Finding My Place at the University of Wyoming

Being involved in activities outside of classes has helped me find my place at the University of Wyoming. The people I’ve met here have turned into lifelong friends!

 

I’ve been volunteering with the College of Law Family and Child Legal Advocacy Clinic for the past year, mainly translating, and I was recently hired to start as their 2L legal assistant after this semester. I am the secretary of John Burman Student Government; and as the fundraising chair of Equal Justice, I am in charge of all the law school merchandise. I also have a job as a contract paralegal working with immigration attorneys focused on humanitarian visas.

 

My upbringing as an immigrant, by immigrant parents, has come with a lot of challenge and has vastly shaped where I want to go with my career. It gave me the heart I have now for advocating for minorities and the marginalized.

 

I chose UW because my family is in Colorado. I wanted to stay close to them but also venture out on my own. The class sizes, cost and location were what ultimately helped me choose UW.

 

My education means everything to me, because it will allow me to make a difference in something I am passionate about. This isn’t going to be easy, but I believe if it is what you want, it is doable. Dean Hoyt and Dona Playton have been a great support team and mentors!

 

I found a passion in helping my community through immigration law. The level of gratitude I get from people I help is equally humbling and fulfilling.

 

When I started law school, I had my mind set on becoming an immigration attorney. I still want to eventually practice immigration and international law, working for the government abroad. However, now I have decided after graduating, I will begin the process to become a JAG (Judge Advocate General’s Corps) officer. I haven’t decided what branch of the military yet, but this summer I will be doing an Air Force JAG Corps externship, and that will help me make that choice.

 

Favorite moments:

I balance law school with cooking and hiking. From 30 minutes to an hour, I enjoy anything outdoors with my dogs—and in Laramie, we have a lot of great options.

 

Advice for incoming law students:

Don’t get lost in comparing yourself with your peers. The way everyone around you is learning might not work for you, and that’s perfectly okay. Keep in mind when it comes to classes that you aren’t only taking the subject but you're also taking that professor, so go to office hours and ask for guidance. They will help you get there.