Matthew Oyster always strives to “be better than good enough.” In Oyster’s fast-paced legal career at the intersection of government and the gaming industry, that means being detail-oriented, analytical, hardworking and driven.
Oyster is general counsel and director of licensing and investigations for the Ohio Casino Control Commission. His wide-ranging responsibilities include aiding in legislative, regulatory and contract drafting and review; issuing opinions on matters of legal interpretation and rule of law; and overseeing the investigations of those seeking to receive or maintain casino-gaming and fantasy-contest licenses.
As far back as Oyster can remember, he wanted to be an attorney. “I’ve always held deep admiration and respect for those who serve others through this noble profession,” he says. “Among other things, practitioners are able to aid the indigent, represent the government, and protect the rights and liberties of the American people.”
However, Oyster wasn’t sure which law school would be best for him. During an undergraduate internship, he worked with an Ohio attorney who advised him that ONU Law catered to law students who wanted to be practice ready right out of the gate.
Heeding his advice, Oyster enrolled at Northern, where he discovered a robust curriculum that emphasized practical training. He participated in Law Review and Moot Court, and served as an assistant and coach for the undergraduate mock trial program. He also completed a judicial externship with former Ohio Supreme Court Justice Evelyn Lundberg Stratton.
“ONU Law made so many opportunities available to me, and for that I am grateful,” he says. “The curriculum stretches beyond bar prep and theoretical principles. It emphasizes not just learning about the law, but understanding and applying the law.”