Majored in Political Science at the University of Kansas
Areas of Interest
Advocacy, Pro Bono, Public Interest, Contracts, and Immigration
Law School Activities
SBA 3L Class Representative, Mock Trial Board, Mock Trial Team, National Moot Court Team, Honors Pro Bono Program
Why did you decide to attend law school? And more specifically UMKC?
I chose to attend law school so that I can make a difference in the lives around me. My undergraduate degree showed me areas of our society where people need representation, and my hope is I can apply my ethics within the law to promote a recognition of moral justice. I chose UMKC because my interactions with alumni showed me that UMKC is a place where unique perspectives of the law will be fostered, instead of rigid and mechanical application. I have not been disappointed with the way justice has been framed here, and by being presented a multitude of differing views, you begin to build a legal philosophy that fits you.
What has been the biggest challenge as a law student?
Time management. Managing your time effectively is critical to every aspect of the legal journey. Whether that means being prepared for class, completing assignments by their due date, or billing hours at a firm, time is always of the essence. It's been a process figuring out how to manage my time better and a large part of that also comes down to simply better organization skills. Learning how to work quickly, with accuracy, is foundational for success.
What are your interests outside of law school?
Soccer Refereeing, Crokinole, Art Fairs, Building Keyboards, Literature, Collecting Cards
What is one piece of advice you would give to future law students?
Be friendly, helpful, and truthful to the people around you, including yourself. Lawyering is an incredibly small professional field, and you might be working with or against the people you are going to school with until you retire. Law school is not the hyper competitive fend for yourself environment that many people describe it as. I have found that supporting those around you results in those around you supporting you. One approach to measuring your success is through your academics and internships; however, the better measure for success is through the people genuinely happy for your accomplishments.
