Matthew Graham, a Thomas Johnson High graduate and former Fredericktonian, recently went viral on several platforms for his heart-tugging reaction to passing the bar exam.
Now residing in Baltimore and a graduate of University of Baltimore School of Law, Matthew’s record-breaking score sent waves throughout the the digital realm with thousands of shares and likes. Graham was written about in national publications like Essence magazine and the Washington Post leading all the way to daytime television. Good Morning America shared the video along with his impressive 309 score as well as Sherri. Interviewed by Sherri Shepard on her latest talk show, Graham details his journey to becoming an attorney. He has since been interviewed and featured in a number of publications. Matthew Kobby Graham, Esquire was sworn in on May 25, 2023. Check out the Youtube clip and read his words below.
I am pleased to announce that, on my first attempt, I have PASSED THE MARYLAND BAR EXAM with a score high enough to practice in any Uniform Bar Exam jurisdiction in the Country! (309!!!) I thank God for my testimony. I graduated from law school in December 2022, one semester early from my scheduled graduation date of May 2023. By doing so, I had to prepare for the February Bar Exam rather than the July Bar which is typically taken after graduating from law school on the normal schedule. 9 weeks of studying, 500 hours, 14 subjects of law to learn, 8 essays on day 1 of the exam, 200 Multiple choice questions on day 2. 40% February Bar Exam Pass Rate. All of this, staring me in the face. I was fighting to keep it together both mentally and physically. God did something interesting though. On February 21, 2023, I walked into the examination room. It was a familiar space. Out of the hundreds of conference rooms, ballrooms and event spaces in Maryland, I took the Bar Exam under the same chandelier, in the same ballroom, that my wife and I said “I do” under on May 29, 2021. At this moment, I realized that God was showing me that I was not alone. My family was there with me. It gave me confidence and belief. I knew at that time that I had the strength to push through. To my wife and daughter, I love you. You were my motivation and strength during this process. I promise that I will do my best to continue to lead our family. To family and friends, thank you for the continued love and support. This is just the beginning. I will continue to strive for greatness. Sincerely, Matthew Kobby Graham, ESQUIRE