compliance strategy
Growing Through Challenges
Some of Jill’s most valuable experiences came from courses that pushed her outside her comfort zone. An IT compliance course, for example, proved to be one of the most challenging but also one of the most rewarding. “I felt completely out of my element,” she says. “It was like learning a new language.”
Despite the difficulty, Jill persevered and succeeded. “That experience taught me that growth often comes from the moments that feel the hardest,” she says.
Making Online Learning Work
The flexibility of the online MLS program played a key role in Jill’s success. She created a structured routine to stay on track, dedicating specific days to reading and assignments, to complete coursework by the end of each week. “It was all about consistency and planning,” she explains.
While she notes that online learning can make it harder to build connections with classmates, group projects and shared courses helped foster collaboration along the way. Ultimately, the online format made the program accessible in a way that traditional in-person options could not. “If it hadn’t been online, I wouldn’t have been able to do it,” Jill says.
From MLS Graduate to Compliance Leader
Jill’s MLS degree quickly translated into career advancement. After completing the program, she began working as a Title IX investigator at Eastern New Mexico University, an opportunity she credits directly to the skills and knowledge she gained through her coursework.
She has since advanced to her current role as Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance, where she oversees compliance efforts for an entire athletic department and supports approximately 400 student-athletes.
Her day-to-day work includes:
- Interpreting and applying NCAA regulations
- Educating coaches and staff on compliance requirements
- Monitoring institutional policies and procedures
Preventing violations through proactive oversight
“My role is really about education and prevention,” she says. “It’s making sure everyone understands the rules and why they matter.”
Advice for Future Students
For anyone considering a Master of Legal Studies degree, Jill keeps her advice simple: Go for it. “You’ll surprise yourself,” she says. “If you’re willing to put in the work, you can do it.”
She also emphasizes the importance of flexibility. While some students aim to complete the program on an accelerated timeline, the ability to adjust pacing can make a big difference. “Give yourself grace,” Jill says. “There’s no one way to do it.”
Looking Ahead
Jill plans to continue building her career in sports compliance and risk management, with hopes of eventually teaching and mentoring others entering the field. Her journey is a reminder that career growth doesn’t follow a fixed path and that it’s always possible to take a new direction.
As she puts it, drawing from one of her favorite quotes:
“You can never be overdressed or over-educated.” — Oscar Wilde
For Jill, pursuing her MLS wasn’t just about earning a degree; it was about opening the door to new opportunities, new challenges, and a career she’s truly passionate about.
