How I decided to study law
At the start of college, like many other students I had doubts on what career I wished to pursue. Law had always been a focus of mine, being interested in politics and government at a young age. I always knew I wanted to do something that would benefit others directly or indirectly, whether it be through social justice, community building, government work etc. Lawyers have the ability to help others and are given opportunities to change society through diverse practices and cases, which is exactly why I wish to pursue a legal education. I want to attend Hofstra University Maurice A. Deane School of Law because of their devotion to advancing justice and serving societies changing needs as well as serving a diverse student body, which is something I value in an institution as a first generation college student and Latina woman.
As mentioned earlier, a lawyers ability to help others and to change society is what made me what to pursue a legal education. Through my internships at the Queens District Attorney’s Office and Senator Charles E. Schumer’s office, I saw first hand what change looks like. One of my most memorable experiences was at the Queens DA office where I witnessed juvenile proceedings. These cases were unique, as the prosecution, defense, and judge all sat at one table to come to a reasonable solution for the young defendant. The committee of legal representation would take into account school records, drug tests, as well as the individual’s personal and home life. Witnessing the efforts of both parties to conduct this court proceeding came to me as a surprise. I always thought that the defense and prosecution were working against each other, but these cases were different. Neither side wanted to see youthful offenders lost in our legal system. They were changing the system for the better. I watched these proceedings every week, eager to learn more, which I believe is one of my greatest strengths. My eagerness to learn and to continue learning stems from my elementary school experience of being bullied for a speech impediment which caused delays in speech, and my writing and reading capabilities. I saw a speech pathologist everyday during school which added to the bullying I faced. However even as a young student I didn’t let these kids get the better of me. Reading out loud everyday gave me the confidence I needed and the strength to overcome the speech impediment. At the end of it all, I was actually above my grade level in reading and writing. Knowing at a young age, what I was capable of doing if I put my mind to it, set the path for the rest of my academic and personal experiences. My experience with bullying ignited a fire inside me that drew me towards public service and towards the promotion of justice. I have always had a keen interest in the public sector and bettering the lives of people within my community. Through my internships I was able to see first hand what working in the public sector was like. I hope to continue this work throughout my legal studies at the various clinics and externship opportunities Hofstra University Maurice A. Deane School of Law provides.