Motivation in becoming a lawyer
Hometown: Potomac, MD
Education: University of Maryland, Interdisciplinary Studies
Job: Associate, Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor
Program: Full-Time Day
When I was 15 years old, I was expelled from high school and arrested/charged for posting an innocuous Tweet that was taken out of context. My entire life was flipped upside down. That incident would have devastated my future if I did not have lawyers who listened and fought for me. The rest is history.
Experiential learning
I interned at PDAP (Public Defenders Association of Pennsylvania) and participated in the City Solicitor Tort Litigation Unit Clinical program. These experiences gave me first-hand knowledge of the power of using a law degree to help people’s lives in meaningful ways.
Participation and leadership
I was the President of APALSA and Secretary of IPLS during the 2022-23 academic year. If I could describe how these roles shaped my law school experience in one word, it would be “community.” Law school is already difficult enough. Many people, including myself, tend to be hard on themselves. Being in a community where every member is experiencing the same difficulties and supporting each other makes it easier to push through.
Faculty impact
Professor Jules Epstein and Dean Bretschneider. I don’t know if I would have made it through law school without their support and mentorship. But, of course, they would likely tell me otherwise. Everyone needs a mentor who can also be a friend when necessary. I was fortunate enough to have two.
Advice to current or prospective students
Continue any hobbies that you had before law school. Law school can easily consume your entire life–but only if you let it. For most people, again, including myself, taking time to do the things you love increases your overall academic performance by reducing the risk of burnout. Take care of yourself.