top of page

Entering the University of Michigan I held some vague idea of committing myself to the study of politics. The various topics of political science excited me and I subsequently absorbed ideas about game theory, media influence on elections, and the splintering of central Europe. There was so much to learn, yet seemingly without a purpose or common thread. After a few semesters, it was actually a women studies course that began to string everything together. I found that what interests me most about politics is the power of policy and social progress to change lives. The thread of public service led me to new opportunities and to refine my future goals, and now it leads me to pursue a law degree.

 

A graduate student instructor for that women’s studies course warned us on the first day that the ideas discussed during the semester would begin to change the way we saw the world.  Slowly, concepts from early feminist theory, gender studies, and black feminism started to permeate what I saw on the street, in commercials, and on the news. I discovered a new toolbox to tackle and examine the pertinent political issues of the day, and I realized how much these issues would benefit from a diverse and inclusive perspective. The semester of women’s studies led straight into a selective program in Washington DC, where I had incredible opportunities to broaden my educational experience.

 

In the months I spent in DC, I attempted to learn from as many people as possible: learn about policy problems and solutions, the intricacies of the field and culture, and how these talented and inspiring people got to where I found them. I was selected for an internship at the Center for American Progress (CAP), a think tank where I not only gained invaluable experience, but also had the opportunity to interact with women contributing to all areas of policy. At CAP, I worked on a subject that I’m passionate about, women’s reproductive rights. I have always enjoyed writing and researching, and now I was able to do this with a clear mission and for eyes beyond the classroom. I found it exhilarating to, even in a small way, be a part of an idea and help put it out into the world. This work was a real life application of what I had learned back in Ann Arbor about the universality of women’s rights and the necessity of having diverse perspectives in the room.

 

I am drawn to the world of public service and want to add my voice to areas of public interest law and domestic policy, especially those concerning women’s rights and underserved populations. I also know I can best serve with a legal education. Beyond the benefits of a knowledge of the law, the analytical skills gained in law school are invaluable. The reasoning and weighing of arguments is a crucial part of pragmatic decision making in policy work. I believe Georgetown University Law Center would provide me with this education to succeed. The strong commitment to public interest law is evident through the Public Interest Fellows Program and multiple career fairs dedicated to government and public sector jobs. The school also has the incredible advantage of being in the center of American politics and policy, with unparalleled connections to the city and its institutions. The opportunities available at Georgetown would enrich my legal education, and I know I could take full advantage of them and in turn positively contribute to the school. Georgetown is my first choice for law school and I believe it is the best next step for me as I continue to pursue a life working for the public interest and progressive change.

Personal Statement

bottom of page